Maxon precision motor’s newly released DC servo motor controller, the ESCON 50/5 OEM module is a 4 quadrant Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) servo motor controller that can efficiently control permanent magnet brushed DC motors (PMDC motors) and Brushless DC servo motors (BLDC motors) containing hall effect sensors, with power levels up to 250 watts.

The OEM module features exceptional motor control properties and also contains very fast digital current control bandwidth capabilities enabling peak DC motor current (and therefore torque) control. Speed control of DC motors is devoid from drift whilst remaining dynamic. The DC motor speed can be controlled from 0 rpm up to 150,000 rpm. A completely configurable broad range of functions can be set to operate form the onboard analogue and digital inputs. The DC motor speed can be set for open or closed loop with preset current/torque levels or the motor torque and direction can be set with analogue inputs. The inputs can be scaled and midpoints independently set with the “Easy to use Servo Controllers” PC Graphical User Interface (GUI) allowing fast implementation integrated into difficult motor control applications. Detailed design guides are supplied allowing easy integration onto the main equipment PCB. There is also an evaluation board for easy initial test and measurement.

This DC servo motor controller can also be used with an external potentiometer or the integrated on board potentiometer. For applications with existing PWM signals available this can also be used as a set value input. Full 4 quadrant control can be achieved with brushless motors using only hall sensors. A DC tacho or encoder can be optionally used with the DC motor for tighter feedback loops and digital inputs can be switched for activation in a particular motor direction of rotation.

Protection features are inbuilt on the motor controller against overcurrent, overtemp, undervoltage and overvoltage. Transients and short-circuits on the motor are also covered. The maximum allowable motor currents can be configured easily on the USB connection with the PC GUI. The small sized electronic motor controller has a 98 percent efficiency and can be used on common 12V, 24V and 48V DC systems making it suitable for process control, robotic and manufacturing equipment applications.