SmartPrecision™
Software

The
Revolutionary Encoder
Setup and Diagnostic
Tool

MicroE Systems' exclusive encoder software makes all other encoder setup and monitoring methods obsolete by comparison. Named SmartPrecision™, this Windows-based application eliminates the need for bulky oscilloscopes and the tangle of probes needed to reach signal-monitoring points. A simple PC or laptop serves as the platform.

Michael Fitts, VP marketing, stated, "If you've ever had to use a scope and probes for encoder setup or troubleshooting, you'll immediately appreciate the ease and usefulness of SmartPrecision software. It not only enables programmable resolution and other functions, many customers are using it for manufacturing setup, during system operation, and in field service."

Program Mercury Encoder Resolution for Optimal Performance
Getting the best performance from a motion platform requires the right system resolution at the right motion speed. Traditionally, this meant specifying the desired resolution with a fixed interpolation module. Yet, sometimes the ideal encoder resolution is unknown until the system is tried for the first time. If the resolution is too low, motion will not be smooth. If set too high, the controller can be overwhelmed during fast moves.

SmartPrecision solves this problem by giving engineers complete control over system resolution and output frequency. When you use SmartPrecision software with any of our programmable encoder models, (M3500Si, M3500, M3500V, M3000Si, M3000, M3000V M2000, or M2000V), you can set interpolation depth in integer steps to achieve the exact resolution needed for optimal system performance.

• Set interpolation in integer steps from x4 to x4096 depending on model; No need to ship encoder back to get a different interpolation multiplier
• Set maximum output frequency to match controller and optimize performance

Double Check Mercury Encoder Alignment and Index setup
While Mercury encoders do not require oscilloscopes for sensor alignment and index setup, it is reassuring to know that you can confirm proper setup by viewing the sensor output signal directly using the Lissajous plot function in the SmartPrecision software. This feature is particularly interesting in the manufacturing environment, where customers can capture Lissajous data to document proper encoder setup. Used this way SmartPrecision software can be a very effective manufacturing quality assurance tool.

Above is the SmartPrecision software Lissajous data plot.

• Align sensor using Signal Level display and Lissajous data plot
• Locate index and see when sensor is over the scale's index mark
• Verify sensor output over length of scale using the Signal Strength plot

Monitor Mercury Encoder Operation
It is often beneficial to monitor the encoder while the system operates. SmartPrecision gives you several ways to do this. You can monitor the output signal over the length of the scale. The software will show when the sensor passes over the index, and you can read position relative to the index. You can even monitor hours of operation to coordinate with system preventive maintenance programs.

Above is a plot of the signal strength over
the length of the scale.


Above is a plot of encoder position over time
and velocity over time.

• Read encoder output signal over the length of the scale
• Read encoder position in engineering units of your choice
• Read the encoder's hour meter to monitor system usage
• Capture alarms while system operates unattended

Diagnose Mercury Encoder Performance
When a problem occurs in the motion platform, it's important to be able to quickly close in on the problem. SmartPrecision gives you the tools to dig in and uncover the source of your difficulty. The position readout, displayed in the engineering units of your choice, provides confirmation of the system's actual position as calculated by the motion controller. Signal data can then be recorded, emailed and analyzed by our Rapid Customer Response group to determine whether the encoder is experiencing a problem. Alternatively, you can use multiple display plots with data capture and the alarm history log to rapidly diagnose the source of the motion system problem. You could even add the SmartPrecision software GUI to your system to improve troubleshooting and field service. According to Michael Fitts, "The encoder knows more about system performance that you would think. SmartPrecision software brings that diagnostic understanding to you."

• Capture signal data and email it to MicroE for rapid diagnostic support
• Monitor alarms, view the alarm history log

Mercury Encoders and SmartPrecision Software,
A Powerful Combination



The combination of Mercury programmable encoders and SmartPrecision software represents a new level of performance in the world of motion control. It gives you more information on system performance, while making your equipment designs more robust and easier to service. The net effect is lower cost of ownership for you and your customers. And it is available at a cost that represents the best value in the industry.