Festo has launched an intelligent stepper motor controller which employs encoder-based feedback to deliver true servo functionality using stepper motor technology. Designed primarily for cost-sensitive applications that demand servo functionality but without needing high peak speeds – such as toothed belt driven actuators – the CMMS-ST controller and EMMS-ST stepper motor combination delivers up to 6.5Nm torque and speeds up to 2000rpm. It is suitable for single and multi-axis applications with loads up to 20kg. The CMMS-ST comprises a positioning controller, power output stage, and all necessary control interfaces. It features a built-in CANopen fieldbus interface as standard, with all bus settings controlled via front panel DIP switches. DeviceNet and Profibus interfaces are also available, and are supplied as field-replaceable plug-in modules. All set-up parameters – including complete move profiles defining velocity, acceleration and deceleration – are developed off-line on a PC, using Festo’s intuitive Windows-based FCT software, and then downloaded to the controller. As many as 64 move profiles can be stored on the controller, and linked together, so that entire motion control sequences can be executed entirely independently of the host PLC.