THORLABS TSC001 User manual

TSC001
T-Cube Solenoid Controller
User Guide

2 HA0145T Rev 13 Sept 2016
Contents
Chapter 1 Safety ............................................................................................. 4
1.1 Safety Information .................................................................................. 4
1.2 General Warnings .................................................................................. 4
Chapter 2 Overview and Setup ..................................................................... 5
2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................. 5
2.2 T-Cube Controller Hub ........................................................................... 6
2.3 APT PC Software Overview ................................................................... 7
2.3.1 Introduction .........................................................................................................7
2.3.2 APTUser Utility ...................................................................................................8
2.3.3 APT Config Utility ...............................................................................................9
2.3.4 APT Server (ActiveX Controls) .........................................................................10
2.3.5 Software Upgrades ...........................................................................................11
Chapter 3 Getting Started ............................................................................ 12
3.1 Install The Software .............................................................................. 12
3.2 Mechanical Installation ......................................................................... 13
3.2.1 Environmental Conditions ................................................................................13
3.2.2 Mounting Options .............................................................................................13
3.2.3 Removing the Baseplate ..................................................................................14
3.3 Electrical Installation ............................................................................. 15
3.3.1 Supply Voltage and Current Requirements ......................................................15
3.3.2 Connecting a Solenoid .....................................................................................15
3.3.3 Using The TCH002 Controller Hub ..................................................................15
3.3.4 Connecting To A Standalone Power Supply ....................................................16
3.4 Connect The Hardware ........................................................................ 17
3.4.1 Using an External Trigger .................................................................................18
3.4.2 Using the Safety Interlock ................................................................................18
3.5 Verifying Software Operation ............................................................... 19
3.5.1 Initial Setup .......................................................................................................19
Chapter 4 Standalone Operation ................................................................ 21
4.1 Introduction 21
4.2 Front Panel Controls and Indicators .................................................... 21
4.3 Using the Front Panel Buttons ............................................................. 22
4.4 Operation From The Front Panel ......................................................... 24
4.4.1 Preparation .......................................................................................................24
4.4.2 Manual Mode ....................................................................................................24
4.4.3 Auto Mode ........................................................................................................24
Continued...

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T-Cube Solenoid Controller
Chapter 5 PC Operation - Tutorial ............................................................. 25
5.1 Preparation ...........................................................................................25
5.2 Using the APT User Utility ....................................................................25
5.2.1 Setting Manual Mode ....................................................................................... 26
5.2.2 Setting Auto Mode ........................................................................................... 26
5.3 Creating a Simulated Configuration Using APT Config ........................27
5.4 Introduction To Solenoid Controller Programming ...............................29
Chapter 6 Software Reference .................................................................... 30
6.1 Introduction ...........................................................................................30
6.2 GUI Panel .............................................................................................30
6.3 Settings Panel ......................................................................................32
6.3.1 Settings Tab ..................................................................................................... 32
Appendices
Appendix A Rear Panel Connector Pinout Details .................................... 33
Appendix B Preventive Maintenance .......................................................... 34
Appendix C Specifications and Associated Parts .................................... 35
Appendix D Motor Control Method Summary ........................................... 36
Appendix E Regulatory ................................................................................ 37
Appendix F Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts ................................................ 39

4
Chapter 1 Safety
1.1 Safety Information
For the continuing safety of the operators of this equipment, and the protection of the
equipment itself, the operator should take note of the Warnings, Cautions and Notes
throughout this handbook and, where visible, on the product itself.
The following safety symbols may be used throughout the handbook and on the
equipment itself.
1.2 General Warnings
Shock Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury from electrical shock.
Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury to users.
Caution
Given when there is a risk of damage to the product.
Note
Clarification of an instruction or additional information.
Warnings
If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. In particular,
excessive moisture may impair operation.
Spillage of fluid, such as sample solutions, should be avoided. If spillage does
occur, clean up immediately using absorbant tissue. Do not allow spilled fluid
to enter the internal mechanism.

