Creating Custom Software Interfaces

Galil provides programming tools so that users can develop their own custom software interfaces to a Galil controller. These tools include the ActiveX Toolkit and DMCWin.

ActiveX Toolkit

Galil's ActiveX Toolkit is useful for the programmer who wants to easily create a custom operator interface to a Galil controller. The ActiveX Toolkit includes a collection of ready-made ActiveX COM controls for use with Visual Basic, Visual C++, Delphi, LabVIEW and other ActiveX compatible programming tools. The most common environment is Visual Basic 6, but Visual Basic.NET, Visual C++, Wonderware, LabVIEW and HPVEE have all been tested by Galil to work with the .OCX controls.

The ActiveX Toolkit can be purchased from Galil at http://store.yahoo.com/galilmc/actoolsoffor.html

The ActiveX toolkit can save many hours of programming time. Built-in dialog boxes are provided for quick parameter setup, selection of color, size, location and text. The toolkit controls are easy to use and provide context sensitive help, making it ideal for even the novice programmer.

ActiveX Toolkit Includes:

•a terminal control for sending commands and editing programs

•a polling window for displaying responses from the controller such as position and speed

•a storage scope control for plotting real time trajectories such as position versus time or X versus Y

•a send file control for sending contour data or vector DMC files

•a continuous array capture control for data collection, and for teach and playback

•a graphical display control for monitoring a 2-D motion path

•a diagnostics control for capturing current configurations

•a display control for input and output status

•a vector motion control for tool offsets and corner speed control

For more detailed information on the ActiveX Toolkit, please refer to the user manual at

http://www.galilmc.com/support/manuals/activex.pdf.

DMCWin Programmers Toolkit

DMCWin is a programmer's toolkit for C/C++ and Visual Basic users. The toolkit includes header files for the Galil communications API, as well as source code and examples for developing Windows® programs that communicate to Galil Controllers. The Galil communications API includes functions to send commands, download programs, download/upload arrays, access the data record, etc. For a complete list of all the functions, refer to the DMCWin user manual at http://www.galilmc.com/support/manuals/dmcwin.pdf.

This software package is free for download and is available at http://www.galilmc.com/support/download.html.

Galil Communications API with C/C++

When programming in C/C++, the communications API can be used as included functions or through a class library. All Galil communications programs written in C must include the DMCCOM.H file and access the API functions through the declared routine calls. C++ programs can use the DMCCOM.H routines or use the class library defined in DMCWIN.H.

62 • Chapter 4 - Software Tools and Communications

DMC-1700/1800

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Galil DMC-1800, DMC-1700 user manual Creating Custom Software Interfaces, Galil Communications API with C/C++
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DMC-1800, DMC-1700 specifications

The Galil DMC-1700 and DMC-1800 are advanced motion controllers widely recognized for their high performance and versatility in the automation and robotics industries. These controllers are designed to meet the demands of complex motion control applications, providing users with enhanced features and innovative technologies that optimize motion precision and efficiency.

One of the main features of the Galil DMC-1700 is its ability to handle up to 8 axes of motion control. This capability makes it suitable for a range of applications, from simple point-to-point movements to intricate trajectories in multi-axis systems. In contrast, the DMC-1800 extends this functionality, supporting up to 64 axes, making it ideal for large-scale automation environments.

Both models leverage Galil's powerful programming interface, which simplifies the development of motion control applications. The DMC-1700 and DMC-1800 controllers utilize a high-level programming language that supports advanced motion commands, including linear interpolation, circular interpolation, and complex motion profiles. This feature allows users to implement sophisticated motion sequences seamlessly.

In terms of connectivity, the Galil DMC series offers multiple communication options, including Ethernet, RS-232, and CAN bus, ensuring compatibility with various hardware and enabling easy integration into existing systems. The controllers also come equipped with digital and analog I/O ports, providing flexibility for sensor feedback and actuator control.

The advanced technology incorporated into both the DMC-1700 and DMC-1800 includes on-board PID control, which ensures precise motion control through closed-loop feedback. This results in improved stability and accuracy, particularly in high-speed applications. Additionally, the controllers offer extensive diagnostics and monitoring capabilities, allowing for real-time performance analysis and troubleshooting.

Another notable characteristic of these motion controllers is their compact design, which offers space-saving advantages while maintaining high processing power. Their robust construction and ability to operate in challenging environments make them suitable for a wide range of industrial applications, from CNC machining to assembly lines.

In conclusion, the Galil DMC-1700 and DMC-1800 motion controllers stand out due to their high-performance capabilities, advanced programming features, and flexibility in connectivity. With their ability to handle complex motion control tasks efficiently, these controllers are invaluable tools for engineers and manufacturers looking to enhance their automation processes. By integrating Galil's innovative motion control technology, industries can achieve greater precision, speed, and reliability in their operational workflows.
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