Control Techniques FM-3, Reference Manual

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Glossary
Firmware
The term firmware refers to software (i.e., computer programs) that are stored in some fixed
form, such as read-only memory (ROM).
Flash
Another type of EEPROM.
Flash File
In the FM-3, this file loads the firmware into the drive and function module. Flash files can
field upgrade the firmware.
FM
Function Module - device which is attached to the front of the drive to provide additional
functionality.
Global Where Am I
PowerTools feature that indicates which line of which user program is executing.
Home Routine
The home provides motion in applications in which the axis must precisely align with some
part of a machine.
Hysteresis
For a system with an analog input, the output tends to maintain its current value until the input
level changes past the point that set the current output value. The difference in response of a
system to an increasing input signal versus a decreasing input signal.
I/O
Input/Output. The reception and transmission of information between control devices. In
modern control systems, I/O has two distinct forms: switches, relays, etc., which are in either
an on or off state, or analog signals that are continuous in nature generally depicting values
for speed, temperature, flow, etc.
Index
An index is a complete motion sequence (defined motion profile) that moves the motor a
specific incremental distance or to an absolute position.
Inertia
The property of an object to resist changes in rotary velocity unless acted upon by an outside
force. Higher inertia objects require larger torque to accelerate and decelerate. Inertia is
dependent upon the mass and shape of the object.