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SMC-4P(PCI)

UPCI 4 axis stepper controller Card
  • Manufacturer Contec
  • Category: Motion Control / EtherCAT PCI
  • The CONTEC SMC‑4P(PCI) is a high‑speed, four‑axis motion control board designed for precise control of stepping or pulse‑input type servo motors. It provides advanced motion sequencing, frame‑based positioning, and synchronized multi‑axis control capabilities within a standard PCI bus environment. The board is part of CONTEC’s industrial automation product line, optimized for PC‑based motion control applications in manufacturing, robotics, and precision instrumentation.
- Four‑Axis Motion Control: Supports simultaneous control of up to four independent motor axes.
- High‑Speed Pulse Output: Generates pulse trains from 0.1 pps to 1 Mpps, suitable for high‑resolution stepper or servo motor control.
- Frame‑Based Positioning Memory: Stores up to 1,000 frames, each containing motion parameters such as target position, velocity, acceleration, and deceleration rates.
- Synchronized Multi‑Axis Operation: Allows synchronization of up to 64 axes across multiple boards for coordinated motion sequences.
- Linear Interpolation Control: Enables smooth, coordinated motion between multiple axes for contouring or path‑following applications.
- Opto‑Isolated Inputs: Provides electrical isolation for encoder, limit switch, and general‑purpose inputs to protect against noise and voltage surges.
- Flexible Pulse Output Modes: Supports 2‑pulse (CW/CCW) and common‑pulse (Pulse/Direction) formats, selectable via software.
- Software‑Selectable Logic: Output logic can be configured as positive or negative to match external drive requirements.
- High‑Speed Encoder Feedback: Accepts single‑phase (UP/DOWN/Z) or two‑phase (A/B/Z) encoder signals with a maximum input frequency of 1 MHz.
- Comprehensive Limit and Origin Inputs: Each axis includes 3 opto‑isolated limit inputs (ORG, +LIM, –LIM) for precise homing and travel limit detection.
- General‑Purpose I/O: Provides 7 opto‑isolated general‑purpose inputs and 3 open‑collector outputs for auxiliary control and status signaling.
- Compact PCI Form Factor: Standard PCI board size for easy integration into industrial PCs.
- Windows API Support: Includes API‑PAC(W32) driver library for Windows, enabling direct control via Win32 API functions.
- Industrial Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in industrial environments with robust electrical isolation and noise immunity.

Country of origin: Japan

Customs tariff number: 8473 3020 000

Comprehensive Product Summary – SMC‑4P(PCI) 4‑Axis Stepper Controller Card




### 1. Product Overview

Product Name: SMC‑4P(PCI)
Model Number: SMC‑4P(PCI)
Series: UPCI Motion Controller Series
Article Number: SMC‑4P(PCI)
Manufacturer: CONTEC Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Product Type: 4‑Axis Stepper/Servo Motor Controller Card for PCI Bus Systems
Category: Motion Controller / Counter & Motion Control Interface Board
Bus Interface: PCI (32‑bit, 33 MHz, 5 V)
Product Dimensions: 176.41 mm (L) × 106.68 mm (H)
RoHS Compliance: Yes (Pb‑free and RoHS‑compliant marking on product)

The CONTEC SMC‑4P(PCI) is a high‑speed, four‑axis motion control board designed for precise control of stepping or pulse‑input type servo motors. It provides advanced motion sequencing, frame‑based positioning, and synchronized multi‑axis control capabilities within a standard PCI bus environment. The board is part of CONTEC’s industrial automation product line, optimized for PC‑based motion control applications in manufacturing, robotics, and precision instrumentation.




### 2. Key Features

- Four‑Axis Motion Control: Supports simultaneous control of up to four independent motor axes.
- High‑Speed Pulse Output: Generates pulse trains from 0.1 pps to 1 Mpps, suitable for high‑resolution stepper or servo motor control.
- Frame‑Based Positioning Memory: Stores up to 1,000 frames, each containing motion parameters such as target position, velocity, acceleration, and deceleration rates.
- Synchronized Multi‑Axis Operation: Allows synchronization of up to 64 axes across multiple boards for coordinated motion sequences.
- Linear Interpolation Control: Enables smooth, coordinated motion between multiple axes for contouring or path‑following applications.
- Opto‑Isolated Inputs: Provides electrical isolation for encoder, limit switch, and general‑purpose inputs to protect against noise and voltage surges.
- Flexible Pulse Output Modes: Supports 2‑pulse (CW/CCW) and common‑pulse (Pulse/Direction) formats, selectable via software.
- Software‑Selectable Logic: Output logic can be configured as positive or negative to match external drive requirements.
- High‑Speed Encoder Feedback: Accepts single‑phase (UP/DOWN/Z) or two‑phase (A/B/Z) encoder signals with a maximum input frequency of 1 MHz.
- Comprehensive Limit and Origin Inputs: Each axis includes 3 opto‑isolated limit inputs (ORG, +LIM, –LIM) for precise homing and travel limit detection.
- General‑Purpose I/O: Provides 7 opto‑isolated general‑purpose inputs and 3 open‑collector outputs for auxiliary control and status signaling.
- Compact PCI Form Factor: Standard PCI board size for easy integration into industrial PCs.
- Windows API Support: Includes API‑PAC(W32) driver library for Windows, enabling direct control via Win32 API functions.
- Industrial Reliability: Designed for continuous operation in industrial environments with robust electrical isolation and noise immunity.