5
Chapter 2 Overview and Setup
2.1 Introduction
The T-Cube Solenoid Controller (TSC001) is a new very compact single channel
controller for easy manual and automated control of solenoid operated shutters, and
other such devices. Designed to operate 15V solenoid actuated devices, this mini
controller is fully featured, possessing an embedded DSP processor to provide a
multitude of flexible operating modes.
Embedded software functionality allow this unit to be used to control solenoid devices
manually (using panel buttons), automatically with DSP timed operation, or via
external trigger signals for operation with third party equipment. A trigger out
connection allows multiple T-Cube controllers to be connected together for multi-
channel ‘synchronised’ operation.
For convenience the footprint of this unit has been kept to a minimum, measuring only
60mm x 60mm x 47mm (2.4" x 2.4" x 1.8") and with the facility to directly mount to the
optical table. The manual controls for this unit are conveniently located on the upper
surface such as the ‘Mode’ and ‘Enable’ buttons. The Mode button allows the various
operating modes to be selected easily and the Enable button is used to initiate manual
or automatic operation of the solenoid controller output. There is also a safety key
switch and interlock plug fitted to this compact unit for use in laser safety applications .
Fig. 2.1 T-Cube Solenoid Controller

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Chapter 2
USB connectivity provides easy 'Plug and Play' PC controlled operation - multiple
units can be connected to a single PC via standard USB hub technology or by using
the new T-Cube Controller Hub (see Section 2.2.) for multi-axis motion control
applications. Coupling this with the very user friendly apt™ software (supplied) allows
the user to very quickly get up and running with complex operating sequences in a
short space of time. Custom control applications and sequences are also possible
using the extensive ActiveX® programming environment also supplied. This
programming library is compatible with many development tools such as LabView,
Visual Basic, Visual C++, C++ Builder, LabWindows/CVI, Matlab and Delphi.
For power, a compact multi-way power supply unit (TPS008) is available from
Thorlabs allowing up to 8 T-Cube Drivers to be powered from a single mains outlet.
This power supply unit is also designed to take up minimal space and can be mounted
to the optical table in close proximity to the driver units, connected via short power
leads. A single way wall plug supply (OPS001) is also available for powering a single
T-Cube Driver.
In the remainder of this handbook, operation of the unit is described for both front
panel and PC operation. Tutorial sections (Chapter 4 and Chapter 5) provide a good
initial understanding on using the unit and reference section (Chapter 6) covers all
operating modes and parameters in detail.
2.2 T-Cube Controller Hub
As a further level of convenience when using the new T-Cube Controllers Thorlabs
also offers the new T-Cube Controller Hub (TCH002). This product has been
designed specifically with multiple T-Cube operation in mind in order to simplify issues
such as cable management, power supply routing, multiple USB device
communications and different optical table mounting scenarios.
The T-Cube Controller Hub comprises a slim base-plate type carrier (375mm x 86mm
x 21.5mm, 14.75” x 3.4” x 0.85”) with electrical connections located on the upper
surface to accept up to six T-Cubes.
Internally the Controller Hub contains a fully compliant USB 2.0 hub circuit to provide
communications for all six T-Cubes – a single USB connection to the Controller Hub
is all that is required for PC control. The Controller Hub also provides power
distribution for up to six T-Cubes, requiring only a single power connection (from a
separate supply unit TPS006 supplied by Thorlabs).

