Product description

Ministep is a bipolar stepper motor drive with advanced commands for positioning and I/O reading. Several features make this module special, such as compact size, Modbus or simple and easy text protocols on the RS-485, special functions on the I/O pins. The device is configured through dip-switches and RS-485 interface, and can store its settings into the internal non-volatile flash memory. Once configured, it can work using solely Step/Direction signals, without RS485 connection. The I/Os (3 inputs and 1 output) permit different applications, for example a limit switch or other equipment; it is also possible to interface a quadrature encoder (readable via RS-485) to implement a closed-loop system.

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Typical applications

Stepper motor control, possibly in combination with other modules on the same bus (Ministep, Minimod...), in the automation/robotics field.

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Technical details

• Power supply from 12 to 34 volts D.C.
• Driving current up to 3A continuous, (6A peak)
• Full step, half step, microstepping up to 1/16
• Configurable currents for stop, run, acceleration and deceleration
• Configurable speed profiles
• Commands for absolute/relative positioning, and other advanced functions
• 3 digital inputs for general purpose I/O, limit switch, encoder, Step/Dir signals; 1 output (Ready/Busy)
• Settings configurable via rotary selector, dip-switches, internal flash memory
• RS-485 interface with 2 protocols: Modbus, or simple text commands
• Internal watch-dog for safety and reliability
• 2 status LEDs
• Electronic circuit embedded in resin, in plstic container with fixing holes
• Extractable terminal block

Other features

The inputs (0-34V) can be used in several ways:

• all are readable via serial line, and have an associated counter
• FC can be used for a limit switch, to perform accurate zeros (reset)
• I2 and I3 can be used as Step/Direction signals
• I2 and I3 can be used to connect an incremental encoder

The Modbus protocol is an effective and well-known industrial standard, yet easy to implement. Alternatively, the simple text protocol can be used, which is even easier to manage with any computer, even very small.

Specifications

Power supply:	from 12 to 34 volts DC
Current consumption:	100 mA (the device itself), 3.1A total (up to 6.4A peak)
Working temperature:	from -10 to +50° C
Dimensions:	mm 95x110x24
Robust plastic container and resin
Extractable terminal block

Documentation

Ministep user manual (english PDF, ~5 Mib)