Posted to News on 8th Jul 2012, 16:44
PC software replaces multi-axis motion controllers and PLCs
Motion Control Products is introducing the SPiiPlusSC soft controller, an EtherCAT-based software control platform that turns standard PCs into powerful multi-axis machine controllers using software alone.
The SPiiPlusSC soft controller enables standard PCs to run a 64-axis real-time motion controller and high-speed PLC entirely in software. The advanced soft controller simplifies the connectivity of the entire motion control system by eliminating dedicated controller hardware as well as Windows dependence and latency.
SPiiPlusSC automatically installs the real-time operating system and converts a standard Ethernet port into the EtherCAT master communication channel to manage all machine drives and I/O. It communicates with the host application via simultaneous virtual TCP/IP and direct memory access channels, providing superior throughput.
Steve McKay, the managing director of Motion Control Products, says: "The PC-based SPiiPlus-SC Soft Controller platform is the world's most powerful EtherCAT motion and machine controller that also minimises costs for semiconductor, HDD, biomedical, PV equipment and LED manufacturers. The SPiiPlus-SC leverages the processing power of the modern PC and the connectivity of a real-time open industrial Ethernet network to provide a cost-effective replacement for dedicated motion controllers."
There are two versions of the SPiiPlus-SC available: the SPiiPlusSC-HP for complex and performance-demanding applications with up to 64 axes; and the SPiiPlusSC-LT, an economical version that addresses the needs of cost-sensitive applications with one to eight axes. Both versions provide the same servo and motion performance, and are cost-effective when compared with alternatives that require a dedicated controller unit.
The controller is complemented by a full line of EtherCAT motor drives and I/O modules that can provide thousands I/O points. In addition, the open architecture can support ACS and other vendors' qualified EtherCAT components. Programming in both PLCopen IEC 61131-3 languages and the ACSPL+ powerful multi-tasking motion language is fully supported. Full API libraries are also included for Windows-based host programming. A full controller simulator allows the user to develop the motion application and front end without any hardware.
For more information about the SPiiPlusSC soft controller, go to www.motioncontrolproducts.com.
