Omron CK3W-AX1515N 4‑Axis Interface Unit for CK3M Motion Controller

The Omron CK3W-AX1515N is a dedicated axis interface unit designed for use with the CK3M series of programmable motion controllers. This unit provides control for up to four axes of servo motors, making it suitable for advanced multi‑axis applications such as gantry robots, packaging machines, and precision positioning equipment. The CK3W-AX1515N supports both digital quadrature encoders and serial encoders, and features True DAC (digital‑to‑analog converter) analog output for high‑speed, high‑precision torque and speed commands. The NPN variant (‑N suffix) offers NPN‑type general‑purpose digital I/O.

Technical Specifications

• Model: CK3W-AX1515N (NPN type)

• Series: CK3M (motion controller axis interface unit)

• Number of Axes: 4 channels per unit

• Address Setting Range: 0 to F

• Encoder Input:

• Digital quadrature encoder: Up to 10 MHz (phases A, B, C)

• Serial encoder: Supports multiple protocols (consult Omron for compatibility)

• Analog Output (True DAC): 2 points per channel (‑20 to +20 V differential, ‑10 to +10 V referenced to AGND)

• Pulse Output: Line driver output, max. 10 MHz (pulse + direction or phase difference)

• Digital I/O (General Purpose): 16 inputs, 16 outputs (NPN)

• Encoder Power Supply: 5 V DC, 500 mA per channel (total 1 A per unit)

• Power Consumption: 5 V DC: 4.5 W max., 24 V DC: 12.5 W max.

• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C

• Humidity: 10% to 95% non‑condensing

• Vibration Resistance: 5 to 8.4 Hz, 3.5 mm amplitude; 8.4 to 150 Hz, 9.8 m/s² acceleration

• Dimensions (H × W × D): 90 mm × 130 mm × 80 mm

• Weight: 520 g max.

Axis Control Capabilities

The CK3W-AX1515N provides four independent channels for commanding servo drives. The True DAC analog output (‑20 to +20 V differential) delivers a high‑bandwidth, low‑noise voltage signal for torque or speed control, eliminating the need for separate analog output modules. For systems using pulse train control, the line driver outputs support frequencies up to 10 MHz, with selectable output configurations (pulse + direction, CW/CCW, or quadrature). Encoder feedback inputs accept differential quadrature signals (A/B/Z) at up to 10 MHz, enabling precise position and velocity measurement. Serial encoder interfaces are also supported for communication with absolute encoders.

General Purpose I/O and Flags

Each axis has dedicated digital I/O signals: HOME (homing limit), PLIM (positive limit), NLIM (negative limit), and USER (user‑defined). These signals are 24 V DC inputs. Additionally, each axis has an AMP ENABLE output (to enable the servo amplifier) and a FAULT input (to monitor amplifier status). The unit also includes 16 general‑purpose digital inputs and 16 general‑purpose digital outputs (NPN type, 24 V DC), which can be used for auxiliary control tasks such as gripper control, light curtains, or operator pushbuttons.

System Integration and Programming

The CK3W-AX1515N mounts directly to the CK3M system base unit (e.g., CK3M-CPU1x1). Up to four axis interface units can be combined to control up to 16 axes. Configuration and programming are performed using Sysmac Studio motion control software. The unit supports motion algorithms such as electronic cam, gearing, interpolation, and torque limiting. The controller can be programmed in ladder, structured text, or the dedicated motion control language. The unit includes a micro‑SD card slot for firmware updates and data logging.

Environmental and Compliance

The CK3W-AX1515N is designed for panel‑mounting in industrial environments. It meets cULus, EU (EN 61326), KC, and CE standards. Insulation resistance: 20 MΩ min. (between isolated circuits at 100 V DC). Dielectric strength: 510 V AC between isolated circuits for 1 minute. Grounding method: Less than 100 Ω to dedicated ground.

Applications

The CK3W-AX1515N is used in high‑performance machinery requiring coordinated multi‑axis control: flying shears, pick‑and‑place robots, packaging machines, press feeders, and winding machines. Its True DAC outputs are particularly suited for applications that demand smooth analog torque control, such as tension control and winding.

Conclusion

The Omron CK3W-AX1515N axis interface unit expands the CK3M motion controller into a powerful, high‑density motion control system, offering flexible encoder input options, high‑frequency pulse outputs, and analog control — all in a single modular unit.