CataLyst-3 Robot System

User Guide
UMI-CAT-400

Rev.

Revision History

Date

001

First Issue

01-05

001a

Corrected SIO port numbering

01-08

Copyright August 2001 CRS Robotics Corporation

CataLyst, ActiveRobot, and RAPL are trademarks of CRS Robotics Corporation and may be used to
describe only CRS Robotics products.
All brand names and product names used in this guide are trademarks, registered trademarks, or trade
names of their respective holders.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice.
CRS Robotics Corporation makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this material, including, but not
limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. CRS Robotics
Corporation assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document. CRS Robotics
Corporation makes no commitment to update nor to keep current the information contained in this
document.
CRS Robotics Corporation software products shall remain the property of CRS Robotics Corporation.
Additional copies of this guide, or other CRS Robotics literature, may be obtained from the Sales
Department or from your distributor.

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PREFACE

About This Guide

This user guide accompanies the CRS Robotics CataLyst-3 articulated robot
system. It contains installation instructions, specifications, and operating
procedures for the CataLyst-3 arm and C500C controller.

Who Uses This Guide

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This installation guide is intended for users who have already attended a CRS
Robotics robot system training course. It is not intended as a self-teaching tool.

How to Use This Guide

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Throughout this manual warnings are marked by a "!" symbol in the left
margin. Failure to comply with these warnings can result in system errors,
memory loss, damage to the robot and its surroundings, or injury to personnel.

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This manual is task-based and uses navigational aids to help you quickly find
the topics and information you need. If a technical term is not familiar to you,
refer to the Glossary.

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Before following instructions in a section, read the entire section first.

This guide consists of the following chapters:

Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System introduces the major

components of your CRS robot system and provides an overview of system
features.

Technical Specifications contains physical and electrical specifications,

including guidelines for the nominal use of your robot system.

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System discusses safety considerations.

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Installation provides instructions for installing the robot in a work cell.

Commissioning the System explains how to load the calibration file, test
basic robot functions and prepare your robot system for use.

Basic Operations describes routine system procedures.

System Connections includes detailed pinouts and configuration

information to help you integrate additional devices into the work cell.

Maintenance Procedures describes how to establish a service schedule,

lubricate joints, replace fuses, and other basic maintenance activities.

Troubleshooting helps you to resolve common problem situations that

you may encounter when using your robot system.

Appendix A, GPIO Termination Block Option provides installation and

mounting instructions for the optional GPIO termination block.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Preface

iii

Preface:

Units Used in This Manual

The CataLyst-3 robot system is designed to Imperial scale. Throughout this
manual, measurements are given in Imperial units. Where metric dimensions
or fasteners can be substituted, metric equivalencies (or interchangeable
metric fastener sizes) appear in square brackets.

For More Information

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Additional information is available in the following documents, contained on

your documentation CD:

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Robot System Software Documentation Guide

Guide for developing applications in an integrated way.

Application Shell Guide

User Guide for the controller application shell.

CROS and System Shell Guide

User Guide for the controller system software.

ActiveRobot User Guide

Reference Guide for the ActiveRobot application development software.

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You can obtain copies of these documents, or other CRS Robotics literature,
from the Sales department or from your distributor.

Training

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We offer courses at our facility in Burlington, Ontario Canada, or on-site at

your facility. For more information, contact the CRS Training Department.

Contacts

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Surface Mail/Shipping
CRS Robotics Corporation
5344 John Lucas Drive
Burlington, Ontario L7L 6A6
Canada

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Telephone
1-905-332-2000 (voice)
1-800-365-7587 (voice: toll free in Canada and United States)
1-905-332-1114 (facsimile)

E-Mail
Sales: [email protected]
Customer Support: [email protected]
Training: [email protected]
General: [email protected]

World Wide Web

www.crsrobotics.com

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Preface

Preface: Contents

Contents
Chapter 1

Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System . . . . . . . . .

1-1

The Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

The C500C Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
E-Stops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Chapter 2

Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Physical Characteristics
Electrical Specifications
Operating Environment .
Joint Specifications . . . .
Resolution . . . . . . . . . .
System Options . . . . . . .

Chapter 3

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2-1
2-2
2-2
2-3
2-5
2-6

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3-1

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4-1

Preparing a Mounting Platform for the Arm . . . . .

Lifting the Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Securing the Arm to the Mounting Platform . . . .
Lifting the Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Controller Fuse Drawer . . . . . . . . .
Mounting the Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting Robot System Components . . . . . . . .
Connecting End-of-arm Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing Additional Safety Devices . . . . . . . . . . .

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Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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3-1
3-2
3-2
3-3
3-7

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Chapter 5

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2-1

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Safety Conformance . . . .
Built-in Safety Features .
Triggering an E-Stop . . . .
Designing a Safe Workcell
Accident Prevention . . . .
Chapter 4

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. . . 4-1
. . . 4-3
. . . 4-3
. . . 4-3
. . . 4-4
. . . 4-5
. . . 4-6
. . . 4-8
. . 4-10

Commissioning the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5-1

Inspecting the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Powering Up the Robot System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Loading the Robot Calibration File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Setting up the Robot Configuration File . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Verifying Encoder Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Turning on Arm Power for the First Time . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Checking Devices in the E-Stop Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Testing Joint Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Autohoming or Homing the Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Verifying Robot System Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Re-Commissioning the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Preface

Preface: Contents

Chapter 6

Basic Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pre-power Checklist . . . .
Powering Up the System .
Turning on Arm Power . .
Managing Point of Control
Autohoming the Arm . . . .
Powering Down . . . . . . . .

Chapter 7

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Chapter 9

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6-1
6-1
6-2
6-2
6-3
6-3

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System Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting End-of-arm Tools . . . . . . . . . . . .
The User I/O Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Umbilical Cable Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Expansion Amplifier Connector (option) .
General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO) . .
System Input/Output (SYSIO) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Serial Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 8

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6-1

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7-1

. . . 7-2
. . . 7-5
. . . 7-6
. . . 7-9
. . 7-11
. . 7-16
. . 7-22

Maintenance Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8-1

Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Routine Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scheduled Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking Front Panel Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . .
Inspecting AC Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preparing the Robot System For Shipping . . . . . . . . .

8-1
8-1
8-2
8-2
8-3
8-5

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9-1

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Troubleshooting Common Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Diagnostic Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Contacting the Customer Support Group . . . . . . . . . 9-6

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Appendix A

Installing New Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1

Appendix B

GPIO Termination Block Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1

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Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-1

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Preface

Preface: Figures

List of Figures

Figure 1-1:

Basic components of a CataLyst-3 system . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Figure 1-2:

CataLyst-3 arm features and joint numbering . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Figure 1-3:

The front panel of the C500C controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Figure 1-4:

The rear panel of the C500C controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Figure 2-1:

Decrease in payload according to distance . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Figure 2-2:

Decrease in resolution according to distance . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Figure 3-1:

Base reach of the CataLyst-3 arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Figure 3-2:

Removing the fuse drawer.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Figure 4-1:

Mounting template for the CataLyst-3 arm. . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Figure 4-2:

Lifting the CataLyst-3 arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Figure 4-3:

AC fuse drawer and fuse/connector module. . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

Figure 4-4:

C500C controller front and side views with dimensions . . 4-5

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Figure 4-5:

Connections to the C500C controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Figure 4-6:

Never apply excessive force to joint 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Figure 4-7:

The CataLyst-3 tool flange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Figure 4-8:

End-of-arm connectors on the CataLyst-3 wrist . . . . . . . . 4-9

Figure 4-9:

The E-Stop circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Figure 5-1:

Using the calibration markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Figure 5-2:

The CataLyst-3 arm in the ready position . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Figure 7-1:

Connecting end-of-arm tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

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Figure 7-2:

Air connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

Figure 7-3:

Connecting an air supply to the air intake port . . . . . . . . 7-4

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Figure 7-4:

The User I/O connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Figure 7-5:

Motor power connector for the CataLyst-3 arm . . . . . . . . 7-6

Figure 7-6:

Feedback connector for the CataLyst-3 arm . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Figure 7-7:

Expansion amplifier connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

Figure 7-8:

GPIO pin numbering scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11

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Figure 7-9:

Wiring schematic for the GPIO connector . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14

Figure 7-10:

SYSIO pin numbering scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17

Figure 7-11:

Wiring schematic for the SYSIO connector . . . . . . . . . . 7-19

Figure 8-1:

Locating fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Figure 8-2:

Packing position for the CataLyst-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Preface

vii

Preface: Figures

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Preface

Preface: Tables

List of Tables
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table

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2-1:
4-1:
7-1:
7-2:
7-3:
7-4:
7-5:
7-6:
7-7:
7-8:
7-9:
8-1:
8-2:

Joint specifications for the CataLyst-3 arm . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

AC fuses required for the CataLyst-3 Robot System . . . . 4-4
Pinouts for the Servo Gripper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Port settings for the air connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Pinouts for the User I/O connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Pinouts for the motor power connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Pinouts for the feedback connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
Pinouts for the expansion amplifier connector . . . . . . . . . 7-9
Pinouts for the GPIO connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
Pinouts for the SYSIO connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-18
Default serial port baud rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-22
Front panel fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
AC fuses required for the CataLyst-3 Robot System . . . . 8-4

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Preface: Tables

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Preface

CHAPTER 1

Introducing the CataLyst-3

Robot System
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At its most basic configuration, the CataLyst-3 robot system consists of a

CataLyst-3 robot arm, a C500C controller, and an umbilical cable that
provides power and communication from the controller to the arm.
Commands are issued to the CataLyst-3 robot system from program
applications on the development computer. End effectors such as grippers
and other tools enable the arm to perform specialized tasks.

C500C controller

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optional teach pendant

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Figure 1-1:

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umbilical cables
(feedback and motor power)

end effector

CataLyst-3 arm

Basic components of a CataLyst-3 system

This chapter provides an overview of the basic components of your CataLyst-3

robot system.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System

11

Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System: The Arm

The Arm
The arm transports payloads and performs other motion tasks in space. A
mounting plate at its base secures the arm to a fixed platform. You can easily
mount a variety of end effectors such as grippers or dispensers on the tool
flange.

joint 3
tool flange

joint 2
joint 1

Figure 1-2:

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grounding
stud

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air intake port

user I/O
connector

motor power
connector
feedback
connector

CataLyst-3 arm features and joint numbering

Articulated joints provide the CataLyst-3 arm with three degrees of freedom,
allowing you to accurately position the tool flange at points within the work
space.

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Incremental Encoders

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Incremental encoders for each joint provide continuous information on motor

position. Once the arm has been homed, the controller uses this information
to accurately position the arm within the workcell.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System

Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System: The C500C Controller

The C500C Controller

The C500C controller provides safety circuits, power, and motion control for
the arm. It drives the motors in each joint, keeps track of motor position
through feedback from the encoders, computes trajectories, and stores robot
applications in memory. It also detects potentially damaging conditions such
as robot runaway, severe collisions, loss of positional feedback, and errors in
communication. If one of these conditions is detected, the controller
immediately triggers an emergency stop or shutdown.

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The embedded multi-tasking CRS Robot Operating System (CROS) provides

process scheduling and interfaces to low-level robot system functions. It also
provides basic application development tools, including the application shell
(ash), an integrated environment for developing, compiling, and running robot
applications on the controller. For more information on CROS and ash, see the
CROS and System Shell Guide and the Application Shell Guide.
Note:

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For information on how to develop robot applications using

ActiveRobot, refer to the ActiveRobot User Guide.

The Front Panel

The front panel provides a basic interface to robot functions. Through your
application, you can use the LCD status display, programmable buttons and
indicator lights on the front of the controller to display status messages and
request input from system operators.

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Using pre-programmed button combinations, you can also shut down the
controller or access diagnostic mode.

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Figure 1-3:

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status display
front panel buttons

console port
teach pendant port
power on/off switch
fuse access panel
E-stop button

The front panel of the C500C controller

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System

13

Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System: E-Stops

Controller Ports
Ports on the front and rear panels of the controller provide connections for
external devices such as the optional teach pendant, the development
computer, and additional E-Stops.
umbilical
(power)

umbilical expansion
(feedback) amplifier*

force
sensor *

EXPANSION
AMPLIFIER

E-Stop and
other SYSIO
devices *

serial I/O
devices *

SIO 0

SIO 1
SYSIO

MCE

GPIO
devices*

SYSIO DUMMY PLUG

CRS ROBOTICS
S-SEC-23-124

GPIO

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voltage
indicator

fuse drawer
AC power

Figure 1-4:

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The rear panel of the C500C controller. Note that connections labeled with an
asterisk (*) are optional and may not be needed for your CataLyst-3 robot
system.

E-Stops

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Emergency stops, or E-Stops, are a robot safety feature designed to stop the
arm in case of emergency. The E-Stop buttons provided with your system are
large red, palm-cap buttons. To increase safety, you can also add automatic
E-Stop devices such as pressure-sensitive mats or safety interlocks to your
CataLyst-3 robot system.

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When an E-stop is triggered, power is immediately removed from the arm

motors and fail-safe brakes automatically engage to prevent the arm from
moving due to gravity.

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To ensure safety, power cannot be restored to the arm until the E-Stop device
that triggered the emergency stop is manually reset.
Using the E-Stop button

To trigger an E-Stop, push any E-Stop button. Power is removed from the
arm motors and brakes automatically engage on all joints. Arm motion
stops.

To restart after an E-Stop:

14

Make sure that it is safe to restart the system.

Turn the E-Stop button until it springs out of the latched position.

Press the Arm Power button on the controller or remote front panel to
restore arm power.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Introducing the CataLyst-3 Robot System

CHAPTER 2

Technical Specifications

Physical Characteristics
CRS Robotics CataLyst-3 Arm

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Number of axes

Weight

17 kg [37 lb.]