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T-Cube Solenoid Controller
2.3 APT PC Software Overview
2.3.1 Introduction
As a member of the APT range of controllers, the TSC001 Solenoid Driver T-Cube
shares many of the associated software benefits. This includes USB connectivity
(allowing multiple units to be used together on a single PC), fully featured Graphical
User Interface (GUI) panels, and extensive software function libraries for custom
application development.
The APT software suite supplied with all APT controllers provides a flexible and
powerful PC based control system both for users of the equipment, and software
programmers aiming to automate its operation.
For users, the APTUser (see Section 2.3.2.) and APTConfig (see Section 2.3.3.)
utilities allow full control of all settings and operating modes enabling complete ‘out-
of-box’ operation without the need to develop any further custom software. Both
utilities are built on top of a sophisticated, multi-threaded ActiveX ‘engine’ (called the
APT server) which provides all of the necessary APT system software services such
as generation of GUI panels, communications handling for multiple USB units, and
logging of all system activity to assist in hardware trouble shooting. It is this APT
server ‘engine’ that is used by software developers to allow the creation of advanced
automated positioning applications very rapidly and with great ease. The APT server
is described in more detail in Section 2.3.4.
Aside
ActiveX®, a Windows®-based, language-independent technology, allows a user
to quickly develop custom applications that automate the control of APT system
hardware units. Development environments supported by ActiveX® technology
include Visual Basic®, LabView™, Borland C++ Builder, Visual C++, Delphi™,
and many others. ActiveX® technology is also supported by .NET development
environments such as Visual Basic.NET and Visual C#.NET.
ActiveX controls are a specific form of ActiveX technology that provide both a user
interface and a programming interface. An ActiveX control is supplied for each
type of APT hardware unit to provide specific controller functionality to the
software developer. See Section 2.3.4. for further details.

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Chapter 2
2.3.2 APTUser Utility
The APTUser application allows the user to interact with a number of APT hardware
control units connected to the host PC. This program displays multiple graphical
instrument panels to allow multiple APT units to be controlled simultaneously.
All basic operating parameters can be altered and, similarly, all operations (such as
manual or automatic solenoid operation) can be initiated. Settings and parameter
changes can be saved and loaded to allow multiple operating configurations to be
created and easily applied.
For many users, the APTUser application provides all of the functionality necessary
to operate the APT hardware without the need to develop any further custom
software. For those who do need to further customise and automate usage of the
Solenoid Controller T-Cube, this application illustrates how the rich functionality
provided by the APT ActiveX server is exposed by a client application.
Use of the APT User utility is covered in the PC tutorial (Chapter 5) and in the
APTUser online help file, accessed via the F1 key when using the APTUser utility.

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T-Cube Solenoid Controller
2.3.3 APT Config Utility
There are many system parameters and configuration settings associated with the
operation of the APT Server. Most can be directly accessed using the various
graphical panels, however there are several system wide settings that can be made
'off-line' before running the APT software. These settings have global effect; such as
switching between simulator and real operating mode, associating mechanical stages
to specific motor actuators and incorporation of calibration data.
The APTConfig utility is provided as a convenient means for making these system
wide settings and adjustments. Full details on using APTConfig are provided in the
online help supplied with the utility.
Use of the APT Config utility is covered in the PC tutorial (Chapter 5) and in the
APTConfig online help file, accessed via the F1 key when using the APTConfig utility.

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Chapter 2
2.3.4 APT Server (ActiveX Controls)
ActiveX Controls are re-usable compiled software components that supply both a
graphical user interface and a programmable interface. Many such Controls are
available for Windows applications development, providing a large range of re-usable
functionality. For example, there are Controls available that can be used to
manipulate image files, connect to the internet or simply provide user interface
components such as buttons and list boxes.
With the APT system, ActiveX Controls are deployed to allow direct control over (and
also reflect the status of) the range of electronic controller units, including the
Solenoid Driver T-Cube. Software applications that use ActiveX Controls are often
referred to as 'client applications'. Based on ActiveX interfacing technology, an
ActiveX Control is a language independent software component. Consequently
ActiveX Controls can be incorporated into a wide range of software development
environments for use by client application developers. Development environments
supported include Visual Basic, Labview, Visual C++, C++ Builder, HPVEE, Matlab,
VB.NET, C#.NET
and, via VBA, Microsoft Office applications such as Excel and Word.
Consider the ActiveX Control supplied for the T-Cube Solenoid Controller unit.
This Control provides a complete user graphical instrument panel to allow the unit to
be manually operated, as well as a complete set of software functions (often called
methods) to allow all parameters to be set and operation to be automated by a client
application. The instrument panel reflects the current operating state of the controller
unit to which it is associated (such as Interlock state). Updates to the panel take place
automatically when a user is operating the unit manually.

