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Chapter 2
Overview and Setup
2.9
Verifying Software Operation
2.9.1
Initial Setup
1) Install the APT software as detailed in Section 2.7.
2) Connect the controller to the stepper actuators or the relevent axes of the
associated stages (see Section 2.3.).
3) Fit the interlock plug (supplied) to the MOTOR CONTROL connector on the rear
panel.
4) Run the APTUser utility and check that the GUI panels appear and are active.
5) Press the
key until the channel 1 led is lit.
6) Click the
key and check that the motor axis associated with channel 1 moves.
The position display for channel 1 should increment.
Follow the tutorial steps described in Chapter 3 for further verification of operation.
Note. The 'APT Config' utility can be used to set up simulated hardware configurations
and place the APT Server into simulator mode. In this way it is possible to create any
number and type of simulated (virtual) hardware units in order to emulate a set of real
hardware. This is a particularly useful feature, designed as an aid to application program
development and testing. Any number of 'virtual' control units are combined to build a
model of the real system, which can then be used to test the application software offline.
If using real hardware, ensure that Simulator Mode is disabled. If using a simulated
setup, enable Simulator Mode and set up a ‘Simulated Configuration’ - see Section 4.8.
or the APTConfig helpfile for detailed instructions.
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