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System installation

The SPA2-2 is configured by software settings stored within the unit and on the host PC. The setting of these configuration parameters is performed by using UCCassist-2 commissioning software.

The UCCassist-2 software contains a structured installation process to assist in the commissioning of the SPA2-2.

CAUTION: Do not power down the SPA2-2 when the parameters or firmware is being updated. This can cause an error that requires the unit to be returned to Renishaw.

Testing and verification

The manufacturer of the finished machine, or the installer of the SPA2-2, is responsible for ensuring that the following test and verification procedures are performed to the appropriate standards on the complete installation:

  • Verification that the electrical equipment is in compliance with the technical documentation
  • Continuity of the protective bonding circuit
  • Insulation resistance tests
  • Voltage tests
  • Protection against residual voltages
  • Functional tests, particularly those related to safety

It is strongly recommended that the CMM manufacturer or retrofitter includes a periodic test of the emergency stop and, if fitted, the associated reset switch, in their maintenance instructions.

SPA2-2 cable preparation

The cables for connecting the UCC controller and SPA2-2 to the host PC are provided with the controller and SPA kits. The OEM or retrofitter is responsible for the provision of the following cables:

  • E-STOP / reset
  • Axis motors
  • Motor encoder (if appropriate)

NOTE: We strongly recommend that all cables are screened with a braided screen with a minimum of 70% coverage and that the screen is connected to the connector body. Connector backshells should be metal and connected to the screen.

E-STOP / reset

The external E-STOP connector is provided to allow connection of external E-STOP switches and a reset switch (see 'SPA2-2 connections' for further detail). For the circuit the maximum voltage is 24 V dc and the maximum current is 1 A. The cable size will depend on its length (see table below for our recommendations).

The current taken by the E-STOP can be up to 1 A.

Maximum current (Amps)

Maximum permitted Volt drop

Maximum length (metre)

Minimum CSA (mm²)

Minimum diameter (mm)

Nearest AWG size

1

2

10

0.09

0.33

27

1

2

20

0.17

0.47

24

1

2

40

0.34

0.66

21

Axis motors

The axis motor connectors provide the power to the axis motors and, if appropriate, the motor tacho connections. For the SPA2-2 the maximum voltage is 60 Vdc and the peak current is 10 A. The actual peak current will be dependant on the size of motor fitted and how hard it needs to be driven, so cable sizes for 2 A, 5 A and 10 A are given in the table below.

The 3 motor connections can provide 5 A continuous and 10 A peak.

Maximum motor current (Amps)

Maximum permitted Volt drop *

Max length (metre)

Minimum CSA (mm²)

Minimum diameter (mm)

Nearest AWG size

2

2

10

0.17

0.47

24

2

2

20

0.34

0.66

21

2

2

40

0.69

0.94

18

5

2

10

0.43

0.74

20

5

2

20

0.86

1.05

17

5

2

40

1.72

1.48

14

10

2

10

0.86

1.05

17

10

2

20

1.72

1.48

14

10

2

40

3.44

2.09

11

* This is just a suggested value. The machine design will determine the actual value.

Motor encoders

If the axis drive motors are fitted with rotary encoders as a method of speed control then these encoders will need to be connected to the SPA2-2 motor encoder connectors. The encoders are sensitive to supply voltage so the recommended maximum volt drop is only 0.25 V.

The encoder can typically take up to 500 mA.

Maximum current (Amps)

Maximum permitted Volt drop

Maximum length (metre)

Minimum CSA (mm²)

Minimum diameter (mm)

Nearest AWG size

0.5

0.25

10

0.34

0.66

21

0.5

0.25

20

0.69

0.94

18

0.5

0.25

40

1.38

1.32

15