Applied Motion Products Keeps Automation Moving With New Motion Control Platforms

Applied Motion Products has introduced three new automation platforms at Automate 2026 designed to simplify machine design and system integration. The new platforms include the MCA6 Motion PLC, MET2 Remote I/O System, and AK Series StepSERVO drives, which provide scalable solutions for machine control, distributed I/O, and multi-axis motion, giving machine builders additional flexibility when developing new automation equipment.

Although each product serves a different role within a machine, the three platforms are designed to work together through a common software environment and industrial networking support. The result is an integrated automation platform that combines centralized control, remote I/O, and flexible motion while reducing integration effort for machine builders.

Applied Motion Products has launched three new automation platforms: the MCA6 Motion PLC, MET2 Remote I/O System, and the AK Series StepSERVO drives. Images used courtesy of Applied Motion Products

Machine Control and Distributed I/O

The MCA6 Motion PLC combines PLC and motion control functions in a compact controller built around a 64-bit quad-core ARM processor. Programming is done through McEngine Pro, a CODESYS-based environment that supports PLCopen motion libraries and IEC 61131-3 programming standards.

The controller supports up to 64 EtherCAT motion axes and 128 EtherCAT devices, with functions including electronic camming, interpolation, synchronization, CNC, and robotic motion control. Communication options include EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU, CANopen, OPC UA, UDP, and TCP/IP for integration into existing automation networks.

The MCA6 Motion PLC and MET2 Remote I/O platform integrate motion control, distributed I/O, and CODESYS-based programming into a compact automation system. Image used courtesy of Applied Motion Products

The MET2 Remote I/O System extends machine I/O through an EtherCAT-based architecture supporting up to 32 expansion modules from a single coupler. Available modules include digital and analog I/O, temperature, pressure, communication, and high-speed I/O.

The 12 mm-wide modules help reduce cabinet space, while PUSH-IN terminals, detachable connectors, and gold-plated contacts are intended to simplify installation and improve long-term reliability. The MET2 system can also be used with third-party EtherCAT masters, giving machine builders additional flexibility when adding distributed I/O.

The AK Series combines stepper and servo control into one drive platform. Image used courtesy of Applied Motion Products

Flexible Motion Control

Applied Motion also introduced the AK Series StepSERVO motors and drives, which support open-loop stepper, closed-loop stepper, and full closed-loop servo operation within the same drive platform. The drives are available for NEMA 11 through NEMA 34 motors and operate from 24 VDC to 48 VDC.

The AK Series uses a battery-free 17-bit multi-turn absolute encoder that is capable of retaining position through power cycles, which, in turn, eliminates the need for homing routines at startup. Additional features include secondary encoder feedback for full closed-loop load control, embedded trajectory planning and Q programming, USB-C setup and diagnostics without main power, and SiL3-certified Safe Torque Off.

Communication options include EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, CANopen, and Modbus, while Stepper Suite II software provides drive configuration, diagnostics, and real-time monitoring.

Common Software and Networking

Applied Motion Products designed the MCA6, MET2, and AK Series to work together through a common software environment and shared industrial communication protocols. McEngine Pro provides a single programming platform, while EtherCAT serves as the backbone for machine control, distributed I/O, and motion control. Support for additional industrial protocols also makes it easier to integrate the products into existing automation systems.

With the MCA6 Motion PLC, MET2 Remote I/O System, and AK Series StepSERVO drives, Applied Motion Products is expanding its automation portfolio with scalable machine control, distributed I/O, and motion products. Together, the three platforms give machine builders a common foundation for developing automation systems while reducing integration effort across a range of machine sizes and applications.