Mounting

Upright or inverted

Nominal payload

1 kg [2.2 lb.]

Reach

660 mm [26 in]

(joint 1 axis to gripper fingers)

End Effector
Repeatability
[0.002 in.]
Drive system
Transmission
Brakes

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Servo gripper with microplate fingers

0.05 mm

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DC electromechanical motors
Incremental encoders in each joint
Harmonic drives
Brakes on all joints

Motion modes

Teach
Automatic

End-of-arm connections

Servo gripper connector on wrist (standard)

DB-9 connector on wrist (standard)
P

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neumatic connector on wrist

(option)

CRS Robotics C500C Controller

Dual microprocessor design

133 MHz i486DX (system processor)

60 MHz TMS320C31 DSP (motion control)

Memory

4 MB RAM user memory

512KB NVRAM for application storage
1 MB flash memory for system firmware

User I/O

16 digital inputs
12 digital outputs
1 analog input
4 relay outputs

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Technical Specifications

21

Technical Specifications: Electrical Specifications

Front Panel interface

16x2 character, back-lit LCD display

User programmable buttons and LED lights

System connections

External E-Stop control inputs

2 standard serial I/O ports
1 console serial port
1 teach pendant serial port

Dimensions

482.6 mm [19 in.] x 266.7 mm [10.5 in.]

Fits a standard 6U rack enclosure

Weight

31 kg [68 lb.]

Electrical Specifications

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AC Input voltage

100/115/230 VAC 10%

Line frequency

50-60 Hz

Power consumption (max)

1000 W

Operating Environment

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The CataLyst-3 robot system is rated for indoor use only.

Temperature
Humidity
Vibration

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10 to 40 C [50 to 104 F]
Keep below 80% humidity,
Non-condensing environment only
Not rated for excessive vibration or shock

Electromagnetic Interference Do not expose to excessive electrical noise

or plasma

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications: Joint Specifications

Joint Specifications
When planning an application, refer to the following technical data to ensure
that you are using your robot arm within recommended tolerances. Choose
appropriate payloads and accelerations to minimize wear and prolong the life
of your robot system.

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Applications that regularly exceed the specifications shown here will

necessitate more frequent maintenance and can decrease the life expectancy
of your robot arm. For more information on maintenance, see Chapter 8,
Maintenance Procedures.
Table 2-1:

Joint specifications for the CataLyst-3 arm

Axis

Range of
Motion

Maximum
Speed

Default
Acceleration

joint 1

180

210 /sec.

500/sec.

joint 2
joint 3

0 to +110
-125 to 0

210 /sec.
210 /sec.

500/sec.
500/sec.

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Gear
Ratio

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Continuous Stall
Torque Rating

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72:1

9.6 Nm [85 inlb.]

72:1

9.6 Nm [85 inlb.]

-72:1

9.6 Nm [85 inlb.]

Specifications in Table 2-1 are determined for a 1 kg [2.2 lb.] payload carried
at the tool flange.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Technical Specifications

23

Technical Specifications: Joint Specifications

For a tool carried at a distance from the tool flange, refer to the following derating curves and reduce your payload accordingly:
Payload (kg)

2.0
1.0

100

200

Axial distance from tool flange surface (mm)

Payload (lb.)

6
5
4
3
2
1
0

10

Axial distance from tool flange surface (in.)

Payload (kg)

2.0
1.0

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100

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200

Radial distance from tool flange center (mm)

Payload (lb.)

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6
5
4
3
2
1

10

Radial distance from tool flange center (in.)

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Figure 2-1:
Note:

24

Decrease in payload for a tool carried at a distance from the tool flange

When applying a de-rating curve, you must include the mass of the
end effector when calculating the payload, i.e. the combined mass of
the end effector and payload should not exceed the maximum
recommended payload mass for your application.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications: Resolution

Resolution
If the tool is offset from the center of the tool flange, the effective resolution of
the CataLyst-3 is reduced as shown in the following de-rating curves:
Resolution (mm)
0.150
0.125
0.100
0.075
0.050
0.025
0

100

200

Axial distance from tool flange surface (mm)

Resolution (in.)
in.
0.0060
0.0050
0.0040
0.0030
0.0020
0.0010
0

10

Axial distance from tool flange surface (in.)

Resolution (mm)
mm
0.250
0.225
0.200
0.175
0.150
0.125
0.100
0.075
0.050
0.025
0

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100

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200

Radial distance from tool flange center (mm)

Resolution (in.)
0.0100
0.0090
0.0070
0.0060
0.0050
0.0040
0.0030
0.0020
0.0010

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0

Figure 2-2:

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Radial distance from tool flange center (in.)

Decrease in resolution according to distance from the tool flange center. Where
axial and radial resolutions are different, the effective resolution is given by the
higher value of the two.

Warning! Operating at the maximum payload of 2 kg [4.4 lb.] causes premature

wear. To prolong the life of your CataLyst- arm, limit acceleration and speed to
80% when carrying payloads greater than the nominal value of 1 kg [2.2 lb.].

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Technical Specifications

25

Technical Specifications: System Options

System Options
The following options are available for a CataLyst-3 system:

Grippers are end-effectors that mount on the end of the tool flange to
allow the arm to pick up objects. CRS offers the following gripper options:

The Servo Gripper is a servo-operated gripper which provides accurate

positional and force control when gripping objects.

The Pneumatic Gripper is an air-controlled gripper which connects to

the optional pneumatic port on the CataLyst-3 wrist.

The GPIO Termination Block extends the controller GPIO port to a

termination block for easier access.

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Contact CRS or your local distributor for more information.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Technical Specifications

CHAPTER 3

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

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Before installing or using the robot system, ensure that you are familiar with
the safety directives in this chapter. It is your responsibility to ensure that the
robot system is safely installed and commissioned. You must also guarantee
that all personnel operating the robot system receive adequate training and
are fully aware of hazards present in and around the workcell.

Safety Conformance

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Your CataLyst-3 robot system has been designed and built in accordance with
the following safety standards:

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UL 1740:1998 Robots and Robotic Equipment

ANSI/RIA15.06-1992 Industrial Robots and Robot Systems - Safety

Requirements

CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. Z434-94 Industrial Robots and Robot Systems -General Safety Requirements

EN60204-1:1992, EN292:1991, EN954:1997 Category-1, and the

Essential Health and Safety Requirements of the EC Machinery Directive

ISO10218:1992 Manipulating industrial Robots -- Safety

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Ensure that your robot application complies with all additional safety
regulations and standards in effect at the site where the system is installed.

Designated Use

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The CataLyst-3 is designated for use in small-scale robot applications

involving payloads of up to 1kg [2.2 lb.]. Typical applications include
microplate handling, instrument loading, pipetting, dispensing, product
testing, and light industrial tasks.

The CataLyst-3 should not:

operate in explosive environments

operate in radioactive or biohazardous environments, except as part of a

system that has been specifically designed for such use

operate directly on humans (e.g. surgery)

If you are unsure whether your robot application falls within the designated
use for the CataLyst-3 system, contact the Customer Support Group.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

31

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Built-in Safety Features

Built-in Safety Features

The CataLyst-3 robot system includes the following basic safety features:

E-Stop buttons provide a means of halting robot motion in case of

emergency.

Continuous fault detection is built into the controller hardware and

software. Arm power is automatically removed by faults caused by
collisions or robot runaway

Hardstops in all joints restrict the arms range of motion.

Fail-safe brakes are built into all joints . Brakes engage automatically
when arm power is off.

Speed is restricted to 10% until the arm is homed.

When using the optional teach pendant:

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The system can only be operated while the live-man switch is engaged.

End effector speed is automatically restricted to 250 mm/s (Cartesian

speed) or less.

Manual input is required to transfer point of control or re-start the robot

system after a power failure.

Triggering an E-Stop

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In case of emergency, operators can quickly halt all robot motion by triggering
an emergency stop.
To stop the arm in case of emergency
Strike any E-Stop button.

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To recover from an E-Stop

1
Remove all dangers from the workcell and verify that it is safe to power
the arm.
2

Twist the E-Stop button to reset it, or close the E-Stop device that
triggered the stop.

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3

Press the Arm Power button to restore power to the arm.

If arm power cannot be restored, see Arm Power Cannot Be Turned On

on page 9-3 for the relevant troubleshooting procedure.

32

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Designing a Safe Workcell

Designing a Safe Workcell

When designing your workcell, you must isolate all hazards associated with
the use of your robot system.
A comprehensive risk assessment must include the following steps:
1

Identifying potential hazards associated with your robot application.

Estimating the severity of all identified risks and hazards, including

hazards presented by the robot system itself, and by your application.

Selecting appropriate safeguards to control the risks. You must ensure

both the safety of all persons operating near the robot work space and
conformance with all applicable safety standards.

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Note:

If you do not wish to perform a risk assessment, you can choose

instead to follow the complete Safeguarding Requirements as outlined
in clause 7.2 of ANSI RIA15.06-1992.

Note:

The E-Stop circuit on the C500C controller is CE rated at Category 1,

which includes a single channel circuit.

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For guidance in determining appropriate safeguarding measures for your

workcell, consult the following safety standards:

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ANSI/RIA15.06-1992 Industrial Robots and Robot Systems - Safety

Requirements

EN775:1992 Robot Safety

EN 1050:1997 Safety of machinery - Principles for risk assessment

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

33

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Designing a Safe Workcell

Robot System Hazards

Warning! All users of the CataLyst-3 robot system must be made aware of the
following potential hazards:

A fire hazard may result if the arm comes in contact with a piece of
equipment that is at a different electrical potential. The arm is
grounded through the umbilical cables. If a charged piece of equipment is
in contact with the arm for an extended period of time, the umbilical
cables could overheat and catch fire.

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Electrical shock risk: the motor power cable carries a high voltage
when the system is powered. Route the cable so that it is protected from
damage.

The space between moving links presents a crushing/pinching

hazard. Do not touch or lean against the arm when arm power is on and
the robot is capable of motion.

Pinch points on the arm can trap or cut end-effector cabling or

pneumatic lines. Secure external cables to the arm to prevent them from
becoming trapped or cut.

The brakes in the robot arm do not instantaneously halt robot

motion when arm power is removed.

Water or other liquids may cause a short circuit, which could cause
robot runaway. Water or other electrically conductive liquids must not be
allowed to enter the arm or controller.

The CataLyst-3 system does not automatically monitor air pressure

for pneumatic tools. If lack of air pressure could cause a hazard,
integrate appropriate safeguards into your application via the GPIO or
SYSIO ports. See General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO) on
page 7-11, and System Input/Output (SYSIO) on page 7-16.

The controller front panel cannot be disabled. If you create a remote

front panel, you must ensure that the Arm Power and Pause/Continue
buttons are only accessible from one location. See Designing a Safe Front
Panel Device on page 7-16.

Using an unmatched controller and arm may result in collisions.

When swapping arms or controllers, or performing significant arm
repairs, always ensure that the calibration file on the controller matches
the arm that is connected to it. See Loading the Robot Calibration File
on page 5-3.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Designing a Safe Workcell

Work Space
The work space is the volume of space that can be swept by all robot parts
plus the space that can be swept by the end effector and the workpiece.

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Figure 3-1:

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Base reach of the CataLyst-3 arm (with servo gripper and microplate fingers)

To calculate the work space for your application

Add the following dimensions:

The base reach of the arm

The dimensions of the workpiece, calculated outward from the arm

Any space required to avoid crushing/pinching hazards

The calculated distance, extended in all directions, represents the minimum

work space for your application.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

35

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Designing a Safe Workcell

Establishing a Safeguarded Perimeter

Depending on the risk assessment for your application, the perimeter may be
defined by a physical barrier which prevents access to the workcell, or it may
simply consist of awareness warnings designed to alert operators to dangers
presented by the robot system.
Note:

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To connect safeguards and warnings to the E-Stop circuit, see the

procedures in Installing Additional Safety Devices on page 4-10.

Physical Barriers

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When installing barriers, the following criteria must be met:

Barriers must be outside the total radius of the arm, gripper, and payload.

Although you can use software limits to restrict arm movement to a

portion of the work space, barriers must encompass the full work space of
the arm. Software limits do not prevent motion during robot runaway.

Provide sufficient clearance between the barriers and the work envelope
to prevent trapping or crushing hazards.

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Presence-sensing Interlocks

Presence-sensing interlocks automatically stop the arm when a door is opened

or motion is detected within a defined perimeter. Presence sensors include
devices such as contact switches, light curtains, and pressure-sensitive floor
mats.

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To increase safety in your workcell, provide presence-sensing interlocks at all

points of entry into the workcell. For example, you can connect door-mounted
contact switches to your robot system via the SYSIO port to interrupt arm
operation when a door is open.
Note:

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All components used in interlocks must be safety-rated.

For more information on how to connect interlocks to the robot
system, see The SYSIO Port on page 7-17.

When designing interlocks for your workcell, keep the following points in
mind:

Interlocks must be integrated into the E-Stop circuit for the workcell and
designed so that a failure automatically interrupts the E-Stop circuit and
removes arm power.

Interlocks must not interfere with other E-Stop devices in the workcell.

The presence-sensing envelope must be larger than the work envelope of

the arm. The extra volume must be sufficient to allow time for the arm to
come to a halt before an intruder can enter the arms work space.

36

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Accident Prevention

Passive Warnings
Passive warnings are designed to alert operators of dangers presented by the
robot system but do not themselves prohibit access into the workcell. To
maximize safety, incorporate passive warnings into your workcell design along
with physical barriers or presence-sensing interlocks.
Some examples of passive warnings include:

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Audio or visual awareness signals, such as buzzers or lights, that indicate

a dangerous condition or warn an intruder to keep a safe distance.

Awareness barriers, such as a length of yellow chain or distinct markings

on the floor or tabletop.

