Indexer Application Pictures

Features:

Features:

1) Controls up to Seven Simultaneous Axes: Motors can be controlled individually, or simultaneously. Multiple axes slave to an automatically assigned dominant axis for "best fit" proportional contouring. Rapid traversal may include multiple axes. Automatic Vector Speed Modulation "Feed" rates are continuously modulated to seek consistent combined vector speed. In cutting applications this means that it automatically adjusts each axis to maintain consistent speed across the surface of the work.

2) Smooth "n" Deep Look-Ahead Contouring: When traversing a contour in up to seven dimensions, applied stress due to changes in direction is anticipated and the speed is modulated in enough time to avoid over-stress at every transition point. What is meant by "n" deep is that Indexer LPT will look ahead through as many transition points as necessary to avoid over-stress, and decelerate through as many interpolations as necessary in order to negotiate each transition as close to vector rate as possible. Indexer LPT only needs to be set up with a stress factor, which it applies against each transition based upon the angle of divergence and the speed of entry.

3) Exceptionally smooth motion over complex paths: Exceptionally smooth motion over complex paths: Smooth motion improves the quality of manufactured parts. Unlike controllers that are not as smooth, the power of the motor and drive does not have to be over-sized to compensate for erratic speed control, making Indexer LPT controlled machines both more desirable AND economical.

4) On-the-Fly Vector Speed Control: The vector speed of a complex contour can be modulated (increased and decreased while the motors are moving) from within the execution of a complex contour.

5) Feed Rate Override: An optional external potentiometer permits the speed of motion to be instantly and smoothly adjusted. Alternately, a 0-5 Volt signal can be applied for adaptive feedback.

6) Input Sensing: High and low limit switch input sensing automatically terminates motion when contact is made in the associated direction - but permits motion in the opposite direction, thereby avoiding lock up condition on start-up, common in systems with shared limit sensing. Digital inputs are available for reading the status of things such as control switches and proximity sensors. A "soft" configurable switch scanning feature can read the status of up to forty eight (48) switches from a single parallel port!

7) Feed Hold: A special input can be configured to implement the "feed hold" feature. This feature allows a switch to be used to bring motion, even from within a complex contour, to a decelerated and controlled stop. All the while, position tracking is preserved. Releasing the "feed hold" input permits motion to proceed along the commanded path "as if" motion were not interrupted. Alternatively, the arrested motion command can be terminated, reverting back to the calling program for additional options.

8) Digital Output: Numerous signals are available for general purpose digital output, which can be used to control relays, annunciator lights or other types of electronics. Digital outputs can be programmed activate devices "on the fly", which is to say, while the motors are moving. This feature is important in devices that must be activated only after motion has accelerated to speed.

9) Joystick Jog: Up to four axes of motion can be controlled from a single (up/down/left/right) joystick in a single setup. Position tracking is preserved throughout. Joystick control is very robust, with no noticeable lag. Optional switches conveniently select between rapid (accelerated), instantaneous (constant speed) and burst (increment every 1/2 second), for very rapid and accurate positioning.

10) Simplified "Plain English" Commands: The command format for Indexer LPT is ASCII text, which is the same visible characters that can be generated within programs such as Notepad. The commands themselves are descriptive of the function that is performed, and thoroughly documented with examples in the users guide and distribution media.

11) Easyto Use Diagnostic Program Speeds Development: The Indexer LPT Diagnostic program provides a convenient method to exercise each command simply by typing it to a dialog box or pasting it from Notepad, and a live display of the inputs can be viewed from the screen. This program is especially handy in developing and troubleshooting automation hardware.

12) Use with CNC Application Programs from Ability Systems: G Code Controller and HPGL Controller are supported application programs, written by Ability Systems, that accommodate a variety of applications. These programs take advantage of the powerful features of Indexer LPT, are configured by means of setup dialogs, and require no specialized knowledge of computer programming.

13) Documented Programmer's Interface: Totally open architecture provides for the greatest amount of design flexibility. Since the application programmers interface is published and explained (with examples), using Indexer LPT from standard programming languages, such as BASIC, "C", Pascal (Delphi) etc. is quick and convenient. Automated manufacturing and test equipment, especially equipment that requires data collection along with motion control, are most suitable for application programming using a standard programming language with Indexer LPT.

14) Extraordinary Documentation and Support: The well organized, 205 page manual is available for downloading in PDF format. Theory, wiring diagrams and detailed instructions with examples comprehensively describes the product and its many features. Knowledgeable and courteous telephone support is also available during business hours.

15) Easily Connects to a Variety of Motor Drives: Point to point wiring is usually all that is necessary to control a large selection of motors and drives available from Ability Systems and elsewhere. Snap here to see a Typical Wiring Diagram for two axes from a single port. (Three ports, with similar wiring, can be used to control six axes).

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