How to control a linear actuator with an NI-DAQ card ?

[nidalsherbrooke]

Hello everybody !

I have a Firgelli linear actuator (please find attached the datasheet). This actuator has 5 wires : one for the power (max 12 V), one for the ground. It has also an integrated potentiometer : a wire for the Feedback potentiometer positive reference rail, a wire for the negative one and the last wire which give the position signal.

I am able to move it when I wire it to a 12V power supply. I am currently trying to control the position of my actuator using a NI-USB acquisition device NI-USB 6218 (please find attached the datasheet).

So first I just want to furnish a tension signal from my card to supply my actuator. But it did not work. Some people told me that it was because my NI-card does not supply enough current. Is it right ?

If it’s right how can I control my actuator ? I have an Arduino in my stock.

Thank you.

King Regards

Nidal Kochrad

Student at Université de Sherbrooke

[cody_a]

Which configuration of the L12 actuator do you have?  The model number should be "L12-SS-GG-VV-C-L", as explained on page 2 of the attached data sheet.

From what I can tell, the data sheet is not specific on the current draw.  But, the current vs. force plots on page two indicate at least ~25mA required on all models.  The output drive current of an analog output channel of the NI USB-6218 is only +/- 2mA, as shown on page 3 of the USB-621x Specifications manual found here: http://www.ni.com/pdf/manuals/371932f.pdf.

I'm not sure how much output current your Arduino has, but whatever device you use would need to be up to 300mA to get the full force range of your actuator.