When implementing passive warnings, ensure that all persons working with
the robot system recognize the warnings and understand what they mean.

Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Devices

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For safe robot use, E-Stop buttons should be readily accessible at all points
where it is possible to enter the robot work space. You can install additional
E-Stop devices in series via the SYSIO port on the back of the controller. For
E-Stop installation procedures, see Adding E-Stop Devices on page 4-10.

Accident Prevention

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Warning! If incorrectly installed or programmed, the arm may perform

unexpected movements at high speeds.

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In order to minimize the risk of accidents around the robot system, apply the
following safety principles:

Design and test your robot application so as to ensure the safety of

system operators at all times.

Perform the commissioning procedures described in Commissioning the

System on page 5-1 after installing, moving, or modifying any component
of the robot system.

Alert all operators to the dangers presented by the robot system.

Prohibit or restrict access to the work space while the robot system is in
use. Barriers or other safeguards should be used to establish a safe
perimeter outside the reach of the arm. Train personnel to remain outside
the perimeter while arm power is on.

Make all persons entering the safeguarded area aware of potential

hazards and of the need to have an E-Stop button in reach at all times.

During automatic operation of the robot system, prevent personnel from

entering the safeguarded area.

Schedule routine inspections of all safety devices to ensure that they are
functioning normally. See Commissioning the System on page 5-1.

If the system is under repairs or acting abnormally, lock-out the

controller to prevent the system from being used. See Locking Out the
Controller on page 3-9.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

37

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Accident Prevention

Safety Training
Ensure that all personnel who program, operate, or maintain the robot system
are adequately trained to perform their jobs safely. It is strongly recommended
that you attend a CRS training course before implementing a robot
application.
Ensure that all operators:

Have a clear definition of their duties.

Receive adequate training.

Are fully aware of the dangers of the robot application.

Know the location and use of all safety devices.

Working Within the Robot Work Space

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During teaching and program verification, it may be necessary for an operator

to enter the safeguarded area. While within the robot work space, always keep
the following points in mind:

Be aware of arm position at all times.

Work at reduced speeds.

Have an E-Stop device within reach at all times.

Never work alone inside the safeguarded area.

Avoid crushing hazards. Never place yourself between the arm and a
fixed object.

Know your capabilities. If you have not been trained, do not attempt to
service the arm yourself. Only CRS-qualified service personnel should
service the arm.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Accident Prevention

Locking Out the Controller

While repairing or replacing any component of the robot system, lock out the
controller to ensure that the system is not used.
Note:

OSHA safety procedure 1910-147 recommends locking out the AC

power outlet at the main panel. If you prefer to implement the OSHArecommended procedure, refer to OSHA 1910-147 Control of
Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout) for further information.

To lock out the controller

1
Unplug the AC power cord from the back of the controller.
2

Remove the fuse drawer from the back of the controller.

Figure 3-2:
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Insert a flat head screwdriver below the clip to remove the fuse drawer.

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Create a tag labeled DO NOT POWER THE ROBOT SYSTEM and hang
it on the back of the controller. The tag must be conspicuous and easy to
read.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

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Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System: Accident Prevention

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Safe Use of the CataLyst-3 System

CHAPTER 4

Installation

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This chapter provides instructions for installing the components of your

CataLyst-3 robot system. If you have not already set up a workcell, you should
review Designing a Safe Workcell on page 3-3 before beginning the
installation.

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Preparing a Mounting Platform for the Arm

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You must secure the arm to a supporting structure to ensure that it does not
move or fall during use.
You can mount the arm in an upright or inverted position. In an upright
position, the base of the arm occupies a portion of its work space, limiting the
available work area. The work area is larger with the arm inverted, but the
trajectories required by robot applications may be more complex.

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Whether upright or inverted, the mounting platform must be rigid enough to

support the weight of the arm and withstand inertial forces caused by
acceleration and deceleration while the arm is in use.

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Platform Requirements
The supporting structure (bench, table, bracket, or other structure) must
be firmly anchored to the floor or overhead frame to prevent movement.
Note:

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The platform must be level. Do not attempt to mount the arm on a wall or
incline.

If you are securing the arm to a metal plate, the metal must have a
minimum yield strength of 30,000 psi [210 MPa].

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A welded steel frame is preferable to an adjustable frame.

Adjustable frames can shift over time, decreasing accuracy.

Use four M8 cap screws (metric) or four 3/8 in. cap screws (Imperial) to
mount the arm.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

41

Installation: Preparing a Mounting Platform for the Arm

(7.765 [197.2])
2 METRIC DOWEL PINS
6.000 mm
5.988 mm
12 mm MIN. DEPTH

5.000 [127.0]

4 SCREWS
CLEARANCE FOR
3/8 in. OR M8

(8.346 [212.0])

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5.000 [127.0]

2.500 [63.5]

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FRONT OF ROBOT
2 IMPERIAL DOWEL PINS

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2.0000.001
[50.80.03]

0.2505 in.

4.0000.001
[101.40.03]

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0.25 in. IMPERIAL DOWEL PINS (FRONT)

OR 6 mm METRIC DOWEL PINS (BACK)
CLEARANCE FOR 3/8 in. or M8 SCREW
DRILL AND TAP 4 HOLES
0.5 in. [12 mm] MIN DEPTH

0.25 [6.35] TYP.

0.5 in. [12 mm] MIN. DEPTH

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PLATE
APPLICATIONS

Figure 4-1:

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OUTLINE OF ROBOT BASE

CENTER OF
ROBOT
ROTATION

BLIND
APPLICATIONS

Mounting template for the CataLyst-3 arm (except where noted, dimensions
are in inches [mm in square brackets] . Dimensions in parentheses are
reference).

To prepare the mounting platform

1

Using the template in Figure 4-1 as a guide, drill and tap holes for four
M8 screws (metric) or four 3/8 in. screws (Imperial).
Note:

If you are mounting the arm directly onto a tabletop, drill the holes
as indicated for blind applications. If you are preparing a plate,
drill the holes straight through the plate.

Drill and ream holes for either two 6 mm dowel pins (metric) or two
0.25 in. dowel pins (Imperial), as indicated in Figure 4-1. The dowel pins
are used to ensure accurate positioning of the arm.

If you are preparing a mounting plate, drill any additional holes required
and secure the mounting plate to the supporting structure.

42

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

Installation: Lifting the Arm

Lifting the Arm

The CataLyst-3 arm weighs approximately 17 kg [37.4 lb.] and can easily be
damaged if it is dropped.
Never lift a CataLyst-3 by the wrist. The plate-leveling mechanism inside the
wrist can break if excessive force is applied to the wrist.

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The arm should be lifted from the base or from underneath joint 2, as shown
in Figure 4-2. Use a cart if the arm is to be moved over any distance.

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nMounting Platform
Securing the Arm to the
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P
Figure 4-2:

Lift the CataLyst-3 arm from the base or from under joint 2.

Once the mounting platform has been prepared, you are ready to mount the
arm. The arm may be mounted in an upright or inverted position.
To mount the arm on the mounting platform
1
Insert the dowel pins into the prepared holes on the mounting platform.
2

Lift the arm onto the mounting platform, taking care to line up the holes
at the base of the arm with the holes on the platform.

Secure the arm to the mounting platform with four M8 screws (metric) or
four 3/8 in. screws (Imperial). The arm should not move on the platform
once it has been secured.

Once the robot system has been in use for a short time, re-tighten the
mounting platform screws to ensure that the arm does not move.

Lifting the Controller

The controller weighs approximately 31 kg [68 lb.] and has built-in handle
flanges along the side edges. You can grasp the controller from underneath, or
by the handle flanges.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

43

Installation: Installing the Controller Fuse Drawer

Installing the Controller Fuse Drawer

The country kit shipped with your robot system includes the voltage selector,
the fuse drawer, four fuses (two for immediate use and two spare), and an AC
power cable appropriate to the standard power supply in your country.
The fuses shipped with your system should be appropriate for the local mains
voltage, as shown in Table 4-1:
Table 4-1:

AC fuses required for the CataLyst-3 Robot System

Voltage

Required Fuses

100 VAC

8 A, 250 V, 6.3mm x 32mm [ in. x 1 in.], slow blow

115 VAC

8 A, 250 V, 6.3mm x 32mm [ in. x 1 in.], slow blow

230 VAC

5 A, 250 V, 6.3mm x 32mm [ in. x 1 in.], slow blow

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Before using the controller, you must select the correct voltage and insert the
fuse drawer into the back of the controller.
Voltage selector
Voltage marking
Fuses
Window for
voltage
marking

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Fuse/power
connector module

Fuse drawer

Figure 4-3:

Fuse drawer and fuse/connector module for the C500C controller

To select the voltage and install the AC fuses

1
Locate the fuse/power connector module on the lower right corner of the
rear panel of the controller.

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Turn the voltage selector so that the correct voltage marking faces you.

Insert the voltage selector into the upper part of the fuse/power connector
module. Only the voltage for your country should be visible.

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Warning! The controller may be seriously damaged if the voltage is not

selected correctly.
Note:

Carefully insert the fuse drawer into the connector module.

Forcing the selector into the connector could damage connector
pins inside the connector module.

Insert the two AC power fuses into the fuse drawer.

Push the drawer into the fuse/power connector module until it clicks.

Once the correct fuses have been installed, you can plug the AC power cable
into the lower part of the fuse/power connector module.
Warning! Do not turn on controller power until you have completed the
entire installation.

44

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

Installation: Mounting the Controller

Mounting the Controller

The controller can be mounted on any level surface, either resting on its
bottom feet or mounted in a rack.
The chassis is 482.6 mm [19.00 in.] wide by 266.7 mm [10.49 in.] high, and is
designed to fit into a 600 mm [6U] rack enclosure. Holes for rack mounting are
provided in the front flanges and sides, as shown in Figure 4-4.

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Mounting requirements for the controller

For safety reasons, the controller must be located outside the work space
of the arm.

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Provide at least 225 mm [9 in.] of space for ventilation and cables at the
back of the controller.

The front panel buttons, status display, and E-Stop button must be
readily accessible.

If the controller is rack mounted, use the screws recommended by the

rack manufacturer. Support the back of the controller where possible.
482.60 mm [19.00 in]
442.69 mm [17.43 in]

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F2

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6.35 mm [0.25 in]

PAUSE/

266.45 mm [10.49 in]

190.50 mm [7.50 in]

269.70 mm [10.62 in

EMERGENCY STOP

37.97 mm [1.50 in]

465.10 mm [18.3 in]

447.17 mm [17.61 in]

417.96 mm [16.46 in]

18.44 mm [0.73 in]

19.21 mm [0.76 in]

Figure 4-4:

C500C controller front and side views with dimensions

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

45

Installation: Connecting Robot System Components

Connecting Robot System Components

Connect robot system components to ports on the front and back of the
controller, as shown in Figure 4-5.
Warning! Always turn off power before connecting or disconnecting cables.

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Additional devices should be added to your robot system later, after you have
performed an initial power-up and tested the system for basic functionality.
grounding
force serial I/O
umbilical umbilical
stud
sensor * devices*
(power) (feedback) expansion
amplifier*

teach pendant development

computer
(console port )

EXPANSION
AMPLIFIER

Figure 4-5:

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SIO 0

MCE

GPIO
devices *

SIO 1

1 5

E-Stop and
other SYSIO
devices*

1
6

SYSIO

25

24

GPIO
49
48
50

1
2

AC power

Connections to the C500C controller. Note that connections labeled with an

asterisk (*) are optional and may not be needed for your robot system. For more
detail on these connectors, see Chapter 7, System Connections.

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Connecting the Umbilical Cables

The feedback and power umbilical cables connect the controller to the
CataLyst-3 arm. The power cable (gray) provides power to the arm, while the
shielded feedback cable (black) carries communication signals between the
arm and the controller. Both cables must be connected to the controller
chassis ground in order to properly ground the arm.

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To connect the umbilical cables

1

At the back of the controller:

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46

Plug the male feedback cable connector into the 57-pin receptacle
labeled ROBOT FEEDBACK and carefully rotate the locking ring clockwise
until you feel a click.
Note:

You will have to use some force to turn the locking ring through
the last 10 degrees as it compresses an O-ring before clicking
shut.

Plug the female power cable connector into the 24-pin receptacle
labeled ROBOT POWER and carefully rotate the locking ring clockwise
until you feel a click.

Attach the grounding strap for each cable to one of the grounding
studs on the controller. Both the feedback cable and the power cable
must be grounded to the chassis.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

Installation: Connecting Robot System Components

At the back of the arm:

Plug the female feedback cable connector into the 57-pin receptacle
and carefully rotate the locking ring clockwise until you feel a click.
Note:

You will have to use some force to turn the locking ring through
the last 10 degrees as it compresses an O-ring before clicking
shut.

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Plug the male power cable connector into the 24-pin receptacle and
carefully rotate the locking ring clockwise until you feel a click.

Attach the grounding strap from the feedback cable to the grounding
stud at the back of the arm.

Connecting the SYSIO Dummy Plug

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The SYSIO dummy plug is a small black and silver DB-25 connector. If you do
not have any SYSIO devices connected, you must insert the dummy plug into
the SYSIO port to complete the E-Stop circuit for your robot system.
Note:

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The SYSIO dummy plug is usually pre-installed at the factory.

For more information on the SYSIO port, see System Input/Output (SYSIO)
on page 7-16.

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Connecting the Teach Pendant

The optional teach pendant is used to move the robot, teach locations, and
run robot programs.

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To connect the teach pendant

With the controller shut down and powered off, remove the teach pendant
dummy plug and connect the teach pendant to the port labeled Pendant on
the front of the controller, shown in Figure 4-5.
Note:

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If a teach pendant is not connected to the controller, connect the teach

pendant dummy plug to the teach pendant port in order to complete
the E-Stop circuit for your robot system.

