Steeplechase VLC Offers Integrated SynqNet Motion Capability

By DE Editors

September 19, 2007 — Phoenix Contact’s (Middletown, PA) Steeplechase VLC software now offers seamless integration of the SynqNet motion network when used with the RapidCode VLC driver.

A SynqNet-based system with Steeplechase VLC and the RapidCode VLC driver can control up to 256 axes of motion from a single Steeplechase VLC runtime program. SynqNet provides synchronized, plug and play motion devices from a range of top servo manufacturers.

Steeplechase VLC with integrated SynqNet provides a single, ease-of-use programming environment for real-time motion control, simplifying development and eliminating the need to purchase, learn, and maintain multiple programming packages. The integrated PC-based networked control also eliminates problematic analog wiring and intricate handshaking between PCs, standalone controllers, and motor amplifiers.

The RapidCode VLC driver, developed by Robotic Systems Integration Inc. (Chesterton, IN), provides VLC programmers with a common set of system motion commands, such as jogging, point-to-point positioning, position tracking, contouring, linear and circular interpolation and electronic gearing.

SynqNet uses the standard Ethernet IEE802.3 physical layer for robust isolation and 100m cable lengths with a deterministic protocol engineered by Danaher Motion. SynqNet creates system modularity, HotReplace service without downtime, remote diagnostics, software field upgrade, multi-vendor support and fault-tolerant safety.

For more information, visit Phoenix Contact or Robotic Systems Integration Inc.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.