CKD AxTools servo debugging software (EboDEX)

CKD AxTools servo debugging software (EboDEX)

In the field of modern industrial automation, the performance of servo drive systems directly determines the production accuracy and operational stability of equipment. CKD Corporation's EboDEX series drivers (TS, TH, MU, XS, and other models) are widely used in semiconductor manufacturing, packaging machinery, robot joints, and other scenarios due to their high-precision positioning and flexible programming capabilities. However, to achieve optimal matching between the driver and the load, professional debugging tools such as AxTools are indispensable.

AxTools is a specialized software based on the Windows environment (supporting Vista to 8.1), used for parameter reading and writing, program editing, gain optimization, vibration suppression, and real-time monitoring of AVODEX drives. This article will systematically explain how to use AxTools to complete a complete driver debugging and troubleshooting process from the perspective of an engineer's practical operation. Whether you are using it for the first time or want to delve deeper into advanced features, this article will provide practical solutions.

Preparation work: Construction of communication link

2.1 System and Environmental Requirements

Before starting any debugging work, please confirm that your PC meets the following conditions:

Operating System: Windows Vista/7/8/8.1 (Note: 64 bit systems have good compatibility, but it is recommended to close other software that occupies the serial port)

Hardware: Equipped with a usable RS-232C serial port (or through a USB to serial port adapter)

Special cable: Use CKD original model AX-RS232C-9P or make according to the following pin definitions (D-sub 9-pin):

PC end (DOS/V model): 2-RD, 3-SD, 5-SG

Driver end CN1:2-SD, 3-RD, 5-SG, pins 7 and 9 are suspended (used for dialogue terminals, misconnection may damage the driver)

Caution: It is strictly prohibited to plug or unplug cables or power off the drive during communication, otherwise it may cause abnormal AxTools or drive programs.

2.2 Initial Connection and Port Settings

After starting AxTools, first enter the 【 Set 】 tab (Settings tab). In the 'Communication port' group:

Click on Setting and select the COM number (such as COM3) that actually corresponds to the PC from the drop-down list.

Click Connect to open the serial port. If the status bar displays "OK", it means a physical connection has been established with APPRODEX.

Click Update to refresh the information, and the software will automatically recognize the drive model, serial number, and I/F specifications (parallel I/O, CC Link, PROFIBUS, EtherCAT, etc.).

Common faults: If "[-]" is displayed or the connection fails, please check if the cable pins and COM number are occupied by other software (such as PLC programming software), and confirm that the driver is powered on and not in an alarm state.

Quick Start: Software Interface and Core Features

AxTools adopts a ribbon menu layout similar to Office, mainly divided into five tabs:

Overview of tab functions

Home file creation/opening/saving, window arrangement, quick jump to various debugging modules

Set communication port settings, fieldbus configuration, language selection, and driver information viewing

Tuning gain automatic/manual adjustment, vibration suppression filter (AI Filter) adjustment

Edit NC program writing, parameter editing, point table setting, data comparison and storage

Monitor I/O signal real-time waveform, speed waveform acquisition, FFT frequency analysis

In addition, the application button (top left corner) provides functions such as printing and exiting; The Quick Access toolbar allows customization of commonly used commands.

One of the core debugging tasks: gain tuning

The goal of gain tuning is to make the servo system respond quickly and stably to commands without overshoot or oscillation. AxTools offers three modes: AI gain auto tuning, semi-automatic tuning, and manual tuning.

4.1 AI gain automatic tuning (applicable to TS/MU/XS models)

AI gain tuning automatically evaluates multiple PID parameter combinations and provides ratings by allowing the motor to move along a specific trajectory, recommending the optimal value.

Operation steps:

Switch to the [Tuning] tab and click on AI Gain.

Set in the pop-up dialog box:

Motor operation: Set the motion time (e.g. 0.5 seconds) and angle (e.g. 90 degrees). The software will automatically generate a temporary NC program.

Program number: Specify two consecutive idle program numbers (such as 998 and 999), which will be automatically deleted after tuning is complete.

Adjustment area: You can select the "specified area" - check the gain combination that needs to be optimized in the G1/G2 matrix table (G1 and G2 are the corresponding values of the dip switch on the driver panel, 00 represents the use of parameter 101/102).

Detail setting: Advanced options include cam curve (MS/MT/TR), adjustment mode (speed priority/accuracy priority), whether to enable PRM67/PRM72 integration parameters, and vibration amplitude weights for positioning completion determination.