Connecting the Development Computer

In order to program robot applications and commission your robot system,

you will need a development computer with ActiveRobot installed. The
ActiveRobot User Guide included on the documentation CD explains how to set
up a development computer for your robot system.
Note:

The computer must be connected via a straight-through RS-232 cable

with a female DB-9 connector at the controller end.

Note:

The default baud rate used by the C500C controller is 57600 bps.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

47

Installation: Connecting End-of-arm Tools

To connect the development computer

1
Connect your serial cable to a serial port on the development computer.
2

With the controller shut down and powered off, connect the other end of
the serial cable to the Console port on the front of the controller.

Using the ActiveRobot Configuration utility on the development computer,

set up communication with the robot system.
Note:

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ActiveRobot Configuration is described in the section entitled

Using ActiveRobot Configuration in the ActiveRobot User Guide.

If you cannot establish communication between the development computer

and the controller, see Chapter 9, Troubleshooting.

Connecting End-of-arm Tools

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Install end-of-arm tools according to the instructions provided in the

manufacturers documentation. If no documentation is available, or the
documentation is not specific to the CataLyst-3, refer to these guidelines:

Never force joint 4 when attaching end of arm tools. A plate-leveling

mechanism inside the wrist automatically adjusts the position of joint 4
when the arm is in motion. This mechanism can break if too much force
is applied against the wrist.

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Figure 4-6:

48

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Applying excessive force to joint 4 can damage the CataLyst-3 wrist.

To install and configure the standard CRS servo gripper supplied with
your CataLyst-3, refer to the Servo Gripper User Guide.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

Installation: Connecting End-of-arm Tools

Other end-of-arm tools may be secured to the CRS tool flange with four
10-24 screws. To repeatably locate the position of a tool against the
flange, insert two M5 dowel pins into the tool flange dowel pin holes.
thru
2 dowel pin holes as
shown on 1.300 bolt circle

1.875" [47.63 mm]

4 X 0.206" [5.23 mm] through

counterbore 0.328" [8.33 mm] X 0.190" [4.83 mm] deep
from opposite side on 1.500" [38.10mm] bolt circle

0.7480" [19.00 mm] K6

0.7475"
X 0.110" [2.79 mm] deep

Figure 4-7:

The CataLyst-3 tool flange

Figure 4-8:

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CRS pneumatic
gripper

User I/O DB-9

End-of-arm connectors on the CataLyst-3 wrist. See Chapter 7, System

Connections for more detailed information on these connectors.

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Note:

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To enable servo or pneumatic control of a standard CRS tool, connect the

tool to the appropriate connector on the side of the wrist. Secure all wires
to the arm in order to prevent them from being pinched.

CRS servo
gripper

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If your CataLyst-35 is configured for air, the pneumatic connector

replaces the servo gripper connector on the wrist. Pneumatic
control is only available as a factory-installed option

Connect bar code readers or other end of arm input/output devices to the
User I/O DB-9 connector. The wiring passes through the arm and
emerges (in the same pin configuration) through the DB-15 connector on
the base of the arm. For more information, see The User I/O Connector
on page 7-5.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

49

Installation: Installing Additional Safety Devices

Installing Additional Safety Devices

In order to improve safety within your workcell, you can connect additional
safety devices to the E-Stop and arm power circuits via the SYSIO port on the
back of the controller.
Warning! Do not connect live voltage through the SYSIO E-Stop circuit. This can
permanently damage sensitive electronic components within the controller.
Note:

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The SYSIO port uses ribbon-cable numbering rather than the standard
DB-25 numbering scheme. For more information on the SYSIO port
pin layout, see System Input/Output (SYSIO) on page 7-16.

Adding E-Stop Devices

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The E-Stop circuit for your robot system includes E-Stop buttons on the
controller and the teach pendant, as well as a passive E-Stop device in the
Live-man switch.
Internal circuit

Front Panel
E-Stop

Pendant
E-Stop

+12 VDC

Figure 4-9:

Pendant
Live-man

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SYSIO Main Control

Relay
Connector

Internal circuit

CR

The E-Stop circuit, with all devices in their normal (closed) position

Design the E-Stop circuit for your system with the following points in mind:

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An E-Stop button must be a large, palm-cap, red button that has been
third-party approved for use as an E-Stop. Once triggered, the E-Stop
button must require a manual reset.

In addition to buttons that halt robot motion, E-Stop devices can include
passive triggers such as door latching mechanisms or pressure sensors
within the workcell.

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Note:

All mechanisms used as E-Stop devices must be safety-rated.

Connect all E-Stop devices in series to ensure that power is removed from
the E-Stop circuit when any device in the circuit is disconnected or
disrupted.

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To connect additional E-Stop devices to the controller, see System

Input/Output (SYSIO) on page 7-16.

410

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installation

CHAPTER 5

Commissioning the System

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After installing, relocating, or making any changes to components of your

robot system or updating the version of CROS on the controller, you must
check the robot system thoroughly to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
This is referred to as commissioning your system for use.
When commissioning a robot system, you must:

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Establish clear boundaries around the arms work space, whether the
arm is installed as part of a workcell or mounted on a lab bench.

Designate and adequately train all personnel responsible for

commissioning and functional testing of the robot system.

Ensure that personnel responsible for commissioning the robot system

have read and understood the Safety instructions in Chapter 3, Safe Use
of the CataLyst-3 System.

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To commission a robot system

1
Inspect the system for any dangers (page 5-2).

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Connect the development computer and power up the robot system

(page 5-3).

Set up the default system configuration (page 5-4).

Verify encoder feedback (page 5-5).

Turn on arm power (page 5-5).

Check all devices in your E-Stop circuit (page 5-6).

Autohome or home the arm (page 5-8).

Test joint motion (page 5-7).

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

51

Commissioning the System: Inspecting the System

Inspecting the System

Before turning on the power to your robot system, verify the following points:

The arm is securely bolted to its mounting platform and any installed end
effectors are tightly fastened to the tool flange.

Both umbilical cables are grounded to the controller chassis.

The feedback cable is grounded to the grounding stud on the arm.

The development computer is connected to the Console port on the front

of the controller.

The teach pendant (or dummy plug) is connected to the Teach Pendant
port on the front of the controller.

All cables are connected and properly strain-relieved.

The arm is not carrying a payload.

The robot work space is free of obstructions.

The work space is clearly delineated by barriers or other safety measures.

Operators and other personnel are outside the robot work space.

The E-Stop circuit is closed:

All triggered E-Stops have been reset.

A SYSIO device (or the SYSIO dummy plug) is connected to the SYSIO
port.

All other devices in the E-Stop circuit, such as safety interlocks and
proximity sensors, are closed and the circuit is complete.

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52

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If you have made any modifications to your robot system, verify the
following additional points:

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The controller AC voltage is correctly selected.

The arm and all components are correctly installed and stable.
Cables are not pinched or under strain.
If you are using a different arm or controller, or have serviced the arm,
verify that the calibration file on the controller matches the arm. See
Loading the Robot Calibration File on page 5-3.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

Commissioning the System: Powering Up the Robot System

Powering Up the Robot System

During power-up, the controller boots and performs diagnostic tests. For
safety reasons, turning on the controller does not turn on arm power.
Caution! Turning the controller off incorrectly can cause memory loss. Once
the controller is powered on, make sure that you shut it down correctly according
to the procedure in Powering Down on page 6-3.

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To power up the system

1
If you have not already done so, connect the AC power plug from the
controller to your power outlet.
2

Standing outside the robot work space, switch on the controller power.
The controller begins cycling through its boot-up sequence.
Note:

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For more information on controller boot-up, see the CROS and

System Shell Guide on your documentation CD.

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When the controller finishes booting up, the front panel display reads:
C500C CROS

If you do not see this message on the front panel display, or you encounter
any errors, refer to Chapter 9, Troubleshooting.

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Loading the Robot Calibration File

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Before you can use an arm for the first time with a new controller, you must
first load the robot calibration file for the arm. Each CataLyst-3 arm is
shipped with a calibration disk that contains the specific calibration file for
that arm. The calibration file determines where the zero position is for each of
the arms encoders.

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You only have to load the calibration file after a recalibration, a service
procedure which affects the encoders (in which case, your service technician
will provide you with a new calibration disk), or when using a different arm
with the controller.
Warning! Collisions may occur if you attempt to use the arm with an
incorrect calibration file. When replacing the arm or controller, always ensure
that the calibration file on the controller matches the arm in use.

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To load robot.cal onto the controller

1
Locate the arm serial number on the
decal at the base of the arm.

CRS ROBOTICS CORPORATION

5344 John Lucas Drive
Burlington, Ontario L7L 6A6
CANADA
Phone: (905) 332-2000
Toll Free: 1-800-365-7587

CATALYST ROBOT ARM

INPUTS: 5 @ 35 VDC 2A
WEIGHT: 17 Kg (37 Lb)

RSA-14-103

S/N: RA20048038
MFG. DATE: JAN 2001

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

53

Commissioning the System: Setting up the Robot Configuration File

Locate the calibration disk shipped with your arm and verify that the
number on the disk matches the number for the arm.
Note:

If you have lost your calibration disk, note your arm serial number
and contact the Customer Support Group for assistance.

Transfer the calibration file robot.cal from the calibration disk to the
/conf directory on the controller connected to your arm.

Shut down and restart the controller.

Updating After Repairs to the Arm

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After servicing and re-calibration, the robot.cal file on the controller must
reflect the changes made to the arm.

If the arm and controller were re-calibrated together, the file on the controller
is already up to date. If the arm was re-calibrated separately, you must update
the calibration on the controller with the new calibration file.

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To update robot.cal after service and re-calibration

1

Locate the appropriate robot.cal calibration file for your arm. If a new
calibration file was not provided with your arm after servicing, contact the
service technician or representative who performed the repairs.

Copy the robot.cal calibration file for the arm to the /conf directory on the
controller connected to your arm.

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Setting up the Robot Configuration
File
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3

Shut down and restart the controller.

If you are setting up the system for the first time, use the command
/diag/setup to configure default parameters such as measurement units and
the number of axes for your robot system.
Note:

Robot system configuration parameters are stored in robot

configuration file, /conf/robot.cfg.

To configure the system

1

Open a terminal window on the development computer.

Enter the command /diag/setup.

You will be prompted to answer a series of configuration questions. If you

answer a question incorrectly, simply run /diag/setup again.

Once setup is complete, shut down the controller by entering:

$ shutdown now

Reboot the controller to apply the new configuration.

For more information on configuration parameters, see cfg_save in the

Application Shell (ASH) Guide or ConfigSave in the ActiveRobot User Guide on
the documentation CD.

54

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

Commissioning the System: Verifying Encoder Feedback

Verifying Encoder Feedback

With arm power off, make sure that the controller is receiving feedback from
all encoders.
To test encoder feedback
1

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If necessary, remove arm power by pressing an E-Stop button. The LED

on the controller Arm Power button should now be off.

From ash, enter the command w1 to display the position of each encoder.
If your arm has been homed and is in the ready position, the motor pulse
count display will look something like this:
-1

+18001

+1

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Note:

A variation of a few motor counts is normal.

Note:

For more information on the application shell, ash, please refer to

the Application Shell Guide on your documentation CD.

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Starting with joint 1, push against each joint with your hand and observe
the display. The number of counts should change in response to the
movement.
Note:

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Although brakes prevent the joints from moving, the encoders will
register a small movement when each joint is pushed.

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Turning on Arm Power for
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3

Press Ctrl+E to return to the ash prompt.

Before turning on arm power for the first time, make sure that an E-Stop
button is in reach and that operators and other personnel are well outside the
robot work space. Because the system has not yet been checked for safety, be
especially cautious when commissioning the robot system.
Warning! An undiagnosed problem with your robot system can cause the
arm to move unpredictably when power is applied. You should always be
prepared to strike an E-Stop button when applying arm power for the first time.
To turn on arm power
1

While standing outside the robot work space, press the Arm Power button
on the front panel of the controller.
The LED on the Arm Power button should light, indicating that the arm is
powered on.

If you cannot turn on arm power, check for triggered E-Stop devices and
make sure that the teach pendant and SYSIO ports are properly
terminated with either a device or a dummy plug. Reset any triggered EStop devices and press the Arm Power button again.

If you still cannot turn on arm power, see the troubleshooting procedure Arm
Power Cannot Be Turned On on page 9-3.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

55

Commissioning the System: Checking Devices in the E-Stop Circuit

Checking Devices in the E-Stop Circuit

Devices in the E-Stop circuit must remove arm power to protect the operator
in case of an emergency. Before putting the robot system into routine use,
make sure that all devices in your E-Stop circuit are functioning correctly.
To check E-Stop devices

If it is not already on, turn on arm power by pressing the Arm Power
button on the controller. The LED on the Arm Power button should be lit.

For all E-Stop buttons, perform the following test procedure:

Trigger an emergency stop by pressing the E-Stop button. You should

hear a click as the brakes engage and relays in the controller remove
power from the arm.

Verify that the LED on the controller Arm Power button is now off. If
you have installed an additional beacon light, verify that it is off as
well.

Reset the E-Stop button. Turn the button until it springs out.

Turn on arm power again by pressing the Arm Power button.

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If the pendant is not yet active, transfer control to the teach pendant
by entering the ash command pendant in the terminal window on your
development computer.

Without engaging the live-man switch, press one of the arm motion
keys. Verify that this triggers an emergency stop and removes power
from the arm.

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If you have a teach pendant, test the teach pendant live-man switch as
follows:

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Turn on arm power.

While squeezing the live-man switch just enough to engage the first
safety trigger, press one of the arm motion keys. Verify that the arm
can be moved from the pendant without triggering an emergency stop.

While moving the arm from the pendant, release the live-man switch.
Verify that this triggers an emergency stop and removes power from
the arm.

