
ELL6(K), ELL9(K), and ELL12(K) Optic Slider Kits Chapter 5: Troubleshooting and FAQ
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Chapter 5 Troubleshooting and FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Stage is moving back and forth after power up.
If the digital line “bw” is driven low before powering up the stage, the module will go into calibration mode.
Remove power to exit calibration mode. Keep line tight up to 3.3V or 5V rail during power up or use a serial
communication line instead.
Stage not moving.
Check power supply lines ratings (polarity, voltage drop or range, available current) or reduce cable length.
Check module is not in boot loader mode (power cycle the module to exit boot loader) consumption must be
higher than 36mA at 5V.
Stage does not complete homing commands.
Power cycle the unit.
Perform a frequency search on both motors.
Stage switching time increased / max load decreased.
Check power supply voltage provided on J2 connector (see Figure 8), increase voltage within specified limits if
voltage drop along cable goes below 5V during system operation.
Clean the moving surfaces. To avoid grease contamination, do not touch the moving parts.
Temperature change may affect the stage performance. Using the software to perform a frequency search will
compensate frequency as needed (required current could reach 1.2 A during frequency search, use an
additional 5V 2A power supply and a USB connection).
Integrators should search for optimal frequency on every power up sequence
(commands “s1”, “s2” see ELLx protocol document)
How do I restore the factory (default) settings
Factory settings can be restored at any time – see Section 4.5.
What is the product lifetime?
Product lifetime is restricted by the wearing of moving surfaces and the motor contact as motion is started
(due to resonance build up) and performed (due to friction) and is expressed in km travelled. Lifetime will
depend on several factors (e.g., load, number of homing operations, number of frequency searches etc.) and
users must consider all these factors when considering lifetime. For example, homing requires more travel
than a simple motion, and a frequency search may not generate any motion at all, but still energizes the
motors fully.
The unit is not designed for continuous operation. Users should aim for a duty cycle of less than 40% wherever
possible, and never exceed a duty cycle of 60% for longer than a few seconds.
The minimum lifetime is 100 km.
Handling
The equipment is susceptible to damage from electrostatic discharge. When handling the device, anti-
static precautions must be taken, and suitable discharge appliances must be worn.
The stage and interface board are robust to general handling. To ensure reliable operation, keep the surface
of the plastic track contacted by the motors free of oils, dirt, and dust. It is not necessary to wear gloves while
handling the stage but avoid touching the track to keep it free of oils from fingerprints. If it is necessary to
clean the track, it may be wiped with isopropyl alcohol or mineral spirits (white spirit). Do not use acetone, as
this solvent will damage the plastic track.