American Control Electronics

The DCL series is a low voltage, brushless motor control that operates in the 12-48 VDC power bandwidth, up to 30 amps peak (1 minute) or 15 amps continuously. The drive is a unique approach to motion control as the base DCL unit is designed for cost conscience OEMs. By removing many of the trim pots and jumpers associated with motor controls, the DCL saves cost on hardware and setup, but can be programmed by American Control Electronics for your specific application and motor. For users who wish to modify calibration in the field, the DCL uses programmer board CPC300-1 (sold separately) that snaps onto the unit and provides calibration of 10 different parameters, as well as DIP switches for setting different modes of operation. You only need one CPC300-1 as the adder board can be removed after programming and used with multiple DCL units. Base DCL units are Modbus capable and come with one trim pot for calibrating maximum speed, and two DIP switches for closed / open loop operation, as well as inverting the hall effect feedback.

The Volts/Hertz VFD Series has several models in the 1/16 - 1 HP range that accept 115 VAC and 230 VAC power. VFD600 models have a jumper that causes the drive to double the output voltage, allowing the use of 230 VAC motors when only a 115 VAC power is available. The VFD Series was designed to “look and feel” like a DC drive. This means quick and easy setup with no programming required. With its compact size, standard features, and application flexibility, the VFD Series is an excellent choice for most 1 HP and under AC applications. The VFD Series can also run single phase permanent split capacitor (PSC), shaded pole, and synchronous motors.

The DCR series are microprocessor based, low voltage PWM drives that are capable of braking and reversing regeneratively. The microprocessor allows for custom programming to fit any OEMs custom needs, sometimes eliminating the need for a PLC and/or sensors. They can even be programmed for use in the field without trimmer potentiometers, creating a simple install and a level of security for OEMs. Some models contain a “sleep mode” which extends battery life, and some contain a Fault LED with a built in flashing code for under voltage, over voltage, current limit, overheat, and short circuit. With features like pre-charge circuits, brake outputs, directionally based inhibits, you’re sure to find a drive to fit your needs. Standard drive has been modified to allow for bidirectional control with a unidirectional signal (0V is full speed reverse, 5V is full speed forward).

The MTU Series is a microprocesser based 1Q SCR drive that provides the power of two drives in one. Now with one DC drive, you can control two different DC motors either independently or in a ratio mode. In independent mode, each side of the drive can be controlled independently from the other motor. There are two unique sets of trim pots for calibration. In ratio mode, one speed potentiometer set the main speed while the other determines the ratio of the speeds between the motors. In this mode, the drive replaces two single drives and possibly a separate master/follower card resulting in extreme cost and panel space savings.

The PWP series is an economical and compact solution for those who seek the benefits of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology. The almost pure DC voltage provided by the PWP series allows for quieter and cooler operation of any permanent magnet DC motor. The 1.05 form factor of the DC output extends motor brush life and allows for an increase in motor torque throughout the speed range. With a full range of adjustments, such as Maximum Speed, Current Limit, IR Compensation, and available with an isolated input, the PWP series can easily be calibrated to run a wide range of motors from 1/100 to 1 HP. Because of PWMs superiority over SCR technology, this series is the perfect choice for any application where extending motor life is desired.

The LGD series of motor drives is a versatile and compact SCR drive designed for any 1Q application where a field output is not required. With most of the features offered by the LGC family of drives, the LGD series offers even more flexibility. Unlike the LGC series where it’s inhibit function is actuated by the closing of the inhibit terminals, the LGD series allows you to choose either to open or close to inhibit. Other user selectable features include inhibiting to zero or to minimum speed, and torque mode or speed mode operation. With the unit set up to run in torque mode, you can easily control the amount of current that is supplied to your motor via an external potentiometer, perfect for tensioning applications. This feature rich series is easily adapted to meet almost any application need.