Turn on arm power.

Squeeze the live-man switch to its full extent (past the second safety
trigger) and press one of the arm motion keys. Verify that this also
triggers an emergency stop and removes power from the arm.

Turn on arm power again.

Test any additional safety devices (such as pressure-sensitive mats,

interlocked doors, or other devices) connected to the E-Stop circuit for
your workcell. Ensure that all devices safely remove power from the arm.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

Commissioning the System: Testing Joint Movement

Testing Joint Movement

As part of commissioning your robot system, test each joint to verify that the
full range of motion is available. Perform this test from the development
computer to ensure that it is functioning normally. Always test arm motion at
reduced speeds to decrease the risk of injury.

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Warning! Avoid collisions when moving the arm. If you have just unpacked the
arm, you should limp the arm and move it into a safe starting position (such as
the ready position, shown in Figure 5-2) before beginning this test.
To test arm movement from the development computer
1
Make sure that arm power is turned on.

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On the development computer, open an ActiveRobot terminal window and

start an ash session with the command ash test.

In ash, set the arm speed to 10% by entering the command speed 10.

Taking care to avoid any other elements in the workcell, move each joint
through 5 in the positive and negative directions using the joint
command. For example, enter:
test> joint 1, 5

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to rotate joint 1 counterclockwise by 5.

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Each joint should move smoothly and quietly. If you encounter any error
messages or other problems, consult Chapter 9, Troubleshooting.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

57

Commissioning the System: Autohoming or Homing the Arm

Autohoming or Homing the Arm

Incremental encoders on the motor shafts provide positional feedback to the
controller as each joint moves. Because incremental encoders do not have an
absolute zero position, the arm must be homed after each powerup. This
locates the zero position for each motor and establishes a known frame of
reference for the arm.
Note:

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Until the arm is homed, arm speed is limited to 10% and world motion
commands are disabled.

Autohoming

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The autohome command uses pre-saved homing data on the controller to

return the arm to its homed state after a reboot. Autohoming is completely
automated and much faster than manually homing the arm.

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Each time that arm power is turned off, the controller saves axis position
information to the file /conf/poweroff.cal. The autohome command uses this
information to restore the system to its homed state. It then cycles any
additional axes (such as track or carousel axes) through their regular homing
sequence and rotates each joint slightly to verify that the restored position
information is accurate.

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Note:

Because poweroff.cal is only updated when arm power is turned off,

always make sure that arm power is off before backing up this file.

Note:

If the robot system reports that it is unable to save joint positions in

poweroff.cal, you must home the arm manually, as described in
Manually Homing the Arm on page 5-10.

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To autohome the arm in ash

1

Press the Arm Power button on the controller to turn on arm power.

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2

If the arm is close to any obstacles in the workcell, move it to a safe

location using joint commands. During autohoming, the arm will rotate
each joint through a few degrees.

Enter the command:

test> autohome
The robot system begins autohoming.
Note:

By default, autohome restores homing information for all axes. You

can also restore homing information for each axis separately, using
the command autohome n (e.g. autohome 1).

You can also autohome using the ActiveRobot Configuration utility.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

Commissioning the System: Autohoming or Homing the Arm

To autohome with the ActiveRobot Configuration utility

1
In the ActiveRobot Configuration utility on the development computer,
select the Utility tab.
2

Press the Arm Power button on the controller to turn on arm power.

If the arm is close to any obstacles in the workcell, move it to a safe

location using the axis + and - buttons on the Utility tab.

Click the Home in Place button.

The robot system begins autohoming.

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The autohome command displays its status in the terminal window. You
should see something like the following message:
Axis 1, pos=+8985 , offset=0
Axis 2, pos=-3463 , offset=2
Axis 3, pos=-8451 , offset=-1
Note:

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If an axis is already homed, the message Axis n previously homed

will appear instead.

When autohoming is complete for all axes, the home light on the controller
turns on, indicating that the robot system is homed.

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If autohome cannot restore the homing information for an axis, you will see
the error message:
Failed on axis n, offset = 25

In this case, you must home the arm manually, using the procedure described
in Manually Homing the Arm on page 5-10.

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When to Home Manually

As a general rule, you should home manually if:

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Autohoming fails

You have changed or updated the calibration file robot.cal.

You are re-starting the system after a collision.

The controller was not shut down properly before powering off.

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In each of the situations described above, you should shut down and reboot
the controller, then home the arm manually. Once the arm has been homed,
you will be able to use autohome as before.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

59

Commissioning the System: Autohoming or Homing the Arm

Manually Homing the Arm

To home the arm manually, you place it in a known mechanical position and
initiate the homing routine. The homing routine rotates each motor until it
finds the index pulse for the encoder. The controller uses the index pulses and
the calibration data in the robot.cal file to establish the exact position of each
joint as a number of encoder pulses away from the arms zero position.

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To home the arm manually

1
With arm power turned on, move each joint until the tip of the pointer on
the stationary link aligns with the starting zone on the moving link, as
shown in Figure 5-1.

If you are using a CRS track, move the track saddle so that the calibration
marker on the track approximately lines up with the pointer on the PVC
linear seal.
Note:

To position the arm, you can either use motor commands or limp
the arm and move the joints manually.

Figure 5-1:

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Use the calibration markers to place the arm in a known mechanical position

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Note:

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Calibration markers on your arm may differ from this illustration.

To home the arm one joint at a time (useful if movement is restricted by

obstacles in the workcell), enter the ash command home n, where n is the
number of the joint to be homed. For example, to home only joint 2:
test> home 2

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3

To home all joints simultaneously, click the Home button on the Utility
tab in ActiveRobot Configuration, or enter the ash command:
test> home

The Home light on the front panel turns on automatically when all the joints
have been successfully homed. If the arm will not home, see Joint N Is Limp
on page 9-1 for troubleshooting suggestions.

510

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

Commissioning the System: Verifying Robot System Positioning

Verifying Robot System Positioning

Once the arm has been homed, you need to verify whether it is correctly
moving to programmed locations.
1

Move the arm to the ready position using the ash command ready.
Note:

If you cannot move to the ready position because of obstructions in

the workcell, you can use any taught location for this test. In this
case, you would move to the location using the move command.

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Verify that the arm is correctly positioned. In the ready position, the arm
should be in the orientation shown below:

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Re-Commissioningythe System
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Figure 5-2:

The CataLyst-3 arm in the ready position

If the arm does not correctly move to programmed locations, see Chapter 9,
Troubleshooting.

Schedule tests at regular intervals to ensure that your system keeps

functioning normally, and always re-commission your system whenever you
make a change to any workcell components. Once the system has been set up
and successfully commissioned, you can follow a much simpler procedure,
described in Basic Operations on page 6-1.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

511

Commissioning the System: Re-Commissioning the System

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Commissioning the System

CHAPTER 6

Basic Operations

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This chapter describes routine system procedures used when developing or

implementing a robot application. For information on how to create or
implement robot applications, see the Robot System Software Documentation
Guide on your documentation CD.

Pre-power Checklist

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Before turning on the power to your robot system, verify the following points:

The arm is not carrying a payload.

The robot work space is free of obstructions.

Operators and other personnel are outside the robot work space.

The E-Stop circuit is closed:

All triggered E-Stops have been reset.

All other devices in the E-Stop circuit, such as safety interlocks and
proximity sensors, are closed and the circuit is complete.

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Powering Up the System
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If you are using a development computer, the computer is connected to

the console port on the front of the controller.

Always stand outside the robot work space when turning on power.

Warning! Turning off system power without shutting down CROS may corrupt
controller memory and damage files on the controller. See Powering Down on
page 6-3 before turning off the controller.
To power up the system
1
If you are using a development computer, turn on the development
computer and open a terminal window in Robcomm3.
2

Standing outside the robot work space, switch on the controller power.
The controller begins cycling through its boot-up sequence.

When the controller has finished its boot sequence, the front panel
display will read:
C500C CROS
This indicates that the controller is ready.
Note:

If you do not see the ready message on the front panel display or
you encounter any errors, do not use the system. To correct bootup problems, refer to Chapter 9, Troubleshooting.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Basic Operations

61

Basic Operations: Turning on Arm Power

Turning on Arm Power

Before turning on arm power, make sure that an E-Stop button is in reach
and that operators and other personnel are well outside the robot work space.
Warning! An undiagnosed problem with your robot system could cause the
arm to move unpredictably when power is applied. You should always be
prepared to strike an E-Stop button when applying arm power.
To turn on arm power

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While standing outside the robot work space, press the Arm Power button on
the front panel of the controller. The LED on the Arm Power button should
light, indicating that the arm is powered on.

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If you cannot turn on arm power, check for triggered E-Stop devices. Reset all
triggered E-Stop devices and press the Arm Power button again.
To turn off arm power

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Striking any E-Stop button immediately removes power from the arm and
engages brakes on all joints to halt arm motion.

Managing Point of Control

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In order to prevent accidents within the workcell, your robot system is

designed so that only one device or process can control the arm at a time.

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Transferring Control With the Pause/Continue Button

Occasionally, when transferring control or issuing a command, the command
is interrupted and the Pause/Continue button on the controller begins to
flash. You may also see the terminal window message:

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Press the Pause/Continue button to gain robot point of control.

These messages indicate that the system requires direct confirmation that it
is safe to transfer control. Point of control can only be transferred by pressing
the Pause/Continue button on the controller.
Warning! Always assess potential dangers in the workcell before pressing the
Pause/Continue button. The robot system may immediately continue carrying out
commands as soon as the Pause/Continue button is pressed. Negligence could
result in personal injury or damage to your robot system.

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To transfer control with the Pause/Continue button

Determine whether it is safe to transfer control. In particular, ensure that

the work space is free of obstructions and that all personnel are outside
the safeguarded area.

If it is safe to transfer control, press the flashing Pause/Continue button

on the front of the controller.
Note:

You may also need to press the Arm Power button to restore power
to the arm.

The robot system transfers control. Any previously commanded motion

resumes.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Basic Operations

Basic Operations: Autohoming the Arm

Autohoming the Arm

The arm must be autohomed after each powerup before it can use world
locations and motion commands. Autohome the arm as described in
Autohoming or Homing the Arm on page 5-8.
Note:

Until the arm is homed, arm speed is limited to 10% and world motion
commands are disabled.

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Once autohoming is complete, the robot system is ready for use with a robot
application. Application development with ActiveRobot is discussed in detail
in the ActiveRobot User Guide on your Documentation CD.
Note:

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For more information on ash commands available through the

ActiveRobot terminal window, refer to the Application Shell Guide.

Powering Down

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Always ensure that the controller operating system is shut down before you
turn off the power.
Warning! Turning off system power without shutting down CROS may corrupt
controller memory and damage files on the controller.
Note:

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During the shutdown sequence, the controller turns off arm power and
saves homing data to the file conf/poweroff.cal.

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To power down from the development computer

1
In ActiveRobot Configuration, select the Controller tab.
2

Click Shutdown Controller.

Wait until the controller LCD screen displays the message:

C500C CROS
System Halted

Switch the controller power off.

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To power down manually

While holding down the Home button on the front panel, press and
release the Pause/Continue button.

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1

Release the Home button. The controller will begin shutting down.
Note:

You must complete steps 1 and 2 within a second or two. If nothing

happens, simply try again a little faster or a little slower.

Wait until the controller LCD screen displays the message:

C500C CROS
System Halted

Switch the controller power off.

Note:

You can also power down under program control with the ActiveRobot
shutdown method. For more information on shutdown and other
ActiveRobot commands, see the ActiveRobot User Guide.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Basic Operations

63

Basic Operations: Powering Down

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Basic Operations

CHAPTER 7

System Connections

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This chapter describes the pin layout and use of the connector ports provided
with your CataLyst-3 robot system.
When designing a connection to any robot system port, consider the following
points:

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Shut down and turn off the controller before connecting any devices.

Never connect devices while the controller is turned on. Connecting a live
device while the controller is on may damage the controller.

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You can use either the internal 24 V power supply, or an external supply.

If you use the internal 24 V supply, determine whether the 1 A rating is

sufficient for the load required by your devices. If it is not, use an external
power supply.

Be extremely cautious when wiring connectors. Carefully verify all

connections before connecting a custom-wired device.

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Warning! Incorrect wiring can seriously damage sensitive robot system

components. Verify that you have correctly matched the pin numbering
scheme and that all connections are properly wired before using the
connector.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

71

System Connections: Connecting End-of-arm Tools

Connecting End-of-arm Tools

A round connector on the wrist provides an interface for end-of-arm tools. If
your CataLyst is configured for pneumatic control (available as a factoryinstalled option), a double-valve pneumatic port replaces the gripper
connector.
servo gripper (standard)
or
pneumatic connector (option)

Figure 7-1:
Note:

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Connect end-of-arm tools to the connector on the side of the wrist.

The servo gripper connector is usually covered by a protective plug.

Servo Gripper Connector

This connector allows you to connect a CRS servo gripper to the CataLyst-3
arm. The pinouts for the connector are as follows:
Table 7-1:
Pin number

Function

+12 VDC

GND

Motor power 12 V

Motor power return

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Pinouts for the Servo Gripper

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dot on casing

Gripper feedback (0 to 5 VDC)

12

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Chassis GND

Enabling Servo Control

Before using servo-operated tools, you must set the gripper type.

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Note:

Refer to the Servo Gripper User Guide for full installation instructions.

To set the gripper type from ash

At the ash prompt, set the gripper type to servo by entering:

test> gtype servo

Save this setting in the robot system configuration file by entering:

test> cfg_save

You can also set the gripper type and perform gripper functions using
ActiveRobot commands. See the commands GripperCalibrate, GripperClose,

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: Connecting End-of-arm Tools

GripperDistance, GripperFinished, GripperFinish, GripperOpen, GripperStop,

GripperType in the ActiveRobot User Guide.
For more detailed information on the servo gripper connector, see the Servo
Gripper User Guide provided on your documentation CD.

