Kollmorgen emphasizes flexibility with new programmable motion controller

Kollmorgen this week released its new PCMM2G programmable motion controller. The company said this scalable controller offers simple integration with systems based on the Kollmorgen Automation Suite as well as with third-party devices. This allows it to bring new capabilities and increased performance to everything from standalone machines to complex, modular automation systems. 

The PCMM2G controller is compatible with previous-generation PDMM and PCMM controllers from Kollmorgen. The company claimed that It offers a simple migration path while enabling greater flexibility and a 1.5 to 3.5 times faster fieldbus cycle rate than the PDMM or PCMM.

The controller also supports most third-party automation systems while improving performance and ease of use, said Kollmorgen.

“Whether you’re a Kollmorgen Automation Suite customer, or you’re looking to maximize the performance of third-party motion components, our next-generation PCMM2G is designed for you,” stated Chris Cooper, product management senior director at Kollmorgen.

“It’s exceptionally fast and powerful. It’s fully featured and versatile,” he added. “And it’s an easy way to bring advanced automation capabilities to practically any industrial application, from small simple machines to large highly complex environments.”

The PCMM2G’s technical details

Kollmorgen said its new controller is based on a 1.5 GHz quad-core processor that delivers industry-leading cycle times. It supports up to 64 axes of synchronized path motion, including S-curve and other complex moves.

The PCMM2G controller also includes 16 GB of internal flash memory, six digital inputs, two digital outputs, integral functional safety modules, and an onboard human-machine interface panel.

For fast integration with most systems, the system is equipped with 100BASE-T connectivity that supports UDP, HTTP, Modbus, Ethernet/IP, and PROFINET. The controller also includes dual Ethernet ports, which allow system configuration while connected to an industrial network.

An uninterruptible real-time clock with battery backup, plus support for an external time-keeping server via network time protocol (NTP), ensures precise timing and synchronization across all axes, Kollmorgen said.

Kollmorgen offers plug-and-play support

For Kollmorgen PDMM and PCMM controller users, the PCMM2G offers step-by-step migration assistance. The company said all customers can count on full support, both online and live. 

The new product also includes plug-and-play capabilities with the Kollmorgen Automation Suite and third-party systems. The controller’s integrated tools simplify and speed network configuration, servo tuning, and machine optimization, said Kollmorgen.

In addition, support for file management and backup/restore is provided through a USB slot to accommodate removable flash drives.

When used as part of the full Kollmorgen Automation Suite, the PCMM2G controller offers the additional benefits of simplified inventory, reduced setup time and consolidated software, said the company. It also asserted that PCMM2G provides the confidence of having one trusted automation supplier with fully integrated components and complete system validation.

Kollmorgen said it has more than 100 years of motion experience. Its extensive product portfolio includes motors, drives, linear actuators, automated guided vehicle (AGV) control systems, and automation control platforms. The The Radford, Virginia-based company said its technology combines performance, reliability, and ease of use to give machine builders a marketplace advantage. 

Meet with Kollmorgen at RoboBusiness

If you’re interested in learning more about Kollmorgen’s latest products, the company will be exhibiting at RoboBusiness 2024, which takes place Oct. 16 and 17 in Santa Clara, Calif. The company will be exhibiting at Booth 325 on the expo floor. 

Additionally, at 2:45 p.m. PT on Oct. 16, Todd Brewster, director of electromagnetic engineering at Kollmorgen, will discuss the evolution of motor science, from theory to action. He will examine the technology‘s role in enabling robots to satisfy industrial demands and to be commercially successful.

Brewster’s session, which will be on Day 1 of RoboBusiness, will share insights into how motors can be designed to improve thermal dynamics and robot efficiency. He will also discuss how to design high-performance systems while also considering weight, size, and cost factors.

Register now for RoboBusiness, which is co-located with DeviceTalks West. The events are produced by WTWH Media, which also publishes The Robot Report, Automated Warehouse, and Collaborative Robotics Trends, as well as produces the Robotics Summit & Expo.

Register now.