LS Electric PLCs - Motion Controllers

The XMC motion controller is a super small, brick-style controller that is lightning fast, and highly capable. XMC controllers utilize the EtherCAT high-performance protocol which is specifically designed for real-time communication and deterministic data exchange, making it ideal for motion control applications like robotics, assembly lines, and packaging machines. EtherCAT boasts incredibly low communication jitter (variations in timing), ensuring precise synchronization between devices and smooth motion control. This is crucial for applications requiring high accuracy and repeatability. Other EtherCAT advantages include greatly simplified motion axis installation wiring (versus typical pulse direction systems) and enhanced diagnostics/troubleshooting data for quick problem resolution.

XMC controllers feature full EtherCAT master capabilities, meaning they can communicate and control any EtherCAT device. This allows the XMC controller to seamlessly communicate with EtherCAT I/O, encoders, AC drives, etc. To expand the I/O capabilities of an XMC controller, simply configure an EtherCAT I/O rack starting with the XEL-BSSCT bus coupler and add up to 8 XGB I/O modules. XMC units support up to 32 racks of EtherCAT I/O.

Not only can these controllers handle numerous EtherCAT devices, they also support G-code, M-code, and programming specific to robot control including Delta3, Delta3R, Linear Delta, and more. On top of that, XMC controllers can also be used for PLC functions, providing an enhanced programming environment for discrete and/or process control needs.

The XMC controllers offer extremely fast processing capabilities, not just with motion commands, but with basic PLC logic as well. Basic commands are executed with a scan time of only 6.25ns, motion commands with a 5ns scan, and arithmetic commands with a 30ns scan. EtherCAT-based high-speed communication cycle times are also 0.5/1/2/4ms.

The XMC controller provides both highly advanced motion control with EtherCAT communication and built-in PLC functionality for a price well below the competition. By using the powerful XMC controller for your next motion control application, you could save thousands on hardware costs alone.

• Coordinate up to 16 axes of EtherCAT motion (with up to 18 virtual axes)
• Two Ethernet ports, one for Modbus TCP and one for EtherCAT communication
• MicroSD port for data logging, program transfer and backup
• On-board USB port for instant, hassle-free programming connection
• Built-in I/O include: 8 discrete inputs, 16 discrete outputs, 2 analog inputs, and 2 analog outputs
• Two built-in encoder inputs to support full-closed-loop control
• Expand I/O further with up to 32 EtherCAT remote I/O racks (use XEL-BSSCT bus coupler)
• All programming (motion and PLC) is done in the powerful and FREE XG5000 software
• Support for various single-axis and multi-axis operations including:
  • Speed control
  • Feed control
  • Torque control
  • Registration
  • Electronic camming
  • Flying shear
  • Linear interpolation
  • Circular/helical/elliptical interpolation
  • Encoder following
  • Smart conveyor
  • Rotary table
  • Rotary knife/shear
  • Programmable Limit Switch (PLS)
  • Synchronous position phasing
  • Up to 32 CAM profiles
  • Various homing control functions
  • Full G-code (and M-code) interpreter for traditional CNC machines such as mills, lathes, and router tables

LS Electric XMC Motion Controller Overview

LS Electric XMC Motion Controller Software Overview