Pneumatic Connector
The optional air connector on the wrist provides an
air supply for pneumatic grippers and other airdriven tools.

The pneumatic ports act in opposition so that when

one port is open, the other is always closed. You
control the state of the pneumatic ports with the
grip_open and grip_close commands.
Table 7-2:

Port settings for the air connector

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Figure 7-2: Air connector

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Action

state of port A

state of port B

grip_close

off

on

grip_open

on

Note:

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off

The pneumatic ports are not labelled. To determine which is A and

which is B, use one of the gripper commands and observe the result.

Warning! Loss of air pressure may result in dropped payload, or

deactivation of tooling. Re-pressurization may result in tool startup. Ensure
that your pneumatic tool contains appropriate safeguards.

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Enabling Pneumatic Control

Before using pneumatic tools, you must set the gripper type for your robot
system to enable pneumatic control.

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To set the gripper type from ash

1
At the ash prompt, set the gripper type to air by entering:
test> gtype air
2

Permanently save this setting in the robot system configuration file by

entering:

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test> cfg_save

You can also set the gripper type using ActiveRobot commands. See
GripperType and ConfigSave in the ActiveRobot User Guide for a more detailed
explanation.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

73

System Connections: Connecting End-of-arm Tools

Connecting a Pneumatic Tool

To use a pneumatic tool with the CataLyst-3, you must connect an air supply
to the arm. The air intake port is located just above the umbilical cable
connectors at the base of the arm.

Figure 7-3:

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Connect your air supply to the air intake port at the base of the arm

When connecting an air supply:

Do not exceed a maximum pressure of 100 psi [689 kPa].

Use only dry, clean, filtered, non-lubricated air.

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Warning! The pneumatic valve exhausts inside the robot. Humid air can
cause condensation inside the arm, leading to system failure or unexpected
behavior.

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To connect the air supply to the arm

1
Screw an M5 (metric) or 10-32 (Imperial) air line fitting into the air intake
port at the back of the arm.
2

Connect your air line to the fitting, making sure that it forms a secure
connection.

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To connect your tool to the pneumatic connector

1
Screw an M5 x 0.8 (metric) or 10-32 (Imperial) threaded fitting into each
of the two air ports on the wrist.
2

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Connect pneumatic hoses for your tool to the fittings.

74

Secure all hoses to the arm to prevent them from becoming pinched.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: The User I/O Connector

The User I/O Connector

The user I/O connector provides a convenient access point on the wrist for
end-of-arm devices such as bar code readers.

15 14 13 12 11 10 9

User I/O DB-15

(base of arm)

3
8

2
7

1
6

User I/O DB-9

(wrist)

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Figure 7-4:

The wiring for the DB-9 connector on the wrist is routed through the inside of the
arm and emerges from a DB-15 connector at the base

Table 7-3:

Pinouts for the User I/O connector

DB-15 pin number DB-9 pin number

(base of arm)
(wrist)

User I/O 1

User I/O 2

User I/O 3

User I/O 4

User I/O 5

User I/O 6

User I/O 7

User I/O 8

Shield chassis GND

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9

10-15

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Function

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4
9

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Not connected

To integrate user I/O devices into an application under program

control, you must connect them to the controller GPIO port. See
General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO) on page 7-11.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

75

System Connections: Umbilical Cable Connectors

Umbilical Cable Connectors

The feedback and motor power cables link the controller to the arm.

Motor Power Connector

5

9
15
20
24

10
16
21

Figure 7-5:

Motor power connector for the CataLyst-3 arm

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The motor power cable has a 24 pin connector at each end. The pin layout is
as follows:
Table 7-4:

Pinouts for the motor power connector in Figure 7-5

Pin #

Signal Name

Description

J1_MtrPwr+

Joint 1 motor power 30 V at 2A maximum

J1_MtrPwr-

Joint 1 motor power return to GND

J2_MtrPwr+

Joint 2 motor power 30 V at 2A maximum

J2_MtrPwr-

Joint 2 motor power return to GND

J3_MtrPwr+

J3_MtrPwr-

Shield GND

8 to 24

Not connected

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Joint 3 motor power 30 V at 2A maximum

Joint 3 motor power return to GND

Shield chassis ground

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: Umbilical Cable Connectors

Feedback Connector
4

10
17

5
11
18
25
34
42
49

24
33
41
48
54
57

Figure 7-6:

55

Feedback connector for the CataLyst-3 arm

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The feedback cable connector has a 57 pin connector at each end. The pin
layout is as follows:
Table 7-5:

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Pin #

Signal Name

Description

1A

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

1B

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

2A

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

2B

1A*

1B*

1Z

8
9
10
11

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Pinouts for the feedback connector in Figure 7-6

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RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC
RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

2Z

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

2A*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

2B*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

BRAKE_J1

35V at 100 mA

SG_MTR +

15V at 300 mA

13

Not connected

14

1Z*

15

Not connected

16

Not connected

17

ENC_VCC_J1

Joint 1 encoder supply +5 VDC at 80 mA

18

BRAKE

Brake for joints 2 and 3. 35 V at 200 mA (total)

19

Not connected

20

3A

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

21

3B

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

22

Not connected

23

Not connected

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

77

System Connections: Umbilical Cable Connectors

Pin #

Signal Name

Description

24

ENC_GND

Joint 1 encoder digital return to GND

25

SG Motor-

Servo gripper motor digital return 15V at 300 mA

26

Not connected

27

Not connected

28

3Z

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

29

3A*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

30

3B*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

31

Not connected

32

BRAKE_GND

Return for joint 1 brake supply

33

BRAKERET

Return for joint 2 and joint 3 brake supply

34 to 39

Not connected

40

SG_GND

Servo gripper feedback ground

41

2Z*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate, 0 to 5 VDC

42 to 46

Not connected

47

CABLE ALIVE

48

SGRIP_POSFB Servo Gripper position feedback. 0 to 4.7 VDC, 1 mA

49

Not connected

50

Not connected

51

Vcc

Joint 2 encoder supply +5 VDC at 80 mA

52

Vcc

Joint 3 encoder supply +5 VDC at 80 mA

53

+12V_SUPPLY +12 V at 200 mA used by:

54
55
56
57

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Air GND

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Cable status check +12 V, 2.5 mA return

ENC GND

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Servo gripper potentiometer Vcc

Air solenoid supply
Cable status check

Air solenoid return (switched by software control)

Servo gripper potentiometer return to GND
Encoder digital return for joint 2

Not connected
ENC GND

Encoder digital return for joint 3

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: The Expansion Amplifier Connector (option)

The Expansion Amplifier Connector (option)

3

8
14
20
25

4
9
15
21
28

26

Figure 7-7:

Expansion amplifier connector

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The optional expansion amplifier connector on the back of the controller

allows you to add additional axes to your system. It can also be used to
synchronize devices with the robot system arm power and brake circuits.
Table 7-6:
Pin

Signal Name Signature

6A

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 6

6B

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 6

6Z

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 6

Vcom-6

10 V analog output, 1 mA max.

Voltage control output for axis 6

6A*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 6

6B*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 6

6Z*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 6

ArmOn-

Normally open switch contact, 48V, 100mA max. Arm power switch contact

7A

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 7

10

7B

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 7

11

7Z

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 7

12

Vcom-7

10 V analog output, 1 mA max.

Voltage control output for axis 7

Vcc

+5 V at 300 mA

Encoder supply, +5 V at 300 mA

7A*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 7

7B*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 7

7Z*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 7

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Description

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17

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18

GND

19

ArmOn+

Normally open switch contact, 48V, 100mA max. Arm power switch contact

20

Brake+

Normally open switch contact, 48V, 100mA max. Brake switch contact

21

Vcom-8

10 V analog output, 1 mA max.

Voltage control output for axis 8

22

8A

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 8

23

8B

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 8

24

8Z

RS422+, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 8

25

Brake-

Normally open switch contact, 48V, 100mA max. Brake switch contact

26

8A*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 8

27

8B*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 8

28

8Z*

RS422-, 200 KHz maximum pulse rate

Encoder feedback input, axis 8

13
14
15
16

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Pinouts for the expansion amplifier connector in Figure 7-7

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+12 VDC

Encoder digital return

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

79

System Connections: The Expansion Amplifier Connector (option)

Connecting Additional Axes

The expansion amplifier connector allows you to connect up to three
additional axes, numbered 6, 7, and 8.
Note:

The expansion amplifier option uses a standard CPC-28 connector.

Note:

See also the commands AxisPGain, AxisNegativeLimit,

AxisTurnsPerUnit, AxisPulsesPerMotorTurn in the ActiveRobot User
Guide.

To connect an additional axis

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To power the axis encoder, connect it between the Vcc (pin 13) 5V supply
and GND (pin 18).

Connect the axis voltage control signal input to Vcom, which is a 10 V

analog output referenced to GND.

Connect encoder feedback for your additional axis to the appropriate A,

A*, B, B*, and Z channels.
Note:

Z is used for the zero cross signal, while A* and B* are

complementary channels out of phase from A and B. The zero cross
signal does not require a complementary channel.

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Use the ArmOn+ and ArmOn- contact signals to switch power to the
additional axis when arm power is engaged through the controller. If the
48V, 100 mA rating for this switch is insufficient for your circuit, use
these signals to control an external relay instead.
Note:

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The ArmOn contact pair is open when arm power is off.

Use the Brake+ and Brake- contact signals to control the release of
external brakes. These contacts engage approximately 200 ms after
ArmOn engages.

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Note:

The Brake contact pair is open when arm power is off.

Connecting to the E-Stop Chain

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You can also use the ArmOn and Brake switch contacts on the expansion
amplifier connector to remove power from external devices when the controller
E-Stop is pressed.
To connect an external device to the E-Stop chain

Connect all external devices in series between pins 8 and 19 (ArmOn) or

between pins 20 and 25 (Brake) on the expansion amplifier connector, as
shown in Table 7-6.
Note:

When an E-Stop is pressed, the Brake contacts engage approximately

200 ms after ArmOn. Contacts are open when arm power is off.

Do not use the GND pin for your external device if you are using the Brake
contact pair to remove power when an E-Stop is pressed. When arm power is
off, the controller maintains 10 between the Brake+ signal and GND.

710

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO)

General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO)

Connect devices to the GPIO port on the back of the controller to monitor and
control external events in your robot application.
The general purpose input/output (GPIO) port provides a total of sixteen
inputs and outputs for connecting external hardware devices to the robot
system. With the exception of the analog input, GPIO inputs and outputs are
electrically isolated from the main controller power and logic circuits.

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GPIO outputs include low current optically isolated relay drivers with 50 mA
capacity, and 1 A relay contact outputs with normally closed (NC) and
normally open (NO) contacts. All relays are connected to a common line,
RLYCOM, which is fused on the front panel.

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Connect devices to the GPIO port through a standard DD-50 connector. To

connect devices more easily, you can extend the port with the optional GPIO
termination block (part number SEC-23-501) available from CRS.
Note:

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For installation instructions for the GPIO termination block, see

Appendix B, GPIO Termination Block Option.

Warning! The GPIO port uses a ribbon-type pin numbering scheme instead
of standard DD-50 numbering. Be careful to match the pin layout for your
connector to the pin numbers shown here. Incorrectly matched pins in your GPIO
connection can severely damage the controller.

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Pinouts for the GPIO Port

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The GPIO controller port uses the numbering convention for a ribbon-type
connector instead of standard DD-50 numbering.
Note:

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The raised numbers printed on the plastic connector are the standard
numbers, not the ribbon-type numbers used by the GPIO port. Always
refer to the large numbers printed directly on the controller and the
numbering scheme shown in Figure 7-8.

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Figure 7-8:

Ribbon cable numbering scheme used by the GPIO connector

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

711

System Connections: General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO)

Table 7-7:
Pin

Function

Signature

+24 V

24 VDC internal Optional Source for 24 V, internal

+24 V

24 VDC internal Optional Source for 24 V, internal

IPW

20-28 VDC

Isolated Power, externally supplied

IPW

20-28 VDC

Isolated Power, externally supplied

GPI0

Opto

General Purpose input #1

GPI1

Opto

General Purpose input #2

GPI2

Opto

General Purpose input #3

GPI3

Opto

General Purpose input #4

GPI4

Opto

General Purpose input #5

10

GPI5

Opto

General Purpose input #6

11

GPI6

Opto

General Purpose input #7

12

GPI7

Opto

General Purpose input #8

13

GPI8

Opto

General Purpose input #9

14

GPI9

Opto

General Purpose input #10

15

GPI10

Opto

General Purpose input #11

16

GPI11

Opto

General Purpose input #12

17

GPI12

Opto

General Purpose input #13

18

GPI13

Opto

General Purpose input #14

19

GPI14

Opto

General Purpose input #15

20

GPI15

Opto

General Purpose input #16

21

GPO0

Opto

General Purpose output #1

22

GPO1

Opto

General Purpose output #2

GPO2

Opto

General Purpose output #3

GPO3

Opto

General Purpose output #4

GPO4

Opto

General Purpose output #5

GPO5

Opto

General Purpose output #6

GPO6

Opto

General Purpose output #7

28

GPO7

Opto

General Purpose output #8

29

GPO8

Opto

General Purpose output #9

30

GPO9

Opto

General Purpose output #10

31

GPO10

Opto

General Purpose output #11

32

GPO11

Opto

General Purpose output #12

33

Shield

34

N/C

35

GPO13NC Relay

General Purpose output #13, Normally closed contact

36

GPO13NO Relay

General Purpose output #13, Normally open contact

37

GPO14NC Relay

General Purpose output #14, Normally closed contact

38

GPO14NO Relay

General Purpose output #14, Normally open contact

23
24
25
26
27

Pinouts for the GPIO connector

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Description

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO)

Pin

Function

Signature

Description

39

GPO15NC Relay

General Purpose output #15, Normally closed contact

40

GPO15NO Relay

General Purpose output #15, Normally open contact

41

GPO16NC Relay

General Purpose output #16, Normally closed contact

42

GPO16NO Relay

General Purpose output #16, Normally open contact

43

RLYCOM

Relay common

All relays attached here, and to front panel fuse

44

RLYCOM

Relay common

All relays attached here, and to front panel fuse

45

Analogln1 Analog

Provides an analog input to the controller

46

Analogln2

Not supported

47

IRT

IsoReturn

Return for IPW, externally supplied

48

IRT

IsoReturn

Return for IPW, externally supplied

49

Gnd

Digital

Internal ground return for 24 V

50

Gnd

Digital

Internal ground return for 24 V

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Note:

Opto = optocoupler (optically coupled). N/C = not connected. ISORET=

isolated return.

