Sanyo Denki Adds EtherCAT to New Multi-Axis Stepping Drivers

Sanyo Denki has expanded its Sanmotion F lineup with two- and four-axis integrated stepping drivers that combine EtherCAT communication with multi-axis motion control. The F5PFD280E200 and F5PFD280E400 reduce volume per axis by more than 30% and mass per axis by more than 20% compared with separate single-axis drivers, while delivering up to 17% more torque and 20% less vibration when paired with compatible stepping motors. Designed for applications including semiconductor equipment, conveyor robots, electronic component mounting, and medical equipment, the drivers also provide synchronized motion, S-curve acceleration and deceleration, data logging, and motor analysis functions.

Sanyo Denki’s Sanmotion F multi-axis stepping drivers are available in two-axis and four-axis configurations, with an optional cover for the two-axis model. Image used courtesy of Sanyo Denki

Sanyo Denki’s new drivers, the F5PFD280E200 and F5PFD280E400, are intended for equipment that relies on precise positioning across multiple axes in industries such as semiconductor manufacturing systems, conveyor robots, electronic component mounting machines, and medical equipment. By combining multiple motor drivers into a single unit, Sanyo Denki aims to reduce installation space and equipment weight while improving motion performance.

Higher Torque in a Smaller Package

The new lineup includes the F5PFD280E200 two-axis driver and the F5PFD280E400 four-axis driver. Both operate from a 24 VDC supply for their main and control circuits. The two-axis model measures 160 × 79 × 22 mm and weighs 0.2 kg, while the four-axis version measures 180 × 108 × 22 mm and weighs 0.36 kg.

Compared with using two or four separate single-axis drivers, the integrated units reduce volume per axis by more than 30% and mass per axis by more than 20%, helping reduce cabinet space and equipment weight. When paired with compatible Sanyo Denki stepping motors, the drivers also deliver up to 17% more torque than the company's previous Sanmotion F5 configuration. The added torque can shorten positioning and machine cycle times, especially in applications with frequent starts, stops, and repeated positioning movements.

EtherCAT Communication and Smoother Motion

Sanyo Denki’s new 2-axis and 4-axis integrated types will use EtherCAT for motion commands and real-time monitoring. Sanyo Denki's proprietary control technology supports high-precision synchronization across multiple axes, allowing coordinated movements in machines that require several motors to operate together.

Semiconductor manufacturing equipment requires precise positioning and smooth motion during wafer processing. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock

The drivers also reduce operating vibration by 20% compared with the previous Sanmotion F5 configuration when used with the company's stepping motors. S-curve acceleration and deceleration provide smoother changes in motor speed, helping reduce equipment vibration and noise while improving positioning accuracy. Built-in data logging and motor operation analysis functions give engineers additional information when setting up equipment or investigating motion-related problems.

Both models support five-phase stepping motors with frame sizes of 28, 42, and 60 mm and rated currents from 0.75 to 2.8 A per phase. They also support two-phase motors with frame sizes of 28, 35, 42, 56, and 60 mm and rated currents from 1 to 4 A per phase. Engineers can use five-phase and two-phase motors together, giving them more flexibility when selecting motors for individual axes.

The drivers can minimize vibration by up to 20% for sensitive tasks. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock

The new Sanmotion F drivers combine multi-axis control, EtherCAT communication, and improved motion performance in two compact units. They reduce installation space and the number of individual drivers needed while providing more flexibility for coordinating multiple stepping motors. Both models are also certified under Sanyo Denki’s Eco Products Plus program, which evaluates factors such as product size, weight, power consumption, and lifecycle emissions.