GE Releases PACMotion 1.5 for Broad Device Connectivity and Improved Diagnostics

GE Intelligent Platforms has announced the availability of its latest update to its advanced motion controller, PACMotion firmware version 1.5. PACMotion is designed to control up to 40 axes of synchronized motion all at the exact same servo update loop rate of 1ms independent of the number of motion axes.

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Firmware version 1.5 features two axis analog servo control allowing control of one or two third-party amplifiers using a 10 VDC analog speed or torque command. A PACMotion module controls four axes, and each module can use two of those axes for third-party servos through this upgrade. Mixing of FANUC and analog axes on the same PACMotion module is also supported.

“This new version will allow users to connect a much broader range of devices to the exceptional functionality of PACMotion,” said Paul Derstine, Product Manager for GE Intelligent Platforms’ Control and Communications Systems. “There are times when a custom motor, linear actuator or linear hydraulic servo valve is required in an application. At other times in a machine retrofit, the servos are already in place and do not need to be replaced. This new firmware will open options for PACMotion to be used in many different areas to control machines enabling cost saving for the OEM on new machines by using lower cost servos and on field retrofits by enabling the reuse of existing servos.”

“GE’s PACMotion is the motion controller of choice for OEMs that need an integrated motion and machine logic solution. The proven dependability of GE products allows them to deliver unprecedented productivity in their machines through increased productivity, flexibility, and reliability. Unique features such the PACcore multi-processor architecture allows simultaneous updating of any number of axes with no performance degradation, on-demand data exchange providing real-time access to motion data asynchronous to the logic program scan and the ability to change nearly any motion parameter on the fly (even during a move) provides a powerful solution for complex motion control,” Derstine said.