Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are frequently too large for thousands of these basic automation jobs, such as adjusting the width of a stop edge or the height of a monitor. The alternatives from igus are the stepper motor output stages D7, D8 and D9 of the dryve series.

It does not always have to be a PLC to implement automation projects especially, when it comes to simple adjustments. The right choice can save money and effort. "Demand is correspondingly high for simple stepper motor output stages that are reliable, cost-effective and easy to operate - but at the same time flexible enough so they can work together with a modern PLC to expand the range of possibilities", explains Rene Erdmann, Head of Business Unit drylin E Electric Drive Technology at igus. "We have therefore extended our dryve series motor control systems to include the three output stages D7, D8 and D9 as well as other variants. Output stages are already available from €70."

Users only need to connect the voltage source, control signals and the motor to the output stage. And off you go: in the so-called JOG operating mode, a signal triggered by connected push-button initiates a counter-clockwise rotation, and a second signal ensures the clockwise rotation of the motor.

Low-vibration operation protects nerves and adjacent components

Not only is it quick and intuitive to install and control the new output stages, they are also quiet in operation. "At all speeds, the output stages operate exceptionally quietly and with low vibration thanks to high-quality electronic components", says Erdmann. Not a matter of course. "Many inferior output stages cause stepper motors to vibrate. The vibrations create annoying noises and can result in screws and other components in the vicinity coming loose." Despite all the minimalism, there is still the possibility of expanding the applications of the output stages. To do so, users connect a higher-level control system via a standardised step/direction interface. In pulse operating mode, for example, it is then possible to implement highly precise positioning with simple step/direction signals. To make sure designers can integrate the output stage into larger systems as early as the planning phase without friction losses, igus also offers EPLAN macros for download for the output stages. Users of the EPLAN planning software can import the macro and plan circuit diagrams virtually. "Thus, they reduce the design effort by up to 50%." Quick installation in a switch cabinet is also guaranteed thanks to the TS35 DIN rail format. Furthermore, igus offers free sample programmes for higher-level machine control systems, such as those of Siemens or Arduino.

New variants of the output stages for more movement possibilities

The new output stages are available in three sizes and ready to ship within 24 hours. The D7 version is suitable for stepper motors with up to 2.2A continuous current (NEMA 11/17), D8 for motors with up to 4A continuous current (NEMA 23/24) and D9 for motors with up to 7A continuous current (NEMA 34). And for all designs there are sub-variants, which increase the flexibility of movement. D7-1, for example, is suitable for the JOG operating mode with slow speeds between 1 and 50rpm. And D7-2 replaces the JOG mode with a LOOP mode of operation, which, for example in a cleaning system, ensures that a nozzle moves continuously from left to right and right to left.