CONTROL UNIT PM10
Installation
The piezo translator of the unit PM10 has to be mounted with the enclosed holder to the motor driven
micromanipulator DC3/DC3-K. Further the control unit must be connected to the manipulator and the piezotranslator
with the two attached cables. The system is set to the supply voltage ∼115 or ∼230 volt, 50/60 Hz, as specified on the
rear panel. Before plugging in, check settings.
Basic Operation
!Read all the operating instructions in
particular the safety instructions at the end
of the operating instructions before installing
the s
y
stem.
!
!
The forward and backward movements of the three axes of the micromanipulator DC3/DC3-K are controlled by 6
keys. If a key is pressed for less than 0.3 seconds, only one step of the micromanipulator results. Stay pressing for
longer than 0.3 seconds a continuous movement succeeds to the step as long as the key is pressed. During the motor
is running no further step can be initiated. The first of the 6 keys, labelled 'PIEZO', activates the piezo function in
addition to the motor forward movement when used in the step mode. The step length can be set by 'STEP SIZE' from
0.5 to 10 µm, the continuous velocity by 'CONTINUOUS SPEED' from 0 to 150µm/s (reduction gear 900:1) and the
step velocity of the piezo forward movement 'PIEZO SPEED' from 1 to 100 mm/s. The settings of step length - 'STEP
SIZE'- and of the velocity of continuous movement - 'CONTINUOUS SPEED'- are the same for all three axes. The
velocity of the step movement (motor) cannot be modified externally. It is not possible to drive in more than one direc-
tion at any one time.
Piezo Mode
Pressing the key for X-forward direction briefly activates the piezo mode: The piezo translator moves forward very
rapidly with the selected 'PIEZO SPEED' and 'STEP SIZE'. Immediately after this step the piezo drive returns slowly
at constant speed to the starting position. Simultaneously the DC motor for this axis moves forward, completely and
accurately compensating the movement of the piezo drive. These piezo steps can be repeated as often as needed
providing they are within the range of the motor drive.
Adjustment of the Piezo Drive
The backward movement of the piezo drive and the forward movement of the motor drive are coordinated with the
grey pin on the backside of the unit. The compensation may change in time for several reasons: Ageing of
components, replacement of the manipulator or piezo translator or even different positions of the manipulator. For
readjustment use the potentiometer on the rear (grey pin): Select a step size of 10 µm and note the position of the
micrometry screw. Push the forward key 'PIEZO' several times and compare the step size with the scale on the
micrometry screw (1 mark = 10 µm). Adjust the potentiometer until one step equals one mark.
High Voltage Output
Pushing the 'PIEZO' key the output 'HIGH VOLTAGE' delivers a sawtooth pulse of up to 1000 volts, otherwise this
output is non alive. To prevent risk of electric shock and damage to the unit it must only be operated with the piezo
drive connected. Under no circumstances should any other devices be connected to this high voltage output or the
internal pin of the outlet 'HIGH VOLTAGE' be touched.
Backlash Compensation
This control unit has built-in electronics, to compensate the backlash of the gears. If the direction is changed, the
motor receives an extra current pulse, which corresponds to the backlash. This is very valuable in the step mode, as it
avoids 'missing steps' (motor turns, but no movement of the micro manipulator). On the bottom of the case there is
one adjusting screw for all three axes 'BACKLASH COMPENSATION'. Thus the backlash compensation can be
adapted to the manipulator individually.
Remote Control
There is a small 7- pin jack on the backside of the case to connect a remote control. The remote control is an optional
accessory and must be ordered separately.