Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Drive mfrs recommendations for MOTOR cables ?

I'm not a drive manuf. but I am an EE and please don't let's go down the
"monster cable" and gold connectors like certain gullible audiophiles...
And don't get me started on oxygen free copper... arrghhh!

In addition to the various questions raised, you'll notice that Mariss
has said on several occaisions "use the largest wire that will fit in
the connector. For pretty well all the stepper/servo applications you
listed and that are contemplated by this group, a 16 Gauge or 18 Gauge
conductor will be just fine. Ease of handling/terminating is an
important factor. Mechanical durability is also important. Too thin a
conductor and it may break if you walk on it, drop something on it etc.
If you can, purchase a multi-conductor cable - it looks better and is
more durable.

Keep the conductor as short as is reasonable between controller and
motor but remember copper isn't real stretchy so allow some slack for
motors mounted on moving tables. 8 feet should not be a problem, 80
feet probably would justify a heavier wire gauge.

Minimise the number of connectors between the motor and the controller
and take good care when you are terminating a cable to a
connector/motor/power supply. Intermittant connector faults will drive
you crazy. You'll need some connectors to disconnect/service/maintain
your equipment - just don't go overboard. Also, make sure the pins are
rated 6-10 amps each (or parallel a couple of pins if they are lower
current rated). FYI, a D-Sub connector pin typically carries 3-7 amps
"per pin" according to the AMP/Tyco datasheet but officially, you can't
terminate anything bigger than a 20G conductor.

Shielded is good, but not essential. For peace of mind, I use foil
shileded cables grounded at the controller or power supply end only to
avoid ground loops. Foil and braided shielding is better but probably
overkill for most apps. I found less noise on some power lines after I
installed a braided shielded power cable between my VFD and spindle
motor (7' of shielded cable purchased by the foot from McMaster Carr).

Wire/cable that is too big can't hurt your motor, only your wallet (or
purse??) and also requires bigger connectors which also cost more.

I hope this helps.

Looking forward to NAMES...

Cheers, Peter


batwings@... wrote:

> At 08:52 AM 4/26/02 -0000, you wrote:
>
>>Hello Dan, Dean, Mariss, Hans, Tim,?,?,
>>
>>I'm wondering what our list member step drive mfrs recommend using
>>for cabling FROM their drives TO the motors?
>>
>
> Order your motors with cables. Mine came with about 8 feet already hung.
>
>
>>Shielded?
>>
>
> Not needed.
>
> Individually? Overall? Braided? Foil?
>
> Straight-laid cable.
>
>
>>Effect of wire that is "too big", if there is any?
>>
>
> Saves power but costs more.
>
> Regards, Hoyt
>
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