Multilink with Setup Software

General

"Multilink" means to communicate to a group of servo amplifiers via the RS232 interface (PC interface). The example below shows the amplifiers with the names X-Achse and Y-Achse. Disconnection and reconnection by clicking the button  shows the selection screen "Select Drive", where you can select the requested amplifier in the system

Advantages

Special advantage while setting up and tuning the amplifiers is the saving of time and simplified handling. We recommend to install the multilink wiring in multi axes systems permanently. This enables the system for remote maintenance during operation, if the RS232 connection to a PC in the switchgear cabinet exists permanently.

Disadvantages

The Multilink function must be disabled, if the CAN bus is used as a fieldbus in the motion system. That means the multilink function can be used only, if CAN bus isn't used for another purpose.

Requirements

Hardware requirements

One servo amplifier (Master) must be connected with the PC via the RS232 cable. All other servo amplifiers are connected to the master vial the integrated CAN bus. RS232 and CAN interface are located on the same SubD connector. Therefore you must use an Y adapter for the required multilink wiring (see Accessories Manual). This adapter is available for 4 or 6 axes. Special types for mor axes are possible.

Software requirements

Switching ON Multilink

1. Use the front keyboard of the amplifier. Start the extended menu structure (press right key while switching on the 24V supply), look for parameter S07 (=MDRV) and set it to "1". Save the setting to the eprom (cSA).
2. Use the front keyboard of the amplifier to set unique station addresses (Adr). Save the setting to the eeprom (cSA).
3. The same procedure with every amplifier
4. Wire the communication interfaces with the described Y adapter.
5. Connect the PC and start the setup software. All amplifiers connected via CAN bus to the master are displayd for selection now
   
   (If no selection is available, enter in all connected Drives the command CCSAVE 0 followed by SAVE and COLDSTART)

Switching OFF Multilink

If e.g. the CAN bus must be used for other purposes, the parameter MDRV must be set to "0" at all parameters. Because all amplifiers are connected by multilink, you can set the parameter in the setup software terminal window of the master:

1. Type this commands to the terminal window (example for two slaves and the master):
   \ adr2 (last Slave)
   MDRV 0
   Save
2. \ adr1 (Slave before)
   MDRV 0
   Save
3. \ 0 (Master)
   MDRV 0
   Save

Switch the 24V supply off and on again.