VELMEX VXM-1 - User Manual

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This information is for the end user of Velmex VXM Stepping Motor Controllers.

The end user should read this document and retain it for future reference.

Important User Information

Warranty

Stepping Motor Controllers manufactured by Velmex are warranted to be free from

defects for a period of two (2) years on all parts. Velmex's obligation under this

warranty does not apply to defects due, directly or indirectly, to misuse, abuse,

negligence, accidents, or unauthorized repairs, alterations, or cables/connectors that

require replacement due to wear. Claims must be authorized, and a return

authorization number issued before a product can be returned.

The warranty does not cover items which are not manufactured or constructed by

Velmex, Inc. These components are warranted by their respective manufacturer.

Under the above warranty, Velmex will, at its option, either repair or replace a

nonconforming or defective product.

The above warranty is the only warranty authorized by Velmex. Velmex shall in no

event be responsible for any loss of business or profits, downtime or delay, labor,

repair, or material costs, injury to person or property or any similar or dissimilar

incidental or consequential loss or damage incurred by purchaser, even if Velmex has

been advised of the possibility of such losses or damages.

Inasmuch as Velmex does not undertake to evaluate the suitability of any Velmex

product for any particular application, the purchaser is expected to understand the

operational characteristics of the product, as suggested in documentation supplied by

Velmex, and to assess the suitability of Velmex products for this application.

This limited warranty give you specific legal rights which vary from State to State.

By Phone: 585-657-6151 and 800-642-6446

By Fax: 585-657-6153

Email: info@velmex.com

On the Internet: www.velmex.com and www.bislide.com

By mail: Velmex, Inc.

7550 State Route 5 & 20

Bloomfield, NY 14469 USA

other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Contact Information

Document # VXM-UM-E2 7-29-03

VXM Stepping Motor Controller User’s Manual

VXM

Stepping Motor Controller

This Manual explains the general and advanced operation of the VXM-1, VXM-2, VXM-

3, and VXM-4 stepping motor controllers.

Also included on the CDROM:

1. COSMOS utility/controller software (A user friendly Windows program for easy

setup, testing, and programming of VXM controllers)

2. Software examples and software drivers

User’s Manual

(Extended Version)

Models VXM-1,2,3,4

Record Controller and Motor information here for future reference:

Model#: VXM-

Serial #:

Motor #1 Motor #2

Motor #3 Motor #4

Notes:

Document # VXM-UM-E2 7-29-03

Main Page

Need help?

Do you have a question about the VELMEX VXM-1 and is the answer not in the manual?

The Velmex VXM Stepping Motor Controller is a high-performance, advanced design device for controlling stepping motors. It offers high reliability and consistent performance through several key design features.

Function Description:

The VXM controller digitally controls motor phase switching and all interface functions using a single-chip microcontroller, eliminating noise-sensitive step and direction translation circuitry. Pulse width modulated timing is preset by the MCU, removing error-prone analog feedback circuits. It features a regulated power supply with a 100 to 240VAC input range, ensuring consistent motor output torque. The device includes 4X oversized motor drives for extended life and overload tolerance. A single VXM can accept and execute commands for operating up to four motors. It functions as a complete controller, indexer, driver, and AC power supply with an RS-232 interface. The modulated current control drive reduces low-speed vibration compared to typical 400 step/rev controllers. User programs can be stored in nonvolatile memory. The included external desktop-type power supply is UL, CE, CSA, and TUV safety agency compliant.

The VXM is available in one and two-motor versions, with three and four-motor capability achieved by linking two controllers via the VXM bus. It is backward compatible with Velmex NF90 and VP9000 Step Motor controllers. The device offers user-programmable inputs and outputs, including a 10-bit analog input for external sensors, speed setting, or analog joystick control. It can run 6 or 8-lead permanent magnet step motors rated from 0.4 to 4.7 amps. Front panel buttons are provided for Jog, Run, and Stop functions. The VXM can be used interactively with a PC or run standalone. It features optically isolated limit switch inputs and user-resettable circuit breaker protection. Motor power and motor model selection are software settable. The energy-saving design automatically de-energizes motors at a standstill, consuming only 1.4 watts. It includes a FIFO buffer to capture motor positions on an external trigger and special commands for matrix/array patterns and pick-and-place applications. Coordinated motion with two VXMs is possible, as are complex motion profiles with "continuous index mode."

