Delta tau PMAC-2 ACC8E Programmable Multi-Axis Controller

Title: Understanding the Delta Tau PMAC2 Programmable Multi-Axis Controller

Introduction: The Delta Tau Data Systems, Inc. Programmable Multi-Axis Controller2 (PMAC2) stands out as a high-performance servo motion controller with the capability to command up to eight axes simultaneously. Powered by a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), PMAC2 offers an unprecedented price/performance ratio in multi-axis control. This article delves into the key features, hardware versions, applications, and the computer-like capabilities of the PMAC2.

Section 1: Key Features and Hardware Versions

1.1 Digital Signal Processor (DSP):

• PMAC2 utilizes Motorola’s DSP56002 as its CPU, handling all calculations for all eight axes with remarkable efficiency.
• The DSP empowers PMAC2 to achieve a level of sophistication previously unavailable in multi-axis control.

1.2 Hardware Versions:

• Six versions of PMAC2 are available, differing in form factor, bus interface, and I/O port availability.
• The versions include PMAC2-PC, PMAC2-PC Ultralite, PMAC2-Lite, PMAC2-VME, PMAC2-VME Ultralite, and MiniPMAC2.
• All versions share virtually identical on-board firmware, ensuring compatibility across the PMAC2 family.

 Section 2: Versatility and Applications

2.1 Standalone or Host Commanded:

• PMAC2 can operate as a standalone controller or be commanded by a host computer through a serial or bus port.
• Its versatility allows deployment in various applications requiring precision, from sub-microinch accuracy to high-power operations.

2.2 Diverse Applications:

• PMAC2 finds applications in robotics, machine tools, paper and lumber processing, assembly lines, food processing, printing, packaging, material handling, camera control, automatic welding, silicon wafer processing, laser cutting, and more.

Section 3: Configuration and Communication

3.1 Hardware Configuration:

• PMAC2 is configured for specific applications by selecting the hardware set through options and accessories.
• The configuration involves setting parameters and writing motion and PLC programs.

3.2 Coordinated Motion:

• PMAC2 firmware can control eight axes, allowing coordinated motion or independent operations.
• Intermediate arrangements of axes into coordinate systems are also possible.

3.3 DSPGATES Communication:

• The PMAC2 CPU communicates with axes through custom gate array ICs, known as DSPGATES.
• These ICs handle analog outputs, encoder inputs, and analog-derived inputs from accessory boards.

Section 4: Computer-Like Capabilities

4.1 Standalone Operation:

• PMAC2 is a full computer capable of standalone operation with its stored programs.

4.2 Real-time Multitasking:

• It operates as a real-time, multitasking computer that can prioritize tasks, pre-empting lower priority tasks.

4.3 Host Computer Interaction:

• When used with a host computer, communication is akin to one computer interacting with another, not as a computer to a peripheral.
• Running multiple tasks simultaneously can alleviate the host computer’s burden in terms of processor time and task-switching complexity.

Conclusion: The Delta Tau PMAC2 Programmable Multi-Axis Controller represents a cutting-edge solution in the realm of servo motion controllers, offering unparalleled versatility, compatibility, and computer-like capabilities for a wide range of industrial applications.