The Advantage 900 CNC controller is a major departure from conventional designs in terms of both hardware and firmware. With its dual-processor system, open architecture and fibre-optic connectivity, every aspect of the new controller breaks new ground.

While most modern CNC systems have integrated PLC functionality, the Advantage 900 goes further by offering the functionality of not one but 64 independent PLCs, two of which run at real-time or servo update frequency. This advanced architecture makes it easy to tackle any form of asynchronous task.

The dual-processor design allows the new controller to provide a convenient configurable PC-based interface, while guaranteeing that high-speed real-time functions operate efficiently and reliably to keep servos on track under all operating conditions.

Further benefits have been provided by implementing selected position capture and compare I/O functions in hardware, which allows them to be completed in nanoseconds. This means that challenging applications, such as pulse control on lasers, can readily be addressed.

Integration of Advantage 900 controllers is fast and straightforward, as all major CNC components can be connected using a single fibre-optic cable, USB2 connections, Ethernet or even Bluetooth.

Complementing the new controllers is a new version of Delta Tau’s renowned PMAC Windows-based software package, which allows controller operation to be matched easily and quickly to the machine configuration. PMAC makes light work of even the most demanding applications, such as five-axis contouring machines with 3D tool compensation, and robotics systems employing inverse kinematics.

The Advantage 900 controller features a ruggedised PC at its heart, equipped with a fast Intel Pentium 4 processor and 512MB of RAM which is expandable to 1GB. Excellent ergonomics is assured by a large 15-inch LCD with a touch screen and a high contrast ratio. A mouse pad is also incorporated along with a keyboard which can be adjusted to match the user’s height and viewing angle.

The mobile operator control pendant, which provides access to all of the functions needed to operate a machine tool, is another key feature of the new controller. The pendant has 15 function keys, yet comfortably fits into the palm of a small hand. OEMs can also get a custom printed overlay for specific machine applications.

For motion drive, the Advantage 900 links directly with Delta Tau’s new Geo Brick, which is a combined control and amplifier in a single 4, 6, or 8 axis unit. The Geo Brick amplifier is available with in combinations of 5/10A, 8/16A, and 15/30A outputs. The bus input is variable from 20-230VAC, and the Geo Brick is compatible with brushless DC, DC Brushed, AC synchronous (servo) and AC induction motors in both linear and rotary configurations.


For further information, contact: Andy Joslin,
Delta Tau UK Limited, Holland Cottage, Kirby Road, Great Holland, Essex CO13 0HZ.
Telephone: 01255 670196 Fax: 01255 850768
e-mail: ajoslin@deltatau.com

Press enquiries to: John Houston
Houston Associates, Media House,181-185 Kirkdale, London, SE26 4QH
Telephone: +44 (0) 20 8778 1900 Fax: +44 (0) 20 8659 9191
e-mail: john@houston-associates.com
www: www.houston-associates.com

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