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T-Cube Solenoid Controller
The APT ActiveX Controls collection provides a rich set of graphical user panels and
programmable interfaces allowing users and client application developers to interact
seamlessly with the APT hardware. Each of the APT controllers has an associated
ActiveX Control and these are described fully in system online help or the handbooks
associated with the controllers. Note that the APTUser and APTConfig utilities take
advantage of and are built on top of the powerful functionality provided by the APT
ActiveX Server (as shown in Fig. 2.2).
Fig. 2.2 System Architecture Diagram
Refer to the main APT Software online help file, APTServer.hlp, for a complete
programmers guide and reference material on using the APT ActiveX Controls
collection. This is available either by pressing the F1 key when running the APT
server, or via the Start menu, Start\Programs\Thorlabs\APT\APT Help.
Additional software developer support is provided by the APT Support CD supplied
with every APT controller. This CD contains a complete range of tutorial samples and
coding hints and tips, together with handbooks for all the APT controllers.
2.3.5 Software Upgrades
Thorlabs operate a policy of continuous product development and may issue software
upgrades as necessary.

12
Chapter 3 Getting Started
3.1 Install The Software
DO NOT CONNECT THE CONTROLLER TO YOUR PC YET
1) Go to Services/Downloads at www.thorlabs.com and download the software.
2) Run the .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions.
3) Follow the on-screen instructions.
Note
This section is applicable only if the T-Cube is to be used with a PC. If
your application consists only of local operation via the T-Cube front
face, proceed to Section 3.4.
When operating via a PC, direct user interaction with the solenoid
controller is accomplished through intuitive graphical user interface
panels (GUIs), which expose all key operating parameters and modes.
The multitasking software architecture ensures that the graphical control
panels always remain live, showing all current hardware activity.
Caution
Some PCs may have been configured to restrict the users ability to load
software, and on these systems the software may not install/run. If you are
in any doubt about your rights to install/run software, please consult your
system administrator before attempting to install.
If you experience any problems when installing software, contact Thorlabs on
[phone] and ask for Technical Support.

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T-Cube Solenoid Controller
3.2 Mechanical Installation
3.2.1 Environmental Conditions
Location Indoor use only
Maximum altitude 2000 m
Temperature range 5oC to 40oC
Maximum Humidity Less than 80% RH (non-condensing) at 31°C
To ensure reliable operation the unit should not be exposed to corrosive agents or
excessive moisture, heat or dust.
If the unit has been stored at a low temperature or in an environment of high humidity,
it must be allowed to reach ambient conditions before being powered up.
3.2.2 Mounting Options
The T-Cube Solenoid Controller is shipped with a baseplate fitted, ready to be bolted
to a breadboard, optical table or similar surface.
If desired, the baseplate can be removed and the unit can be stood on rubber feet -
see Section 3.2.3.
For multiple cube systems, a USB controller hub (TCH002) is available - see Section
2.2. for further details. Full instructions on the fitting and use of the controller hub are
contained in handbook ha0146 T-Cube Controller Hub, available from
www.thorlabs.com.
Warning
Operation outside the following environmental limits may adversely affect
operator safety.
Caution
When siting the unit, it should be positioned so as not to impede the
operation of the control panel buttons.
Ensure that proper airflow is maintained to the rear of the unit.

