Introduction: Defining the benchmark for high-performance servo drives
In the field of industrial automation and precision motion control, the performance, reliability, and flexibility of the driver directly determine the efficiency of the entire system. The SERVOSTAR 600 series digital servo amplifier launched by KOLLMORGEN has undergone dozens of hardware and firmware revisions since its initial release (such as from HWR 05.10 to 05.40), continuously integrating cutting-edge technology, and has become a benchmark solution for complex and demanding application scenarios. The standard version of this amplifier series covers rated currents from 1.5A to 20A, supports wide voltage inputs (208V-480V AC), and is designed specifically for driving brushless synchronous servo motors. It integrates advanced digital control algorithms, rich feedback interfaces, and comprehensive safety features. This article aims to provide a detailed professional reference for system integrators and engineers by combining the official technical manual to deeply analyze its technical core, design philosophy, and application practice.
Chapter 1: Product Architecture and Technical Core
1.1 Hardware Evolution and Modular Design
The SERVOSTAR 600 series is not a static product, and its hardware revision history (HWR) clearly reflects the rapid iteration of technology. For example, hardware version 05.40 requires firmware of no less than 8.50 ND1 and supports new data structures and BiSS/EtherCAT interfaces, reflecting the pursuit of higher precision communication and real-time performance. The series offers six current levels and three width sizes (70mm, 100mm, 120mm), and this modular design allows users to accurately match power requirements and cabinet space. All models comply with the overvoltage category III standard (EN 61800-5-1) and can be directly connected to grounded three-phase industrial power grids. They support a maximum symmetrical effective current of 42kA, demonstrating strong industrial applicability.
1.2 Excellent electrical and control performance
The technical data of this series of amplifiers reveals its powerful core. Adopting IGBT output module, the carrier frequency can reach 8kHz (16kHz when VDC ≤ 400V), achieving smooth current output. The bandwidth of the digital current controller (space vector PWM, cycle 62.5 μ s) exceeds 1.2kHz, ensuring fast torque response. The speed controller (65 μ s or 250 μ s) and position controller (250 μ s) are fully digitized, and the parameters can be adapted to the vast majority of load conditions. Its "electronic gear" and master-slave operation function allow the amplifier to act as a slave station, with high-precision synchronous control by external encoders or master station amplifiers, providing a foundation for multi axis coordinated motion.
1.3 Integrated Security and Interface Ecology
Safety is the cornerstone of industrial drive. Although SERVOSTAR 600 does not integrate a safety torque off (STO) function that complies with IEC 61800-5-2, its optional restart lock option (- AS -) complies with the EN 954-1 standard (note that this standard is not referenced by the latest machinery directive) and can achieve safe restart protection through internal safety relays. In terms of interfaces, its richness is impressive: the integrated CANopen (default 500 kBaud) and RS232 interfaces open the door for bus integration and parameter settings; Pulse direction interface enables compatibility with stepper motor controllers; Meanwhile, it supports almost all mainstream feedback systems including Resolvers, BiSS, EnDat 2.1, HIPERFACE, Sine Cosine Encoders, and Incremental Encoders.
Chapter 2: In depth Electrical Design and Safety Standards
2.1 Power architecture and braking management
The amplifier adopts B6 rectifier bridge, with built-in power input filter and surge suppression circuit. Its DC Bus Link voltage range is 260-900 VDC and can be connected in parallel through the X7 interface. The unique patented circuit can automatically distribute braking energy among multiple amplifiers connected in parallel to the same DC bus, greatly improving system energy efficiency and reliability. The braking circuit is its key component, which automatically adjusts the action threshold (such as 400V/720V/840V) based on the power supply voltage (230V/400V/480V). Internally equipped with braking resistors (66 Ω for 601/603 and 33 Ω for 606-620), and also supports external resistors to handle higher braking power. For scenarios with higher requirements for energy recovery, the KCM-S/P/E capacitor module provided by Colmorgen can store braking energy for controlled shutdown during subsequent acceleration or power outages, reflecting advanced energy management concepts.
2.2 Comprehensive Security Warning and Compliance
The manual extensively emphasizes the importance of safe operation, and all work must be performed by professionals with electrical qualifications and familiarity with drive technology. Key safety warnings include:
High voltage hazard: There is a voltage of up to 900V inside the equipment, and capacitors may still be charged within five minutes after power failure. Before operation, it is necessary to wait for at least five minutes and measure the DC bus voltage to confirm that it is below 50V.