Product Description:

The NEXTSTEP EO microstepping drive is produced by Kollmorgen within the NEXTSTEP Microstepping Drives series. It converts step-and-direction pulse streams from PLC or motion controller outputs into regulated phase currents, allowing hybrid stepper motors to perform smooth, high-resolution moves in assembly cells, metrology axes, and small-format gantries. By combining mains rectification and current control in a single housing, the unit simplifies panel wiring while supporting precise position control in industrial automation.

The drive accepts a single-phase 120 VAC line and rectifies it to an internal bus of 160 VDC nominal, providing voltage headroom for rapid torque transitions. Motor phase current is limited to 7.9 A, which helps keep windings within thermal limits during aggressive acceleration ramps. Overall power consumption does not exceed 500 VA, which reduces demand on the incoming supply. Position granularity reaches 50,000 steps/rev, and the command interface supports pulse frequencies up to 2 MHz, allowing fine contouring without reducing traverse speed. Input pulses must be at least 250 ns wide, and the direction signal must lead by 0.4 µs to maintain proper phasing before each 1.8-degree increment.

Protective functions monitor incoming power and internal temperature during operation. A brownout threshold of 90 VAC removes gate drive when the supply sags, and an over-temperature latch engages at 65 °C to protect the power devices. Regenerative voltage is checked continuously, and if the bulk capacitor reaches 220 VDC, the unit inhibits switching to avoid overvoltage damage. In normal service, the inverter modulates at 20 kHz, which keeps current ripple low and moves switching noise above the typical audible range. Rated performance is maintained up to 50 °C ambient and 90% relative humidity, provided adequate airflow is available.