Note:

All opto-outputs are NPN, all opto-inputs require NPN devices.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

713

System Connections: General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO)

Wiring Schematic For the GPIO Connector

Inside Controller

Outside Controller

+24V_Internal
ISO_SUPPLY

INTERNAL_24V_SUPPLY

EXT_SUPPLY
(20-28Vdc)

1
2
3

10 to 40 VDC, max.

Sample Internal Input Stage

+ISO_SUPPLY

Input_01

Input_02

Input_03

Input_04

Input_05

Input_06

10

Input_07

11

Input_08

12

Input_09

13

Input_10
Input_11
Input_12

ISO_SUPPLY

Input_13
Input_14
Input_15
Input_16

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Output_01
Output_02
Output_03

10 to 40 VDC, max.
50 mA per output

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Output_04
Output_05
Output_06
Output_07
Output_08
Output_09

Sample Internal Output Stage

Output_10

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Output_11

Relay_Common
FP_F2 or F10

2 A, 30 VDC

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Output_12

14

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ISO_GROUND

15
16
17
18
19
20

EXT_SUPPLY

LOAD
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32

EXT_SUPPLY

43
44

Output_13_RELAY_NC

35

Output_13_RELAY_NO

36

Output_14_RELAY_NC

37

Output_14_RELAY_NO

38

Output_15_RELAY_NC

39

Output_15_RELAY_NO

40

Output_16_RELAY_NC

41

Output_16_RELAY_NO

42

AnalogIn_1

45

AnalogIn_2

46

LOAD

EXT_SUPPLY

5V

47
ISO_RETURN

48
49

INTERNAL_GROUND

50
EXT_SUPPLY

Figure 7-9:

714

Wiring schematic for the GPIO connector

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: General Purpose Input/Output Port (GPIO)

Powering the GPIO Circuit

You must provide power in order to use the isolated inputs and outputs in the
GPIO circuit. If you use the internal controller supply, GPIO inputs and
outputs will not be isolated from the main controller circuit.
Note:

The internal power supply can only provide a maximum of 1 A for all
external devices. Take care not to overload the controller.

Connecting External Power

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Use a 20-28 VDC power supply.

Connect the positive terminal from your external supply to the

+ISO_SUPPLY line on pin 4, as shown in Figure 7-9.

Connect the common ground terminal from your external supply to the
ISO_RETURN line on pin 48.

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Warning! Do not allow a potential difference of more than 50 V between

the controller ground and the reference ground for the optically isolated
GPIO circuit. A large difference in potential between the two circuits could
seriously damage the controller.

Connecting Internal Power

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Do not use the internal supply if you require an isolated circuit for your
GPIO devices.

Using a wire jumper, connect the +ISO_SUPPLY line to the

INTERNAL_24V_SUPPLY line by connecting pins 2 and 3, as shown in
Figure 7-9.

Using a wire jumper, connect the ISO_RETURN line to the

INTERNAL_GROUND line by connecting pins 48 and 49, as shown in
Figure 7-9.

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Connecting Inputs and Outputs

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Connect inputs and outputs to the GPIO circuit as shown in Figure 7-9.
Note:

An open input is off.

Connect input devices as switches between the desired INPUT line (pins 5
through 20) and the ground from your power supply.

Note:

The internal power supply ground is connected to pin 50.

Connect output devices between the desired OUTPUT line (pins 21

through 32) and the positive terminal from your external supply. Do not
exceed a load of 50 mA per output.
Note:

The positive INTERNAL_24V_SUPPLY line is connected to pin 1.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

715

System Connections: System Input/Output (SYSIO)

Using the Relays

Relays behave like switches between the output pairs and the shared
Relay_Common line. Each relay output terminal consists of a normally open
(NO) and a normally closed (NC) contact pair.
If an external power supply is connected to the relay contacts, take care not to
exceed the 2 A, 30 VDC rating for the circuit.

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Warning! The relay circuit may be damaged by AC power. The controller

relays are not rated for AC use.
Note:

Relay contacts are fused through the front panel fuse F10.

Using GPIO Devices in Your Application

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To integrate GPIO devices into your application, refer to the following

commands in the ActiveRobot User Guide: AnalogInput, CTPath, CTPathGo,
Input, Inputs, Motor, Output, Outputs.

System Input/Output (SYSIO)

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The system input/output (SYSIO) port on the back of the controller provides
inputs and outputs to the main controller circuit for connecting safety devices
and replicating the front panel input buttons.
Note:

The front panel LCD status display cannot be replicated through the
SYSIO port.

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Designing a Safe Front Panel Device

The SYSIO port allows you to replicate the front panel buttons on a remote
device. Because of the dangers inherent in operating a robot system, you must
ensure that your remote panel is safe for the operators of your robot system:

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Provide an E-Stop button within reach of the remote panel. Ideally,

the E-Stop should be located next to the replicated front panel buttons.

Do not provide multiple points of control. If your remote panel allows

the operator to enable arm power or enable an application to continue,
you must ensure that the Arm Power and Pause/Continue buttons on the
controller are inaccessible whenever the remote panel is in use. You can
make the front panel inaccessible simply by locking the controller into a
secure cabinet.

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Note:

716

The cabinet must also provide sufficient air flow for the controller.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: System Input/Output (SYSIO)

The SYSIO Port

The SYSIO port provides optically isolated inputs intended for 20 to 28V
operation. The outputs from the SYSIO connector are 24 V, 50 mA outputs,
capable of supporting a combined load of up to 1 A, suitable for driving low
current lamps or indicators. If larger voltages and currents are required,
connect an external power supply and use the outputs to drive relays.

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Connect devices to the SYSIO port through a standard DB-25 connector.

Warning! The SYSIO port uses a ribbon-type pin numbering scheme instead
of standard DB-25 numbering. Be careful to match the pin layout for your
connector to the pin numbers shown here. Incorrectly matched pins in your
SYSIO connection can severely damage the controller.

Pinouts For the SYSIO Port

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Like the GPIO port, the SYSIO controller port uses the numbering convention
for a ribbon-type connector instead of standard DB-25 numbering.
Note:

25
24
Figure 7-10:

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The raised numbers printed on the plastic connector are the standard
numbers, not the ribbon-type numbers used by the SYSIO port.
Always refer to the large numbers printed directly on the controller
and the numbering scheme shown in Figure 7-10.
25
24

23
22

21
20

19
18

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17

16

15

14

13

12

11

9
10

7
8

5
6

3
4

1
2

1
2

Ribbon cable numbering scheme used by the SYSIO connector

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

717

System Connections: System Input/Output (SYSIO)

Table 7-8:
Pin

Function

Signature

Description

+24 V

Power

Optional Source for external I/O, internal supply

+24 V

Power

Optional Source for external I/O, internal supply

IPW

20-28 VDC

Isolated input for external power supply

IPW

20-28 VDC

Isolated input for external power supply

RPS

Opto-input

Pause/Continue

ERA

Opto-output

unused

HMS

Opto-input

Home Request

R0A

Opto-output

Pause/Continue Ack

PRS

Opto-input

F2

10

R1A

Opto-output

unused

11

CSS

Opto-input

F1

12

HMA

Opto-output

Home Ack

13

JigIns

Opto-input

unused

14

PRA

Opto-output

F2 button Ack

15

APA

Opto-output

Arm Power Ack

16

CSA

Opto-output

F1 button Ack

17

REMONSW+

Contact-input

18

REMONSW-

Contact-input

19

REMESTOP+

Contact-input

remote E-Stop

20

REMESTOP-

Contact-input

remote E-Stop

21

N/C

22

Shield

23
24
25

Note:

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Note:

Pinouts for the SYSIO connector

718

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unused
Ground shield

IRT

IsoRet

Isolated return for external power supply

IRT

IsoRet

Isolated return for external power supply

Gnd

Digital

Internal return for 24 V

Opto = optocoupler (optically coupled). N/C = not connected, ISORET=

isolated return, Ack = acknowledged.
All opto-outputs are NPN, all opto-inputs require NPN devices.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: System Input/Output (SYSIO)

Wiring Schematic for the SYSIO Connector

Inside Controller

Outside Controller

+24V_Internal
ISO_SUPPLY

INTERNAL_24V_SUPPLY

EXT_SUPPLY (20-28Vdc)

2
3

10 to 40 VDC, max.
+ISO_SUPPLY

Pause/Cont_Input_Sw.

Home_Input_Sw.

F2_Input_Sw.

F1_Input_Sw.

11

Sample Internal Input Stage

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ISO_GROUND

+Arm_On_Mom_Contact_Inp**

17

-Arm_On_Mom_Contact_Inp**

18

+E-Stop_Input_Sw. (contact only)

19

-E-Stop_Input_Sw. (contact only)

20

ISO_SUPPLY

Pause/Cont_Ouput_Sig

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10 to 40 VDC, max.
50 mA per output

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ISO_RETURN

Sample Internal Output Stage

Figure 7-11:

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Emergency
Stop INPUT

EXT_SUPPLY

LOAD

12

F2_Output_Sig

14

Arm_Power_Output_Sig

15

F1_Output_Sig

16

INTERNAL_GROUND

tD

Remote Arm Power

Control Input
(Momentary Contact Only)

23
24
25

EXT_SUPPLY

Wiring schematic for the SYSIO connector

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

719

System Connections: System Input/Output (SYSIO)

Installing a Workcell Beacon

To increase safety in the workcell, you can install a workcell beacon to warn
operators when arm power is on. The 24 V arm power output on the SYSIO
port is sufficient to power a small 24 V, 25 mA lamp.
To connect a workcell beacon light
Connect a 24 V, 25 mA lamp between pins 15 and 23 on the SYSIO port.

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If you do not have any external E-Stop devices, connect a wire jumper
across pins 19 and 20 to close the SYSIO E-Stop circuit.

CRS recommends the following Beacon Lamp and Tower assembly, available
from Patlite Visual Lighting Products:

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Catalog Number

Name

Electrical Specifications

LE102P/FBP-A

Amber Flashing Tower Lamp

0.6W, 24 V, 25 mA

SZ-011

Mounting Bracket for Tower

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For ordering information, contact [email protected] or visit their website

http://www.patlite.com.

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Connecting External E-Stop Devices

You can connect additional E-Stop safety devices through the E-Stop contact
terminals on the SYSIO port. For guidelines on E-Stop design, see Adding EStop Devices on page 4-10.

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To connect external devices to the controller E-Stop circuit

Connect all E-Stop devices in series between pins 19 and 20 on the SYSIO
port, as shown in Figure 7-11.

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Replicating the Arm Power Button

You can replicate the front panel Arm Power button through the Arm_On
contact terminals on the SYSIO port.
Warning! Do not provide multiple points of control in your workcell. The Arm
Power button must only be accessible from one location. If you provide an
external Arm Power button through the SYSIO port, you must ensure that the Arm
Power button on the front panel is safely locked out.

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For guidelines on how to safely replicate the front panel, see Designing a Safe
Front Panel Device on page 7-16.

To replicate the Arm Power button

For safety reasons, you must use a momentary contact switch for the Arm
Power button. This prevents arm power from being applied automatically
when an E-Stop is reset.

Connect the switch for your external Arm Power button between pins 17
and 18 on the SYSIO port.

If you do not have any external E-Stop devices, connect a wire jumper
across pins 19 and 20 to close the SYSIO E-Stop circuit.

Lock out the front panel Arm Power button.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: System Input/Output (SYSIO)

Powering Inputs and Outputs in the SYSIO Circuit

You must provide power in order to use the isolated inputs and outputs in the
SYSIO circuit. If you use the internal controller supply, SYSIO inputs and
outputs will not be isolated from the main controller circuit.
Note:

The internal power supply can only provide a maximum of 1 A for all
external devices. Take care not to overload the controller.

Connecting External Power

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Use a 20-28 VDC power supply.

Connect the positive terminal from your external supply to the

+ISO_SUPPLY line on pin 4, as shown in Figure 7-11.

Connect the common ground terminal from your external supply to the
ISO_RETURN line on pin 24.

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Warning! Do not allow a potential difference of more than 50 V between

the controller ground and the reference ground for the optically isolated
SYSIO circuit. A large difference in potential between the two circuits could
seriously damage the controller.

Connecting Internal Power

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Do not use the internal supply if you require an opto-isolated circuit for
your SYSIO devices.

Using a wire jumper, connect the +ISO_SUPPLY line to the

INTERNAL_24V_SUPPLY line by connecting pins 2 and 3, as shown in
Figure 7-11.

Using a wire jumper, connect the ISO_RETURN line to the

INTERNAL_GROUND line by connecting pins 24 and 25, as shown in
Figure 7-11.

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Creating a Remote Front Panel

You can connect a remote front panel using the optically isolated SYSIO input
and output terminals provided by the SYSIO port.
Note:

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An open input is off.