Important Technical Specifications:

Physical:
- Weight (VXM-1): 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg)
- Weight (VXM-2): 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg)
- Height: 3.27" (83 mm)
- Width: 4.37" (111 mm)
- Length: 6.89" (175 mm)
AC Power Supply:
- Weight: 1.0 lbs (0.45 kg)
- Height: 1.57" (40 mm)
- Width: 2.72" (69 mm)
- Length: 5.14" (131 mm)
Electrical Requirements:
- AC Power Supply: 100-240VAC 2A 50-60Hz
- VXM Controller: 24VDC 2.5A
Environmental:
- Operating Temperature: 35°-95° F (2°-35° C)
- Relative Humidity: 10%-90% (non-condensing)
RS-232 Port Configuration: 8 Data, No Parity, 1 Stop, 9600 baud rate default.
Motor Compatibility: Size 17 to size 34 (0.4 to 4.7 amp) permanent magnet step motors (6 or 8 wire unipolar), rated at a unipolar per phase current of 0.4 to 4.7 Amps.
Steps/Revolution: 400
Speed Range: 1 to 6000 steps/sec
Program Storage: 5 (RAM/FLASH) programs, each up to 256 bytes.
User Inputs/Outputs: All User I/O inputs and outputs are TTL levels (0 to +5VDC). Inputs have resistive pull-ups and are activated by connecting to 0V. Outputs are normally low and can sink and source 20 mA max. Limit switch inputs are optically isolated, operating on 24VDC.

Usage Features:

Communication: Programming is done by sending ASCII commands via the RS-232 interface, using Velmex COSMOS software, HyperTerminal, VisualBASIC, C, or LabVIEW. Commands are case-sensitive.
Operating Modes:
- On-Line Mode: For programming and interactive control, enabled by sending "E" (echo on) or "F" (echo off). Jog inputs are disabled in this mode.
- Local/Jog Mode: Allows manual jogging of motors using front panel buttons or an optional digital joystick. Motors can be jogged a single step or slewed up to 2000 sps.
- Stand-alone Mode: Programs can be downloaded and permanently saved using the "rsm" command, allowing the VXM to operate without a host computer. Programs are started via the front panel Run button or the Run input on the I/O connector.
Linking VXMs: Two VXM controls can be linked via the VXM bus for 3 or 4 motor operation, with all programs residing in one Master VXM.
Units & Directions: Step units are 1/400 of a motor revolution. Speed is in Steps/Second (SPS). Acceleration values (1 to 127) are relative to steps/sec². Direction is relative to the device (e.g., positive is away from the motor for screw drives, CCW for rotary tables).
Motor Control: Incremental and Absolute Index commands allow precise positioning. Speed (SmMx, SAmMx) and acceleration/deceleration (AmMx) can be set.
Program Management: Up to 5 programs (0-4) can be selected, cleared, and managed.
Looping/Branching: Commands like LO, LMO, Lx, Jx, and JMx enable complex program flow, including continuous loops, loops with alternating directions, and jumps between programs.
Pausing and I/O: Programs can be paused for specified durations (Px, PAx). User inputs (U0, U1) can be waited for, and user outputs (U4, U5) can be controlled.
Trigger Outputs: Pulses can be produced at exact positions using Continuous Indexing (U7, U8) or by setting "Pulse Every n Steps" (setPmMx).
Position Capture: Motor positions can be read while moving (X, Y commands) or captured on an external trigger ("!" command or Input 4 pulse) for later retrieval.
Precision Features: Limit switches can be used to establish a home position (ImM0, ImM-0). Backlash compensation (Bx) improves accuracy by compensating for mechanical lost motion. The VXM can indicate limit switch over-travel (Ox) to the host.
Advanced Features: Complex motion profiles and coordinated motion are supported, including simultaneous operation of motors on linked VXMs.

Maintenance Features:

Warranty: Velmex warrants stepping motor controllers for two years against defects. The warranty does not cover misuse, abuse, negligence, accidents, unauthorized repairs, alterations, or wear-related cable/connector replacements.
Troubleshooting: A comprehensive troubleshooting guide is provided for common issues like power problems, motor stalling, erratic movement, and communication errors.
Setup: The VXM must be set to the exact motor model/type before operation to prevent severe damage. COSMOS software is recommended for configuration.
Safety:
- Controller and AC power supply should operate in a well-ventilated area.
- Do not use in wet, dirty, or explosive environments.
- Repackaging into a NEMA grade enclosure is required for industrial environments.
- Do not disconnect motors while running.
- Keep Motor and Limit cables a minimum of 2" apart.
- Only operate with designated motors; do not alter cables without consulting Velmex.
- Motors get hot when running and must be mounted to a metal surface for heat dissipation.
- Do not remove covers on power supply or controller; there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Servicing must be done by Velmex qualified personnel.
- Optically isolated relays should be used on all user I/Os for long-term reliable operation.
- Do not directly connect a VXM I/O to an inductive load or any device not within 10 feet of the VXM or not powered at the same AC source.
- Follow ESD guidelines: provide shortest conductive path to earth ground, use metal panels/enclosures, use shielded cables, and use VXM Auxiliary I/O connector shell for earth ground if no other is available.

VELMEX VXM-1 Specifications

General

Brand	VELMEX
Model	VXM-1
Category	Controller
Language	English