PC-Based Motion Controller

PC-Based Motion Controller: Critical Requirements to Consider Today, many trends and consistency elements impact the controller selections businesses make when it comes to PC-based motion control systems. A computer is a widespread control device in manufacturing industries and processes, replacing PLC and the CNC in several industrial applications. It comprises software and hardware into a specific software package.

Thus, selecting a suitable controller for applications that require motion control for Windows is pretty simple. However, it is often hard to pick the right PC-based motion controller for applications involving discrete control, motion control, and human-machine interfaces (HMI). In order to obtain an ideal PC-based solution that meets functional needs, you must consider the following requirements.

1. Openness Firstly, you need to determine the level of openness that will work for your industrial applications since there is no universally documented definition for openness. An open soft motion control system will enable you to determine: 

An appropriate machine control programming language to use

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The ideal PC hardware

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Motion control devices

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Human-machine interface devices

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Input and output modules

If you select the correct level of openness, all the devices will work together seamlessly. Many manufacturers produce I/O device networks that run under most systems. Motion control for Windows software is the standard for the HumanMachine interface.

2. Economics Before deciding how to improve your PC hardware openness, you must consider economics. To choose an appropriate PC-based motion control system, you must consider hardware based on price, adaptability, microprocessor power, and packaging.

Microprocessor options can vary from 200 MHz Pentium to a 386 microprocessor.

You should select the microprocessor on the basis of operating system requirements, HMI needs, and the task your computer is set to perform.

The choices of PC hardware include commercial desktop versions and ruggedized industrial versions. An industrial PC will cost you more than the regular desktop model because it has several premium features.

Commercial PCs can operate more hardware and software packages. Small computers that contain solid-state hard drives are used in applications that have no ventilation or control cabinet cooling.

3. Ease of Use A Windows motion control system should be easy-to-use and flexible to allow instantaneous use of run-time control system debug tools and configuration setup software.

For instance, a simple PC can efficiently operate hardware-based motion controllers while processing a software-based control program.

4. Safety Before you plan to invest in a PC-based motion solution, ensure that it offers a reliable watchdog hardware output. Consider software watchdogs that can function between hardware motion control and software control carefully. Safety considerations enable motion controllers to perform an effortless shutdown if the PC CPU faces any issue.

It is in your hands to choose a suitable motion control for Windows that operates impeccably with your industrial applications. In order to make the correct choice for your organization, consider the factors above.