Delta Motion Expands RMC200 Controller Capabilities with EtherCAT

Delta Motion, an industrial and motion control technology leader, has recently announced its new EtherCAT communication module for the RMC200 Motion Controller series. The new R200-ECAT module allows for seamless communication between the RMC200 controller and EtherCAT-enabled devices, thereby enhancing control of electric motor drives and hydraulic valves.

Delta Motion's new RMC200 Motion Controller with added EtherCAT communication module. Image used courtesy of Delta Motion

Enhanced Connectivity and Control

Compatible with the RMC200 Lite, the new R200-ECAT main device module allows for control of up to 18 axes. The new module also seamlessly integrates with the standard versions that can handle controls of up to 50 axes. For reliability in network connection and cable redundancy, the new ECAT module is equipped with two RJ-45 ports. The module supports communication with EtherCAT subordinate devices like sensors and actuators for enhanced functionality.

Regarding controls, the EtherCAT MainDevice supports the controls of electric motor drives, providing control feedback like velocity, position, torque, pressure, and force. The RMC200 also supports the ability to define the axes with feedback and output from directly connected sensors or actuators through EtherCAT. The new RMC200 with EtherCAT features advanced hydraulic motion tuning capabilities, providing a synchronized multi-axis motion and dual loop control.

Simplified Integration and Enhanced Performance

Designed for high-performance control applications, Delta Motion’s new R200-ECAT module enables an efficient and fast data transmission rate of up to 100 Mbps with minimized jitters. With EtherCAT widely accepted, the new module ensures reliability and compatibility by using a standardized IEEE 802.3 for 100BASE-T hardware interface. To further enhance data transfer speed, the new ECAT module leverages full duplex communication for two-way data transmission.

Regarding existing standards and RMC200 Lite users, Delta Motion's new ECAT modules allow simplified integration into the new EtherCAT functionality. The module can be easily plugged into any RMC200 base in slot two next to the CPU. The wide use of EtherCAT in motor drive expands the connectivity of the RMC200 motion controller family, thereby making integrating a range of third-party sensor and actuator solutions easy.

RMC200 family photo. The controllers are available in configurations of up to 50 axes. Image used courtesy of Delta Motion

According to the CEO of Delta Motion, Steve Nylund, the use of EtherCAT benefits customers by providing simplified integration with drives, increased data flow, and options for reduced wiring. Steve also added that hybrid machines with motor drives and hydraulic motion control can be entirely controlled with the integration of the new solution.

Empowering Industry 4.0 with the EtherCAT Module

As industry 4.0 technologies become part of most industrial setups, communication protocols like EtherCAT are becoming essential for control systems. Delta Motion’s new R200-ECAT module sets the standards for use in servo-electric and servo-hydraulic applications, bringing unique features that enhance performance. These features, together with the positive feedback from Delta Motion’s beta testing customers, make the new EtherCAT communication module a potential choice for those seeking to integrate a user-friendly EtherCAT communication module in their electromechanical and hydraulic control systems.