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Chapter 3
3.2.3 Removing the Baseplate
The baseplate must be removed before the rubber feet (supplied) can be fitted, or the
unit is connected to the USB controller hub..
Fig. 3.1 Removing The Baseplate
Using a hexagon key, remove the bolts securing the unit to the baseplate. Retain the
bolts for future use if the baseplate is refitted.
4) Invert the unit.
5) Remove the backing paper from the rubber feet (supplied) taking care not to touch
the exposed adhesive surface.
6) Position the feet as desired, then press and hold for a few seconds until the
adhesive has bonded.
7) The unit may now be used freestanding, sitting on its rubber feet.
Detail A Detail B
Baseplate removed and rubber feet fittedBaseplate attachment screws

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T-Cube Solenoid Controller
3.3 Electrical Installation
3.3.1 Supply Voltage and Current Requirements
Power supply requirements are detailed in the table below.
3.3.2 Connecting a Solenoid
Fig. 3.2 Rear Panel Connections
The solenoid is connected via the 6-way HiRose connector, which is compatible with
all Thorlabs solenoid-actuated shutters (refer to Appendix A for details of pin outs).
Two SMA connectors provide connection to Trigger In and Trigger Out signals. The
TRIG IN is a 5V TTL type input. The TRIG OUT is an open collector pulled up to 5V.
The unit also features an Interlock connector, for use in laser safety applications - see
Section 3.4.2.
3.3.3 Using The TCH002 Controller Hub
The TCH002 USB Controller Hub provides power distribution for up to six T-Cubes,
and requires only a single power connection (from a separate supply unit TPS006
supplied by Thorlabs). Further details are contained in handbook ha0146T T-Cube
Controller Hub, available from www.thorlabs.com.
Supply Minimum Maximum Max Operating Current
15V +14.5V +15.5V 1 A
Shock Warning
DO NOT PLUG A POWERED UP T-CUBE INTO THE TCH002 USB
CONTROLLER HUB. Always ensure that all power is disconnected from
the Solenoid Driver T-Cube AND the hub before the T-Cube is plugged
into the hub. Failure to observe this precaution will seriously damage the
T-Cube unit and could result in personal injury.
TRIG OUT TRIG INSOLENOID
INTERLOCK

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Chapter 3
3.3.4 Connecting To A Standalone Power Supply
Fig. 3.3 Front Panel Power Supply Connector
1) Using the front panel connector as shown above, connect the unit to a regulated
DC power supply of the rating detailed in Section 3.3.1.
2) Switch on the Power Supply unit.
Warning
The unit must be connected only to a DC supply of the rating detailed in
Section 3.3.1. Connection to a supply of a different rating may cause damage
to the unit and could result in injury to the operator. Thorlabs offers a compact,
multi-way power supply unit (TPS008), allowing up to eight T-Cube Controllers
to be powered from a single mains outlet. A single way wall plug supply
(TPS001) for powering a single Driver T-Cube is also available.
Caution
The Solenoid Controller unit should not be connected to a 'live' external
power supply. Always power up the unit by connecting its power supply
to the mains. Similarly, to power down the unit, disconnect the power
supply from the mains before disconnecting the unit.
USB
DC 15V 1A
_
+

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T-Cube Solenoid Controller
3.4 Connect The Hardware
1) Perform the mechanical installation as detailed in Section 3.2.
2) Connect the solenoid to the Controller unit - see Section 3.3.2.
3) Connect the Controller unit to the power supply - see Section 3.3.
4) Connect the INTERLOCK jack plug - seeSection 3.4.2.
5) Connect the PSU to the main supply and switch ‘ON’.
6) Turn ON the key switch.
7) Connect the Controller unit to your PC.
8) WindowsTM should detect the new hardware. Wait while WindowsTM installs the
drivers for the new hardware - see the Getting Started guide for more information.
9) Run the APTUser utility
Start/All Programs/Thorlabs/APT/APT User.
10)Your T-Cube Solenoid Controller is now ready for use.
Warning
IF USING THE TCH002 CONTROLLER HUB. During item (3), do not plug a
the T-Cube unit into a powered up controller hub. Always ensure that all
power is disconnected from the Solenoid Controller T-Cube AND the hub
before the T-Cube is plugged into the hub. Failure to observe this
precaution will seriously damage the T-Cube unit and could result in
personal injury.
Note
The USB cable should be no more than 3 metres in length.
Communication lengths in excess of 3 metres can be achieved by using
a powered USB hub).

