Posted to News on 23rd Apr 2025, 15:00
Speed controller now includes CANopen communications
maxon has enhanced its ESCON2 speed and current controller with CANopen communications. The update is available with new firmware and applies to controllers already in use as well as new products. ESCON2 operates with DC and brushless DC (BLDC) motors. Additional firmware developments have also improved the device's speed control capabilities.
The firmware updates apply to the ESCON2 Nano 24/2, with 24 V operating voltage featuring a 2 A continuous output current, the ESCON2 Micro 60/5 60 V controller with 5 A continuous output current, and both variants of the ESCON2 60/30, with 60 V operating voltage and 30 A continuous output. The ESCON2 60/30 is available in a Module PCB format, enabling direct OEM installation, plus a Compact format featuring connectors already fitted, ready for easy assembly.
The new firmware's inclusion of the CANopen communications protocol expands integration flexibility and control performance for OEM and system integrator design engineers. CANopen is widely used in industrial automation, enabling DC and BLDC drive systems controlled by ESCON2 to communicate with an increased range of devices and networks, including integration within distributed control systems.
CANopen achieves reliable, real-time data exchange, enhancing speed and current control precision for applications including robotics and medical devices. The standardised communication framework also simplifies system design and reduces development time, making it easier for engineers to implement and maintain control systems.
maxon's engineering team has also upgraded ESCON2's speed control capabilities. The device's Hall-based speed control algorithm has been enhanced via the new firmware update, improving control precision even for low-resolution sensor systems.
The firmware updates are included on new versions of ESCON2 Nano 24/2, Micro 60/5, and 60/30. Customers can also update applicable versions of ESCON2 controllers already in use by installing the latest version of maxon's Motion Installer software, version 1.1, available for free download from the download tab on the product page of any ESCON2 version.
ESCON2 can be quickly set up using maxon's free Motion Studio software, using any Windows PC (Windows 10 and 11) with a USB interface. The easy-to-use software can configure, operate, and analyse drive systems using menu-guided wizards and tools.
"Integrating CANopen communications to these versions of ESCON2 has expanded integration flexibility for our customers," says Will Mason, maxon UK and Ireland Managing Director. "CANopen also adds real-time control improvements to ESCON2, alongside upgraded control algorithms, boosting the maxon's speed and current controller to deliver higher performing drive systems."
ESCON2 is available alongside maxon's EPOS4 position controller, as well as a range of multi-axis controllers for DC and BLDC applications.
