Aerotech (www.aerotech.com) has expanded its Ensemble portfolio of advanced multi-axis motion controllers with the addition of its latest Epaq MR Series. Featuring a selection of up to eight micro-stepping drives or servo fitted in a 19-inch 3U rack, the newcomer comes complete with connectors and power supplies for feedback, motor power and expandable machine I/O.

The Epaq MR offers multitasking programming for five separate tasks of synchronized multi-axis motion as well as I/O with circular and linear interpolation, velocity profiling, electronic gearbox and contouring functions. Data capture and I/O triggered ‘on-the-fly’ position registration functions are also included as a single-axis implementation of the company’s innovative Position Synchronized Output (PSO), where laser power control and axis position and other external events are coordinated tightly.

The new Ensemble Epaq MR supports technologies such as linear stage and PWM servo amplifiers for brushless and brushed motors, and micro-stepping drives.

Each axis of the Epaq MR features servo feedback that includes primary and secondary encoders. It also offers a selection of 4096 or 65636 multiplication factors to offer the connected mechanical system with positioning resolution ranging from micron- to nano-level. Every drive features a complement of I/O that comes with an optional expansion card for additional analogue and digital I/O.

Specifically designed with Integrated Development Environment (IDE) software platform, the Epaq MR seamlessly blends simplicity with adaptability through optional software modules.

The Ensemble range of motion controllers also features a remote ASCII interface for non-Windows (including Linux) or Windows programs, enabling external command via the standard Ethernet port.