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Chapter 3
3.4.1 Using an External Trigger
To use the external trigger, the unit must be set to Triggered mode - see Section 4.3.
In Triggered mode, a rising edge (logic high) on rear panel TRIG IN BNC input will
open the shutter, which will remain open until a falling edge (logic low) is detected. In
this way, the shutter can be opened and closed in relation to the duty cycle of the
trigger input signal. The unit must be primed (i.e. the ENABLE button has been
pressed) before the unit can respond to the external trigger.
3.4.2 Using the Safety Interlock
To comply with laser safety regulations, the Solenoid Controller T-Cube is fitted with
a remote INTERLOCK connector located on the rear panel (see Fig. 3.2). A short
circuit must be applied across the terminals of this connector before the unit can be
enabled.
An INTERLOCK jack plug is supplied with the unit to close this connection.
Alternatively, the contact can be controlled externally; the user can use a custom
Warning
In external triggering mode, the shutter is opened and closed under
control of an external logic signal, connected to the SMA input marked
“TRIG IN” on the rear panel. The way in which the unit responds when the
‘TRIG IN’ connector is open circuit differs between early and later models.
This is particularly important in applications where a shutter is used to
enable or disable a laser light source.
Below serial number 85810830: the ‘TRIG IN’ SMA defaults to logic HIGH
when there is nothing driving this input, i.e. if the TSC001 unit is enabled,
the shutter will open.
Serial number 85810830 and above: the ‘TRIG IN’ SMA defaults to logic
LOW, so the trigger is disabled when the external input is open circuit
(disconnected), i.e. the solenoid is disabled/closed.
The ENABLE button must be pressed for the shutter opening to be
enabled, so a disconnected input in itself cannot cause the shutter to
open. However, understanding this feature of the TSC001 is particularly
important for customers using the TSC001 cube in an application where
the shutter opening due to a disconnected EXT TRIG input can have
safety implications.
Caution
If it is controlled externally, the INTERLOCK contact is taking solenoid-
type currents. This current is dependent upon the solenoid being driven
but could as high as 2A peak.

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T-Cube Solenoid Controller
3.5mm jackplug connected to a remote actuated (normally open) switch (e.g. an open
door indicator), which must be closed before the unit can operate.
3.5 Verifying Software Operation
3.5.1 Initial Setup
1) Install the APT software as detailed in Section 3.1.
2) Connect the Controller to the solenoid (see Section 3.3.) and the PC, then switch
ON. Wait several seconds for the system to settle.
3) Run the APTUser utility and check that the Graphical User Interface (GUI) panel
appears and is active.
Fig. 3.4 Gui panel showing jog and ident buttons
4) Click the ‘Ident’ button. The Power LED on the control panel of the associated
controller flashes. This is useful in multi-channel systems for identifying which
channel is associated with which GUI.
5) Click the ‘Mode’ button until the ‘Manual’ LED is lit, then Click the ON and OFF
Output buttons and check that the solenoid connected to the Solenoid Controller
T-Cube responds.
Caution
If the unit is being operated in a trigger mode, the interlock controls the
output of the master unit in the normal way. However, if the interlock is
removed from the master unit, the slave unit will still function unless its
interlock is also removed.

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Chapter 3
Follow the tutorial steps described in Chapter 4 for further verification of operation.
Note
The 'APT Config' utility can be used to set up simulated hardware
configurations and place the APT Server into simulator mode. In this way
it is possible to create any number and type of simulated (virtual)
hardware units in order to emulate a set of real hardware. This is a
particularly useful feature, designed as an aid to application program
development and testing. Any number of 'virtual' control units are
combined to build a model of the real system, which can then be used to
test the application software offline.
If using real hardware, ensure that Simulator Mode is disabled. If using a
simulated setup, enable Simulator Mode and set up a ‘Simulated
Configuration’ - see Section 5.3. or the APTConfig helpfile for detailed
instructions.