The MTU Series is a microprocesser based 1Q SCR drive that provides the power of two drives in one. Now with one DC drive, you can control two different DC motors either independently or in a ratio mode. In independent mode, each side of the drive can be controlled independently from the other motor. There are two unique sets of trim pots for calibration. In ratio mode, one speed potentiometer set the main speed while the other determines the ratio of the speeds between the motors. In this mode, the drive replaces two single drives and possibly a separate master/follower card resulting in extreme cost and panel space savings.

The flagship of our Pulse Width Modulation family, the PWM series combines the most sought after features and options all in one package. With its auto ranging switch mode power supply, the need for selecting AC power input modes is no longer needed. Available with isolated inputs, this series can easily be incorporated into applications where non-isolated 0-5 VDC command signals are present. Offered with the full gamut of adjustment trim pots, the PWM series can be fine tuned to run almost any PMDC motor in the 1/20th to 2 HP range, and with an industry wide accepted footprint, these drives are well suited for applications where a compact and full featured pulse width modulated drive is required.

The PAT series is a versatile and robustly designed full featured drive for PM or shunt-wound motors. The standard NEMA 4X plastic enclosure makes this series the perfect choice for harsh environments where protection from moisture is needed. With its factory installed heat sink, this series can drive a wide range of motors without the need for any type of upgrade or additional heat sinking. And with the same user adjustable features offered by all our 1Q series drives, the PAT series can easily be fine-tuned for your application. Available in two different styles; non-reversing and reversing.

With the LGM series, the features list just keeps growing. With its Burr Brown linear isolated input, the LGM series can accept a grounded 4-20 mA or 0-10 VDC signal from any Programmable Logic Control (PLC) or motion card to control motor speed. With its isolated inputs, the LGM series can easily be enabled or inhibited using NPN open collector transistors, dry contact relays, or switches. Status LEDs on the drive also allow for convenient monitoring. With separate models designed to accept either 115 or 230 VAC power and all the standard features offered by our 1Q drive family, this series can effortlessly be incorporated into any demanding application where electrical isolation is needed.

The RGA-CYC Series is our RGA400 controls with an added logic board. These controls are dual voltage, fully-featured regen drives in a rugged enclosure. These high performance controls maintain motor speed with automatic motoring and braking torque, while allowing high-duty cycle reversing and braking, great for limit switch applications. The RGA-CYC have conveniently mounted operators. Included are a power on/off switch and separate forward and reverse speed potentiometers so independent speeds for each direction can be easily set. Controlling the motor is easy too, by pressing a button on the membrane panel for stop, run, reverse, or jog (jog speed is adjustable). The user can also wire in remote pushbuttons in conjunction with the on-board buttons. These controls can operate in several modes with either one or two limit switches, including continuous cycling, single cycle, dwell and more - including adjustable stop and dwell times!

The MUN series is American Control Electronics approach to competition...by adding value. We've taken the LGC400-10 and kept the most commonly requested features; 115 VAC input for a 90 VDC permanent magnet motor. We've compressed the physical footprint of the drive to save space for customers who are mounting these units into panels. However, we kept the classic industry standard footprint that American Control Electronics created and is known for. Furthermore, we've added a microprocessor which allows us to either run custom routines or we can set the trim pot parameters internally, allowing us to remove the trim pots for cost savings and optimizing customer setup time and field installation.

The CMC series is a stand-alone accessory card that can provide a current limit alarm. Compatible with any DC motor controller, the card is wired in series with a DC motor. Using a jumper to set a base current limit trip point, an on-board OFFSET trim pot can be used to finely adjust the trip point. A TIME DELAY trim pot can be used to determine how long the motor’s amperage draw must be above the trip point before determining it’s truly a fault scenario. This prevents false alarms from startup draws and momentary surges. When the card determines it’s a trip, it will toggle a N.O. output closed and another N.C. output open. These contacts are to be used as switches to turn on or off other circuits, such as LEDs, relays, or speakers. The card can be set to stay tripped or can be set to automatically reset (un-trip) once current falls below an adjustable HYSTERESIS setting. This feature rich current sensing module is a valuable tool in new and existing systems where an added level of monitoring and protection is required.

