1-1

Part 1: Hardware Specifications
Note: A characteristic of
all motors is back EMF.
Back EMF is a source of
current that can push the
output of a power supply beyond
the maximum operating voltage
of the driver. As a result, damage
to the stepper driver could occur
over a period of time. Care should
be taken so that the back EMF
does not exceed the maximum
input voltage rating of the MForce
PowerDrive.
WARNING! The MForce
has components
which are sensitive to
Electrostatic Discharge
(ESD). All handling should be done
at an ESD protected workstation.
WARNING! Hazardous
voltage levels may be
present if using an open
frame power supply to
power your MForce product.
WARNING! Ensure that
the power supply output
voltage does not exceed
the maximum input
voltage of the MForce product that
you are using!
Getting Started

Microstepping MForce PowerDrive

Before You Begin

The Getting Started Section is designed to help quickly connect and begin using your Microstepping MForce
PowerDrive. The following examples will help you get a motor turning for the first time and introduce you to
the basic settings of the drive.

Tools and Equipment Required

Microstepping MForce PowerDrive Unit (MFM)
A NEMA 23 or 34 Size Stepping Motor
Control Device for Step/Direction
+5 to +24 VDC Optocoupler Supply (if using sinking output type)
An Unregulated +12 to +48VDC Power Supply
Basic Tools: Wire Cutters / Strippers / Screwdriver
Wire for Power Supply (18 AWG) and Motor (16 AWG)
22 AWG Wire for Logic Connections

Connecting the Power Supply

Using the recommended wire, connect the DC output of the power supply to the +V input of the connector
appropriate for your Microsteppi
ng MForce PowerDrive
model.
Connect the power supply ground to the Power Ground pin appropriate for your Microstepping MForce
PowerDrive.
Figure GS.1: Minimum Logic and Power Connections
P4
P3
P1
12-Pin Wire Crimp at P1 Shown.
See Specifications for Pin
Numbering for other versions.
ØA
ØB
ØA
ØB
MForce PowerDrive Front
Stepping Motor
Step
Direction
+V (+12 to +48)
Power Ground
Opto Reference*
1
1 2
3 4
3
2
46
* The Opto Reference Will
set the Sink/Source
Configuration of the Inputs
Sinking: OptoRef = +5 to +24 VDC
Sourcing: OptoRef = Ground