### 3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|------------------|
| Number of Controlled Axes | 4 independent axes |
| Pulse Output Type | Open collector output (software‑selectable logic polarity) |
| Pulse Output Format | 2‑pulse (CW/CCW) or common‑pulse (Pulse/Direction) |
| Pulse Output Rate | 0.1 pps – 1,000,000 pps (1 Mpps) |
| Output Rating | +35 V DC, 100 mA per channel |
| Encoder Input Type | High‑speed opto‑isolated input |
| Encoder Signal Format | Single‑phase (UP/DOWN/Z) or two‑phase (A/B/Z) |
| Encoder Input Frequency | 1 MHz maximum |
| Encoder Input Resistance | A/B: 220 Ω ± 10%; Z: 510 Ω ± 10% |
| Limit Switch Inputs | 3 signals per axis (ORG, +LIM, –LIM) |
| Limit Input Type | Opto‑isolated (12 – 24 V DC) |
| Limit Input Resistance | 3 kΩ |
| General‑Purpose Inputs | 7 signals, opto‑isolated (12 – 24 V DC) |
| General Input Resistance | IN1, IN3–IN7: 3 kΩ; IN2: 1.8 kΩ |
| General‑Purpose Outputs | 3 signals per axis, open collector |
| Output Rating | +35 V DC, 100 mA |
| Controller Chip | PCL5014 [NPM] or equivalent |
| Interrupts | Programmable (any 16‑byte boundary) |
| Power Consumption | +5 V DC ± 5%, 900 mA (max.) |
| Bus Interface | PCI (32‑bit, 33 MHz, 5 V) |
| Board Dimensions | 176.41 mm (L) × 106.68 mm (H) |
| Connector Type | 96‑pin Half‑Pitch (PCR‑E96LMD [HONDA Tsushin Kogyo] or equivalent) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 °C – 50 °C (typical industrial range) |
| Storage Temperature | –20 °C – 60 °C |
| Relative Humidity | 10 – 90% RH (non‑condensing) |
| Compliance | RoHS, Pb‑free, CE marking (where applicable) |




### 4. Functionality

The SMC‑4P(PCI) functions as a four‑axis motion controller that outputs pulse trains corresponding to programmed motion profiles. Each axis can be independently configured for position, velocity, and acceleration parameters. The board’s onboard frame memory allows pre‑loading of up to 1,000 motion frames, enabling complex multi‑step motion sequences without continuous CPU intervention.

Operating Principle:
- The host PC sends motion commands via the PCI bus using the provided API library.
- The controller generates corresponding pulse signals to drive external stepper or servo amplifiers.
- Encoder feedback inputs monitor actual motor position and speed for closed‑loop verification.
- Limit switch inputs ensure safe operation by detecting mechanical travel limits and origin positions.
- General‑purpose I/O lines can be used for interlocks, status monitoring, or external device control.

Typical Applications:
- Multi‑axis positioning systems in semiconductor or electronics assembly.
- CNC or pick‑and‑place robotics requiring synchronized motion.
- Automated inspection and measurement systems.
- Laboratory automation and precision stage control.
- Packaging, labeling, or dispensing machinery with coordinated motion requirements.

Compatibility:
- Compatible with standard PCI bus industrial PCs.
- Works with pulse‑input type stepper or servo motor drivers.
- Supports integration with CONTEC’s API‑PAC(W32) software and third‑party motion control frameworks.




### 5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- SMC‑4P(PCI) main board
- User documentation and driver software (API‑PAC(W32))
- RoHS/Pb‑free compliance labeling

Optional Accessories:
- Cables:
- PCB96P or PCB96PS (96‑pin half‑pitch cable, required for external connection)
- PCB37P or PCB37PS (37‑pin D‑SUB cable, optional for auxiliary I/O)
- Connector Sets:
- CN5‑D96M (96‑pin half‑pitch male connector)
- PCA96P / PCA96PS (terminal block connectors)
- PCB96P / PCB96PS (shielded cable assemblies)
- Terminal Blocks:
- EPD‑96, EPD‑96A, DTP‑64(PC) for easy wiring to external devices
- Synchronization Cable:
- CCB‑SMC1 (for multi‑board synchronization up to 64 axes)

Supported Connectors:
96‑pin half‑pitch (PCR‑E96LMD [HONDA Tsushin Kogyo] or equivalent)




### 6. Installation & Setup

System Requirements:
- PC with available 32‑bit PCI slot (33 MHz, 5 V signaling)
- Windows operating system (Windows 10/11 or earlier supported by API‑PAC(W32))
- +5 V DC power supply from PCI bus (900 mA max.)