The next generation of PWM controls from American Control Electronics has arrived! Using a 115 or 230 VAC power source, the PMB Series is designed to run brushed DC motors, up to 180 VDC. The PWM technology creates a cleaner output voltage compared to older SCR circuitry, which allows the motor to run at a cooler operating temperature at comparatively higher and lower speeds. The PMB is also a regenerative control, meaning it can reverse on-the-fly without any contacts on the motor armature. The integrated dump circuitry eliminates the need for accessory cards and external relays in high inertia applications. The onboard microprocessor allows for custom programming for OEMs. Whether it’s as simple as changing the purpose of a jumper, input, or trim pot, to programming entire routines and behaviors specific only to the OEMs application, the PMB is great for integrating PLC like functionality into your operation. Doing this can eliminate the need of a separate PLC altogether or enhance a system that currently does not have one. The PMB Series has been tested to the 61800-5-1 Standard and is UL listed in the US and Canada, and includes isolation for remote control from an analog signal.

When simplicity and a compact package are important factors in a machine design, the SPM series offers several cost effective solutions. While costs are kept low by providing no frills speed control, the SPM series still supplies the same type of full-wave DC voltage found on more expensive drives. Some models are also offered with built-in speed potentiometers for easy mounting of the complete unit directly on to a control panel. Available in either 115 VAC or 230 VAC types, and able to run 90 VDC motors from 1/50 to 1/4 HP, the SPM series is the best choice when simple speed control is required.

The flagship of our Pulse Width Modulation family, the PWM series combines the most sought after features and options all in one package. With its auto ranging switch mode power supply, the need for selecting AC power input modes is no longer needed. Available with isolated inputs, this series can easily be incorporated into applications where non-isolated 0-5 VDC command signals are present. Offered with the full gamut of adjustment trim pots, the PWM series can be fine tuned to run almost any PMDC motor in the 1/20th to 2 HP range, and with an industry wide accepted footprint, these drives are well suited for applications where a compact and full featured pulse width modulated drive is required.

The DCR series are microprocessor based, low voltage PWM drives that are capable of braking and reversing regeneratively. The microprocessor allows for custom programming to fit any OEMs custom needs, sometimes eliminating the need for a PLC and/or sensors. They can even be programmed for use in the field without trimmer potentiometers, creating a simple install and a level of security for OEMs. Some models contain a “sleep mode” which extends battery life, and some contain a Fault LED with a built in flashing code for under voltage, over voltage, current limit, overheat, and short circuit. With features like pre-charge circuits, brake outputs, directionally based inhibits, you’re sure to find a drive to fit your needs.

When simplicity and a compact package are important factors in a machine design, the SPM series offers several cost effective solutions. While costs are kept low by providing no frills speed control, the SPM series still supplies the same type of full-wave DC voltage found on more expensive drives. Some models are also offered with built-in speed potentiometers for easy mounting of the complete unit directly on to a control panel. Available in either 115 VAC or 230 VAC types, and able to run 90 VDC motors from 1/50 to 1/4 HP, the SPM series is the best choice when simple speed control is required.

The CMC series is a stand-alone accessory card that can provide a current limit alarm. Compatible with any DC motor controller, the card is wired in series with a DC motor. Using a jumper to set a base current limit trip point, an on-board OFFSET trim pot can be used to finely adjust the trip point. A TIME DELAY trim pot can be used to determine how long the motor’s amperage draw must be above the trip point before determining it’s truly a fault scenario. This prevents false alarms from startup draws and momentary surges. When the card determines it’s a trip, it will toggle a N.O. output closed and another N.C. output open. These contacts are to be used as switches to turn on or off other circuits, such as LEDs, relays, or speakers. The card can be set to stay tripped or can be set to automatically reset (un-trip) once current falls below an adjustable HYSTERESIS setting. This feature rich current sensing module is a valuable tool in new and existing systems where an added level of monitoring and protection is required.