EM-A24-PCI DC Motor Driver

Key Features

  • Compact PCB-mountable driver module for brushed DC motors
  • Based on the proven EM-241 motor driver
  • 98-contact PCI Express-style card-edge connector
  • Vertical mounting requires minimal motherboard area
  • Optional locking bracket for demanding installations
  • High-efficiency H-bridge power stage
  • Low electromagnetic emissions for easy system integration
  • Forward and reverse control inputs
  • Configurable stop, fault and limit-input functions
  • Speed 2 input configurable for preset or analog speed control
  • Stop input configurable for analog current-limit control
  • Fault output configurable as an indication output
  • Selectable 2 kHz or quiet 16 kHz PWM frequency
  • RS-485 Modbus communication on supported PCB versions

Overview

EM-A24-PCI is a compact PCB-mountable driver module for brushed DC motors. It is based on the EM-241 motor driver and includes an efficient H-bridge power stage.

The module connects to the motherboard through a 98-contact PCI Express-style card-edge connector. Its vertical mounting orientation allows it to provide high motor current while requiring very little motherboard area.

Later PCB versions include an RS-485 interface using the Modbus protocol. The interface enables the module to be integrated into a distributed control system in addition to using its local control inputs.

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Motherboard Integration

The EM-A24-PCI is designed for direct installation on a motherboard. The card-edge connector simplifies installation, removal and replacement without requiring separate wiring for every module connection.

The vertical mounting orientation minimizes the required motherboard area and makes the module suitable for compact multi-axis and OEM control-system designs.

Mechanical Locking Option

An optional locking bracket is available for applications exposed to vibration, movement or other demanding mechanical conditions.

With the locking bracket installed, the module can be fastened to the motherboard using a screw pillar or a suitable plastic spacer.

Forward and Reverse Control

The FW and BW inputs control forward and reverse motor operation. Their operating behaviour can be adapted using the controller parameters.

This allows the inputs to be matched to continuous control, impulse-type commands or other supported operating modes.

Stop Input

The STOP input brings the motor to a controlled stop using the selected deceleration ramp. The stop command does not latch the driver and therefore does not prevent a new start after the input is released.

The STOP input can alternatively be configured as an analog current-limit input by selecting the applicable parameter settings.

Fault Input

The fault input stops the motor immediately without using the deceleration ramp. Motor operation remains inhibited for as long as the fault input is active.

When the fault signal disappears, the driver can return to its permitted operating state according to the configured control commands and parameters.

Fault and Indication Output

The NPN open-collector fault output can be used to indicate controller fault conditions to an external control system.

The output can alternatively be configured as an indication output using parameter 10. The exact indication condition depends on the selected parameter value.

Speed 2 and Analog Speed Control

The Speed 2 input can select a predefined secondary motor speed. This is useful when the application requires separate normal and approach speeds.

The same input can alternatively operate as a 0–5 V analog speed-control input. The full input range corresponds to a motor command from 0% to 100% PWM duty cycle.

Limit Inputs

Separate forward and reverse limit inputs can stop movement in the corresponding direction while allowing the motor to move away from the active limit.

Multiple limit-input logic combinations can be selected using parameter 3. This supports different sensor types, switch arrangements and fail-safe wiring methods.

Power Stage

The module includes an efficient H-bridge power stage for bidirectional DC motor control. It can provide up to 12 A of continuous motor current and a peak current of up to 30 A, depending on the selected PWM frequency, duty cycle and operating conditions.

The adjustable current limit protects the motor, driver and mechanical system. During start-up, the available current limit can temporarily reach 30 A.

Selectable PWM Frequency

The PWM frequency can be selected between 2 kHz and 16 kHz. The 2 kHz setting provides the highest available output-current capacity.

The 16 kHz setting moves the switching frequency above the normal audible range, providing quieter motor operation with reduced continuous and peak-current capacity.

RS-485 Modbus Communication

Supported PCB versions include an RS-485 communication interface using the Modbus protocol. The interface can be used for control, parameter setting and operating-status monitoring.

The RS-485 connection is provided through the module's card-edge connector for integration into the motherboard communication bus.

Acceleration and Deceleration Ramps

Start and stop ramps can be adjusted between immediate response and five seconds. The ramps provide smooth acceleration and deceleration and reduce mechanical shock and sudden current peaks.

Overvoltage and Temperature Protection

The adjustable overvoltage limit can be set between 15 V and 40 V. The power stage also includes overtemperature protection with a 100 °C limit.

EMC Performance

The power stage is designed for low electromagnetic emissions. This can reduce the need for additional external suppression components, although EMC compliance must always be verified for the complete motherboard and final installation.

Typical Applications

The EM-A24-PCI is suitable for compact machinery, multi-axis actuator controls, valve and damper systems, positioning mechanisms, vehicle equipment and OEM products requiring replaceable motherboard-mounted DC motor drivers.


Technical Data EM-A24-PCI

Firmware version EM-A24-PCI v2.0
Continuous supply voltage 10–35 VDC, maximum
Adjustable overvoltage limit 15–40 V
Start-up voltage 9 V
Shutdown voltage 8 V
Continuous output current at 2 kHz 12 A at 100% duty cycle / 7 A at 5–99% duty cycle
Continuous output current at 16 kHz 8 A at 100% duty cycle / 4 A at 5–99% duty cycle
Peak current at 2 kHz 30 A for max. 5 s
Peak current at 16 kHz 25 A for max. 5 s
Adjustable current limit 0.1–25 A, max. 30 A during start-up
Overtemperature limit 100 °C
Adjustable start and stop ramps 0–5 s
PWM frequency 2 kHz / 16 kHz, selectable
Analog speed-input range 0–5 V corresponds to 0–100% PWM duty cycle
Digital input levels High = 4–30 V / Low = 0–1 V
Control-input impedance typ. 100 kΩ or 2.2 kΩ, depending on input and function
Limit-FW / Limit-BW input impedance typ. 10 kΩ
Control-input response time typ. 5 ms
Fault output NPN open collector, max. 30 V / 50 mA
Fault input activation Active when Uin < 1 V (NPN)
Motherboard connector 98-contact PCI Express-style card-edge connector
Communication interface RS-485 with Modbus, supported PCB versions
EMC CE tested for industrial environments
Operating temperature (Ta) −40…+60 °C
Weight 15 g

Product files

EN_em-A24-PCI.pdf (96.89 KB)
Stock: 50+ pcs.
43,00 €
VAT 0%

Ordering larger quantities +100pcs.

For volume discounts pls. see the Contact Info for Electromen distributors. If you didn´t find your country distributor then ask direct offer from office@electromen.com

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