Using the Manual C Control Pendant (MCP)

C.1 Manual Control Pendant Basics

Adept motion systems are designed to allow control of the robot or motion device from the Manual Control Pendant (MCP). Figure C-2 on page 128 shows how to hold the MCP. There are two versions of the MCP, the MCP III (also called MCP-3) and the MCP-4.

MCP Enable Switch Function on CAT-3 SmartController

When a CAT-3 SmartController system is operating in Auto Mode, the Enable Switch on the MCP has no effect on the operation. This means in the Auto mode, the Enable switch does not have to be pressed to enable High Power, and releasing the Enable switch while running will not turn off High Power. This is true for both the MCP-3 and MCP-4 models.

See Section 1.6 on page 21 for more information on the CAT-3 SmartController.

CAUTION: The new functionality of the MCP Enable switch in Auto Mode must be recognized by persons familiar with Adept systems, and working patterns and habits adjusted accordingly.

MCP III

The MCP III has a palm-activated enabling switch that is connected to the remote emergency stop circuitry of the controller. Whenever this switch is released, High Power is removed from the motion device. When the MCP is not being used, the operator must place it in the special cradle provided or remove it from the controller and install the pendant jumper plug. The cradle retaining clip will keep the enabling switch depressed when the pendant is not in use. Figure C-3 on page 128 shows how to place the pendant in its cradle.

To operate the MCP, put your left hand through the opening on the left-hand side of the pendant and use your left thumb to operate the pendant speed bars. Use your right hand for all the other function buttons. The various button groupings of the pendant are reviewed in this section.

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Nortech Systems RS-232/TERM, XUSR, RS-422/485, XSYS Using the Manual C Control Pendant MCP, Manual Control Pendant Basics
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RS-422/485, XSYS, XUSR, RS-232/TERM specifications

Nortech Systems offers a comprehensive suite of serial communication solutions, including RS-232/TERM, XUSR, XSYS, and RS-422/485 interfaces. These products are designed to facilitate reliable and high-speed data transmission in various industrial applications, making them essential for connecting devices in automation, telecommunications, and data acquisition systems.

The RS-232/TERM interface is a widely adopted standard for serial communication, known for its simplicity and robustness. It supports point-to-point communication over relatively short distances, typically up to 50 feet. Key features include a maximum baud rate of up to 115.2 kbps, error-checking capabilities, and a straightforward connection process, making it ideal for connecting peripheral devices like printers, modems, and barcode scanners.

Building on the RS-232 standard, the XUSR and XSYS devices offer enhanced functionalities and flexibility. XUSR, for instance, supports not just traditional RS-232 connections, but also protocol conversion for various serial interfaces, facilitating seamless integration of legacy systems with modern networking technologies. It is particularly useful in environments where multiple protocols need to be managed simultaneously.

XSYS is designed for more complex applications and supports advanced communication features such as multi-drop configurations, enabling it to connect multiple devices on a single bus. This makes it suitable for extensive industrial networks where space and wiring complexity need to be minimized. Synchronous and asynchronous data transfer modes ensure that the XSYS is adaptable for both real-time data collection and standard command-response applications.

On the other hand, RS-422/485 interfaces excel in long-distance communication, allowing for data transmission over distances up to 4,000 feet. They are designed for multi-point connections, supporting up to 32 devices on a single bus through differential signaling, which enhances noise immunity. These characteristics make RS-422/485 particularly well-suited for environments with electromagnetic interference, such as factories or subways.

Nortech Systems’ serial communication solutions emphasize reliability, ease of use, and versatility. With their commitment to high performance and user satisfaction, these interfaces provide critical connectivity in today’s increasingly automated and interconnected world. Whether in data centers, manufacturing setups, or remote sensor networks, Nortech's offerings stand out for their reliability, efficiency, and adaptability, ensuring effective data communication across diverse applications.
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