Using encoder's index channel signal to seek mechanical home

[om_tech_support_JT]

Q: I am using an Oriental Motor step motor and driver with built-in controller (stored data) system, an RKII series FLEX type, and I am interested in doing sensor-less mechanical home seeking operation. My motor is equipped with a 3-channel encoder. Can I use the encoder feedback to do a mechanical home seeking operation?

A: Yes you can. The 3-channel encoder includes an A, a B, and an index (Z) channel signal. The index channel sends one pulse per motor revolution. When the Index channel signal is ON (one pulse), the ZSG driver output signal also turns on. As long as your travel distance does not exceed one revolution, the following method would work.

To enable the mechanical home seeking operation with the encoder Index channel serving as home sensor, please follow the following steps:

1. In the MEXE02 software or OPX-2A control module, map driver ZSG output to one of the output pins.

Setting up encoder index, Z channel signal as mech home signal.png (13.68 KiB) Viewed 2130 times

2. Wire the ZSG output pin to the Home Sensor input pin.
3. Start a Mechanical Home seeking operation in 3 sensor mode.

For any questions, please contact tech support at [email protected].