Posted to News on 7th May 2007, 14:51
Easy speed control for brushless DC motors
Maxon is launching the DEC 24/3 1-quadrant amplifier range for use with brushless DC motors. The ready-to-use open board is suitable for many drive tasks with its 5–24V operating voltage and maximum output power of 3A (intermittently up to 6A). Available in two variations, the controllers can be used directly with Maxon EC motors and maxon EC flat motors.
With its input voltage ranging from 5–24V, the DEC 24/3 can be used flexibly with various voltage sources, allowing operation as a digital speed controller and open-loop speed controller. The DEC 24/3 boasts an excellent control action thanks to digital signal processing.
The required operating mode can be quickly and easily selected using a DIP switch, and the speed value can be set via an integrated potentiometer or external reference value. In addition, the controller offers further setting options, with control inputs available for selecting motor direction, disable and braking. The required maximum power is set using a potentiometer. In continuous operation, the output current should reach 3A, and 100 per cent overload is permissible for intermittent acceleration. The robust controller design means that it can be easily and quickly put into operation.
Maxon's DEC 24/3's end stage is protected several times over. Under-voltage protection prevents uncontrolled operation, and blocking protection stops the motor current from going below the minimum speed for more than 1.5 seconds. An LED indicator clearly shows the motor's error functions or missing connections.
The compact board is cost-optimised for direct installation in all types of drive systems and requires very little space, even when used with flat motors where space is often limited.