Installation Procedure:
1. Power off the host PC and insert the SMC‑4P(PCI) into an available PCI slot.
2. Secure the board using the bracket screw.
3. Connect external devices (motor drivers, encoders, limit switches) via the 96‑pin half‑pitch connector using the appropriate cable (PCB96P/PCB96PS).
4. Install the CONTEC API‑PAC(W32) driver package from the included media or CONTEC website.
5. Verify board recognition in the operating system’s device manager.
6. Configure axis parameters and I/O assignments using the provided API or sample utility software.

Mounting Options:
- Standard PCI bracket for desktop or industrial PC chassis.
- Compatible with CONTEC Box‑PC and Panel‑PC systems.

Configuration:
- Software‑based configuration of pulse output mode, logic polarity, and axis parameters.
- Interrupt and I/O address automatically assigned by PCI Plug‑and‑Play.




### 7. Performance & Capabilities

- Pulse Output Speed: 0.1 pps – 1 Mpps continuous operation.
- Encoder Feedback Rate: Up to 1 MHz for high‑speed position verification.
- Frame Memory: 1,000 frames for autonomous motion sequencing.
- Synchronization: Up to 64 axes across multiple boards using synchronization cable.
- Response Time: Real‑time pulse generation with minimal CPU load.
- Electrical Isolation: Opto‑isolated inputs protect against industrial noise and voltage transients.
- Output Drive Capability: 35 V DC, 100 mA per channel (open collector).
- Power Efficiency: 5 V DC, 900 mA (max.) consumption from PCI bus.
- Reliability: Designed for 24/7 industrial operation with high MTBF and robust component selection.

Limitations:
- Requires external motor driver/amplifier (does not directly drive motors).
- PCI 5 V slot required (not compatible with 3.3 V‑only PCI slots).
- Windows‑based driver support (Linux not officially supported for this model).




### 8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PCI (32‑bit, 33 MHz, 5 V signaling)
- Electrical Safety: Opto‑isolated I/O for noise immunity and protection.
- Environmental Compliance:
- RoHS Directive (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant
- Pb‑free manufacturing process
- Quality Standards: Manufactured under CONTEC’s ISO 9001‑certified quality system.
- CE Marking: Conforms to applicable EMC and safety directives for industrial equipment.
- Connector Standards: 96‑pin half‑pitch (PCR‑E96LMD [HONDA Tsushin Kogyo]) per JIS C 5432.




### 9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Standard CONTEC limited warranty (typically 1 year from date of purchase).
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions.

Technical Support:
- Global technical support via [www.contec.com](http://www.contec.com)
- Access to driver updates, sample code, and application notes.
- Email and phone support available through regional CONTEC offices.

Maintenance:
- No periodic maintenance required.
- Keep connectors clean and free from dust.
- Ensure proper grounding and shielding in high‑noise environments.

Software & Updates:
- API‑PAC(W32): Windows driver and API library for motion control programming.
- Provides Win32 DLL functions for motion command, I/O control, and status monitoring.
- Includes sample programs and documentation.
- Development Environment Compatibility:
- Microsoft Visual C/C++
- Visual Basic
- LabVIEW (via VI‑DAQ library)
- Firmware: Fixed firmware; updates provided via CONTEC support if required.

Ordering Information:
| Model | Description |
|------------|----------------|
| SMC‑4P(PCI) | 4‑Axis Stepper/Servo Motion Controller PCI Card |
| PCB96P / PCB96PS | 96‑pin half‑pitch cable (required for external connection) |
| CCB‑SMC1 | Synchronization cable for multi‑board operation |
| EPD‑96 / EPD‑96A | Terminal block for external wiring |
| CN5‑D96M | 96‑pin half‑pitch male connector |

Related Models:
- SMC‑2P(PCI): 2‑axis version (0.1 – 1 Mpps, 32‑axis synchronization)
- SMC‑3(PC): 3‑axis ISA bus version (0.92 – 6 Mpps)
- SMC‑4DF‑PCI / SMC‑8DF‑PCI: High‑functionality PCI motion controllers with interpolation and advanced trajectory control.




### Summary

The CONTEC SMC‑4P(PCI) is a robust, high‑performance four‑axis motion control card engineered for industrial automation systems requiring precise, synchronized motion. It combines high‑speed pulse generation, opto‑isolated feedback, and extensive frame‑based motion sequencing in a compact PCI form factor. With its 1 MHz encoder input capability, 1 Mpps pulse output rate, and 1,000‑frame onboard memory, the SMC‑4P(PCI) delivers deterministic motion control suitable for demanding multi‑axis applications. Supported by CONTEC’s API‑PAC(W32) software, it integrates seamlessly into Windows‑based control systems, offering developers a flexible and reliable platform for motion automation.




Manufacturer Contact:
CONTEC Co., Ltd.
Industrial Automation Products Division
Website: [https://www.contec.com](https://www.contec.com)
Product Category: Counter & Motion Controller / PCI Bus Motion Control Cards




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