ELL7K Linear Stage Evaluation Kit
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting and FAQ
Page 12
DTN000044-D02
Chapter 5
Troubleshooting and FAQ
Stage is moving back and forth after power up
If the digital line “bw” is driven low before powering up the stage, the module will go into calibration mode.
Remove power to exit calibration mode. Keep line tight up to 3.3V or 5V rail during power up or use a serial
communication line instead.
Stage not moving
Check power supply lines ratings (polarity, voltage drop or range, available current) or reduce cable length.
Check module is not in boot loader mode (power cycle the module to exit boot loader) consumption must be
higher than 36mA at 5V.
Stage does not complete homing commands
Power cycle the unit.
Perform a frequency search on both motors.
Stage switching time increased / max load decreased
Check power supply voltage provided on J1 connector, increase voltage within specified limits if voltage drop
along cable goes below 5V during system operation.
Clean the moving surfaces. To avoid grease contamination, do not touch the moving parts.
Temperature change may affect the stage performance. Using the software to perform a frequency search will
compensate frequency as needed (required current could reach 1.2A during frequency search, use an addition
5V 1A power supply and a USB connection).
Integrators
should
search
for
optimal
frequency
on
every
power
up s
equence
(commands “s1”, “s2” see ELLx protocol document)
How do I restore the factory (default) settings
Factory settings can be restored during the start up (calibration) test – see Section 3.5.
What is the product life time
ELL7 product life time is restricted by the wearing of moving surfaces and the motor contact as motion is started
(due to resonance build up) and performed (due to friction), and is expressed in km travelled. Lifetime will
depend on several factors (e.g. load, number of homing operations, number of frequency searches etc.) and
users must take into account all these factors when considering life time. For example, homing requires more
travel than a simple motion, and a frequency search may not generate any motion at all, but still energizes the
motors fully.
The unit is not designed for continuous operation. Users should aim for a duty cycle of less than 40% wherever
possible, and never exceed a duty cycle of 60% for longer than a few seconds.
The minimum lifetime is 100 km.
Handling
The stage and interface board are robust to general handling. To ensure reliable operation, keep the surface of
the plastic track contacted by the motors free of oils, dirt, and dust. It is not necessary to wear gloves while
handling the linear stage, but avoid touching the track to keep it free of oils from fingerprints. If it is necessary
to clean the track, it may be wiped with isopropyl alcohol or mineral spirits (white spirit). Do not use acetone, as
this solvent will damage the plastic track.
