Servo motor systems are expensive but great for demanding applications that require high speed, peak torque, or feedback. Stepper motors are cost-effective but do not offer the peace of mind of feedback. For designs that do not need the bells and whistles of servo motor systems, there is another option.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Robotics, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, Servo Motors, Network
In this post, we introduce a real-world SCARA and cartesian/gantry robot example of in-house automation built using our AlphaStep AZ Series family of motors, actuators, drivers, and our 4-axis robot controller.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Robotics, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, Software, Rotary/Index Tables, Case Study
Modular automation is the next phase of factory automation where the same production line is separated into modules and can quickly reconfigure itself to serve different needs. We're ready for this trend. Are you?
Topics: Stepper Motors, Robotics, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, Speed Control, VIDEOS, BLDC Motors, Application Examples
The best motor is the one that meets the application requirements. However, when both servo motors and stepper motors satisfy the basic requirements of a positioning application, it's important to have a deeper understanding of the two technologies to make an informed decision.
In this blog post, we will summarize the differences between servo motor systems and stepper motor systems.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Servo Motors, Network, Service Life
In this blog post, I will explain how to easily program a timed pressing operation with our MEXE02 universal product support software. This example works for any products included in the AlphaStep AZ Series family, which also includes other series that use the same technology and software.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, VIDEOS, Software, Application Examples, Motion Control Basics
Proper grounding is necessary for electrical devices for different reasons, but why do we do it?
Topics: AC Motors, Stepper Motors, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, BLDC Motors, Servo Motors, Cooling Fans, Motion Control Basics
No matter how many functions a product offers, without an intuitive, easy-to-use software, those functions can be difficult to implement.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, VIDEOS, Software, Application Examples, Motion Control Basics
Remember the days when we used to go to in-person events, such as trade shows? Robot demos have always generated a lot of foot traffic in booths. What's better to illustrate the synchronism of closed-loop stepper motors than 3 motors working together to create one specific motion?
Topics: Stepper Motors, Robotics, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, VIDEOS, Gearheads, Network, Application Examples
STO, or "Safe Torque Off", is a dedicated, built-in safety circuit function that makes safety easier to manage for motion devices, such as an industrial robot. It is part of the overall safety system.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Absolute Positioning, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators
For automated factories, motor failures mean lost production and lost revenue. Being able to identify the specific issue in advance and its location is critical to maintaining production efficiency. To be successful, extra sensors must be added to detect abnormalities. There may be an easier way.
Topics: Stepper Motors, Alphastep Hybrid Control, Linear & Rotary Actuators, VIDEOS, Network, Application Examples, Troubleshooting