Best value stepper control solution

[AdamLeicester]

Hi,

I'm currently working on a university project to build a 2-axis traverse for our wind tunnel. We are going to be using stepper motors for the movement and controlling them through LabVIEW. I've been looking at motion controllers but have to admit I'm a bit confused about a few things. So far I've come up with two possible options but am unsure of the accessories I will need to achieve the functionality I require. Here are the options:

1. PCI-7334 4-axis stepper controller (4-axis card instead of 2-axis so that a third axis of movement can be added at a later date)

2. NI-9512 CompactRIO module x2

I want to be able to control 2 NEMA-23 motors with quadrature encoder feedback using either P75030 or P70360 power drives. The main thing I'm confused about is whether I would need to buy the NI-UMI-7774 and/or NI-UMI-7764 for this or if the encoder and stepper drives could connect directly to the PCI card. Also are there any connectivity accessories that would be required for the NI-9512 or does everything here connect directly to the module.

Thanks in advance for any help,

Adam

[BB. · Accepted solution]

Hi Adam,

The two options of PCI-7334 and NI-9512 will both be suitable for controlling NEMA 23 stepper motors.

I have found a few documents which will detail what you need for each of these options.

PCI-7334 - http://www.ni.com/pdf/manuals/372324d.pdf

NI9512 -  http://www.ni.com/pdf/manuals/375578a.pdf

For more information on what comes with each module and the current pricing i would advise contacting our sales team for a more in depth discussion with you so that you get the best setup for your needs.

If you are based in the UK or Ireland then you can call 01635 523545.

Please post back if you have any further questions.

Best Regards,