Warning! Do not provide multiple points of control in your workcell. The

Pause/Continue button must only be accessible from one location. If you provide
an external Pause/Continue button through the SYSIO port, you must ensure that
the Pause/Continue button on the front panel is safely locked out.

For guidelines on how to safely replicate the front panel, see Designing a Safe
Front Panel Device on page 7-16.

Connect input devices as switches between the desired INPUT line (pins 5,
7, 9, and 11) and the ground from your power supply.
Note:

The internal power supply ground is connected to pin 25.

Connect output lamps between the desired OUTPUT line (pins 8, 12, 14,
15, and 16) and the positive terminal from your external supply. Do not
exceed a load of 50 mA per output.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

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System Connections: Serial Ports

Note:

The positive INTERNAL_24V_SUPPLY line is connected to pin 1.

If you do not have any external E-Stop devices, connect a wire jumper
across pins 19 and 20 to close the SYSIO E-Stop circuit.

Using SYSIO Devices in Your Application

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To integrate SYSIO devices into your application, refer to the following

commands in the ActiveRobot User Guide: AllowArmPower, IsPowered,
PanelButton, PanelButtons, PanelLight, WaitForButton.

Serial Ports

The C500C controller provides four ports for serial communication:

The Teach Pendant port on the front of the controller uses a nonstandard connector and is reserved for the optional teach pendant.

The SIO0 and SIO1 ports at the back of the controller use standard DB-9
connectors and are available for general use.
Note:

The SIO0 and SIO1 ports are configured as standard DTE ports.
To connect a computer to one of these ports, you must use a null
modem serial cable.

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The Console port on the front of the controller uses a standard DB-9
connector and is used to connect a development computer to the
controller.
Note:

The Console port is configured as a standard DCE port.

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Changing Serial Port Baud Rates

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The serial ports can be configured to communicate at 300, 600, 1200, 2400,
4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, or 115200 baud. You can temporarily
change the baud rate with the system command siocfg, or permanently set
the baud rate via the controllers diagnostic mode. Default communication
speeds for the C500C controller are provided in Table 7-9.

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Warning! Do not change the baud rate for the teach pendant. The Pendant
port must be set to 19200 baud in order to use the teach pendant.
Table 7-9:

Default serial port baud rates

Port name

ID Number

Default baud rate

SIO0

57600

SIO1

57600

Teach Pendant

19200

Console

57600

Note:

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The port ID is used to identify the port with the siocfg -c option.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

System Connections: Serial Ports

To change the baud rate temporarily

From the system prompt, use the command siocfg. For example, to set
the console port to its default settings, enter:
$ siocfg -c 3 -b 57600 -d 8 -p 0 -s 1
Note:

The default settings for the Console port are 57600 baud, 8 data
bits, no parity, 1 stop bit. For more information on siocfg, see the
CROS and System Shell Guide on your documentation CD.

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All parameters set with siocfg are lost when the controller is shut down.

To permanently change the baud rate in diagnostic mode

1
Shut down and turn off the controller.

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Connect a development computer to the Console port on the front of the

controller.

Using Robcomm3 or another terminal emulator, open a terminal window.

Note:

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Hold down the F1, F2, and Pause/Continue buttons simultaneously while
turning on the controller power. The controller will boot into diagnostic
mode and display the message:
C500C-B
Diagnostic Mode

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Your terminal session must be configured to communicate at the

correct baud rate for the controller Console port. If your Console
baud rate is unsupported by Robcomm3, you must use a third
party terminal emulator.

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In your terminal window, you should see the diagnostic mode prompt.
Enter the following command:
: set

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The current settings for your controller are displayed.

6

To reset the Console port to its factory default settings, enter the following
commands:
: set cport 3
: set cspeed 57600

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: set tport 3
: set tspeed 57600
: boot

Note:

File transfer and communication should generally use the same

baud rate. cport and cspeed set the serial port and baud rate for
communications, tport and tspeed set the serial port and
communication rate for file transfer over a given port.

Note:

To communicate with Robcomm3, cspeed and tspeed can only be

set to 9600, 19200, 38400, or 57600 bps.

When the controller finishes booting, you should be able to connect at the new
baud rate.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

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System Connections: Serial Ports

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: System Connections

CHAPTER 8

Maintenance Procedures

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In order to prolong the life of your robot system, inspect the components of
your robot and schedule routine maintenance as described in this chapter.

Cleaning

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Warning! Electric Shock Hazard. Do not immerse any part of the robot system
in liquid.

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Exterior surfaces on the arm and controller should be cleaned using mild
cleaning products only. Some solvents and degreasers may damage printed
surfaces.
When cleaning the arm, take care not to allow liquids to seep inside the
controller or enter the arm casing. Be particularly careful to avoid connectors
when cleaning the wrist and the waist area on the arm.

Routine Inspection

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To ensure that your robot system continues to function safely and efficiently,
inspect the robot exterior and functional specifications at regular intervals.

Monthly Inspection

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Inspect the air filter at the back of the controller and clean it if necessary.
The filter can be removed from the controller and rinsed under water.

If the arm is dirty, wipe the exterior clean with a damp cloth.

Visually inspect the arm and cables for signs of damage or wear. Do not
use the robot with a damaged cable.

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Inspect all E-Stops and safety devices to ensure that they are functioning
normally. See Checking Devices in the E-Stop Circuit on page 5-6 for a
detailed procedure.

After every 1,000 to 2,000 hours, re-lubricate the drive chains. See Relubricating the Chain on page 8-2.

Inspect the flex covers for creases, splits, or cracks. Replacement flex
covers are available from CRS.

Annual Inspection

Verify that the arm accurately carries out tasks in your robot application.

Check arm covers for wear and cracks.

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Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled Maintenance

Scheduled Maintenance
Scheduled maintenance procedures should only be carried out by CRSauthorized service technicians.
To keep the arm in good working order, schedule the following maintenance
procedures according to the duty cycle for your application.

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When assessing the duty cycle for your application, consider factors such as
the environment in which the robot is used, typical payloads, cycle times,
accelerations, distance traveled, and how often the arm is in motion.
Example of Duty Cycle Determination

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A robot system is used in a laboratory application to move a light payload. The

environment is controlled, the payload is less than rated, and default
accelerations are used. In addition, the arm is only in motion 50% of the time
during a pick-and-place operation.

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Based on this information, the robot in this example has a light duty cycle.

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Re-lubricating the Chain

To keep the arm in good working order, you should re-apply lubricant to the
drive chains after every 1,000 to 2,000 hours of use, as determined by your
duty cycle.

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Checking Front Panel Fuses and Circuit Breakers
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For instructions on how to lubricate the chains, please contact CRS Customer
Support.

Fuses and circuit breakers located inside the access panel on the front of the
controller protect the controller circuits from overload.

fuse access panel

Figure 8-1:

The fuses are located behind the fuse access panel.

Under normal operating conditions, the front panel fuses should not need to
be replaced. A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker may indicate a more
serious problem with your robot system. If you replace fuses or reset circuit
breakers often within a short period of time and cannot identify the cause of
the failure, contact the Customer Support Group for assistance.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Maintenance Procedures

Maintenance Procedures: Inspecting AC Fuses

Table 8-1:

Front panel fuses

Fuse

Signal Name

Fuse Rating

Function

F1

AXIS 1

250 V, 2A, circuit breaker

axis 1 motor

F2

AXIS 2

250 V, 2A, circuit breaker

axis 2 motor

F3

AXIS 3

250 V, 2A, circuit breaker

axis 3 motor

F8

GRIPPER

250 V, 0.38A, slow blow

servo gripper

F9

24VDC

250 V, 2A, slow blow

24V power supply

main controller board circuits
internal 24 V power supply

F10

RLYCOM

250 V, 2A, slow blow

GPIO relay common

Note:

All fuses are standard 1/4 in. x 1 1/4 in.

To inspect and reset a circuit breaker

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With the controller shut down and powered off, open the fuse panel on
the front panel of the C500C controller.

Examine the circuit breakers. A tripped circuit breaker will have sprung
outward from its casing, revealing a white band.

To reset a tripped circuit breaker, push the breaker in until it clicks back
into its casing. The white band should no longer be showing.

Close the fuse panel.

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To inspect and replace a controller fuse

1

With the controller shut down and powered off, open the fuse panel on
the front panel of the C500C controller.

Unscrew the fuse clip and remove the affected fuse.

Measure the resistance across the fuse. If the resistance is larger than
2 , the fuse has blown and must be replaced.

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Note:

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Always test fuses with an Ohm-meter. Visual inspection can be

deceptive.

Insert a new fuse of the same rating in the fuse clip. Ratings for the
controller front panel fuses are given in Table 8-1.

Close the fuse panel.

Inspecting AC Fuses
The AC fuses for your robot system are located inside the fuse drawer at the
back of the controller.
Warning! High Voltage. Always shut down and unplug the controller before
inspecting the AC fuses.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Maintenance Procedures

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Maintenance Procedures: Inspecting AC Fuses

Table 8-2:

AC fuses required for the CataLyst-3 Robot System

Mains Voltage

Required Fuses

100 VAC

8 A, 250 V, 6.3mm x 32mm [ in. x 1 in.], slow blow

115 VAC

8 A, 250 V, 6.3mm x 32mm [ in. x 1 in.], slow blow

230 VAC

5 A, 250 V, 6.3mm x 32mm [ in. x 1 in.], slow blow

To inspect the AC Fuses

1
Shut down and turn off the controller.
2

Unplug the power cord from the power

connector at the back of the controller.

Insert a screwdriver below the clip to release

the fuse drawer.

Make sure that the voltage is properly

selected for your local mains power. If it is
not correctly set, see Installing the
Controller Fuse Drawer on page 4-4.

Remove the two AC fuses from the fuse drawer and measure the
resistance across each fuse. If the resistance is larger than 2 , the fuse
has blown and must be replaced.
Note:

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Always test fuses with an Ohm-meter. Visual inspection can be

deceptive.

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If necessary, replace blown fuses with the appropriate fuses for your local
mains power. Determine the required fuse rating from the voltages shown
in Table 8-2.

Replace the fuse drawer into the power module and push until you hear
the drawer click into place.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Maintenance Procedures

Maintenance Procedures: Preparing the Robot System For Shipping

Preparing the Robot System For Shipping

If you need to ship the robot system, follow these guidelines to ensure that the
arm and controller are packaged safely:

Figure 8-2:

Limp the arm and tuck it forward against its hardstops.

Support the arm so that its weight does not rest on the wrist.

Use the Robcomm3 file transfer utility to make a backup copy of all files
in the /app and /conf directories on the controller.

Use the original packing materials.

Packing position for the CataLyst-3

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Fasten the arm to its wooden shipping board with four bolts and
secure it with the pre-shaped foam box fill.

Secure the controller in the pre-shaped foam box fill

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Fill any remaining space inside the controller and arm shipping crates
with foam.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Maintenance Procedures

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Maintenance Procedures: Preparing the Robot System For Shipping

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Maintenance Procedures

CHAPTER 9

Troubleshooting

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This chapter contains diagnostic procedures to help you correct problems

with your robot system. If a problem cannot be resolved easily, see
Contacting the Customer Support Group on page 9-6.

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Warning! Do not open the controller case or remove arm covers unless
instructed by CRS-authorized personnel. Service procedures should only be
carried out by qualified service technicians.

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Troubleshooting Common Problems

The following are commonly seen problems that can be resolved without
opening the controller or the arm covers.

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The Controller LCD Display Remains Blank

If the controller display remains blank after the system is powered on, there
may be a problem with the power supply. Switch the controller off and try
the following troubleshooting steps:

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Make sure that the controller is plugged into a live power outlet.

Verify that the power plug is securely connected in the power connector at
the back of the controller.

Verify that the voltage indicator is correctly selected for your local power.
See Installing the Controller Fuse Drawer on page 4-4.

Unplug the controller and check the AC fuses. See Inspecting AC Fuses
on page 8-3.

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Joint N Is Limp

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If you cannot move the arm because a joint is limp, you need to unlimp the
affected joint.

Unlimp all joints by entering the command nolimp at the ash prompt.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Troubleshooting

91

Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting Common Problems

Home Light Does Not Come On

If the Home light does not come on when you home the arm, either the arm
cannot be homed or the robot system cannot find the calibration file.
To verify that the arm is homing
1
Make sure that all joints are in the correct position for homing (see
Autohoming or Homing the Arm on page 5-8) and that each axis reports
on the terminal screen that it has homed without error.
2

If the arm is not homing correctly, try the following steps:

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Shut down the controller. Wait 30 seconds, reboot, and try homing
manually again.

Without homing the arm, use joint commands to move each joint
through the full range of motion. If a joint is not moving normally, you
must resolve the problem with the joint before you can home the arm.

Try manually homing the arm one joint at a time to determine which
joint is causing the problem. For example, by entering the ash
command:
test> home 1
you can home just joint 1.

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To restore the calibration file

1
Connect your development computer to the Console port.
2

Using the Robcomm3 file transfer utility, transfer the file robot.cal from
the calibration disk to the /conf directory on the controller.
Note:

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The calibration disk is a 3.5 inch floppy disk shipped with your
robot system. If you have lost the calibration disk, contact the
Customer Support Group for assistance.

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Shut Down and reboot the controller.

Home the arm manually, as described in Autohoming or Homing the

Arm on page 5-8.

Unpredictable Joint Motion or Robot Runaway

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If the arm moves suddenly at high speeds, the amplifiers may no longer be
receiving feedback from the arm, indicating a problem with the feedback cable
or with the amplifiers or encoders.

To inspect the feedback cable

1
Inspect the feedback cable for damage. Do not use a damaged cable.
Note:

Replacement cables are available from CRS.

Disconnect the cable and inspect the connectors to ensure that they are
clean and free of corrosion. Make sure that all pins are straight and in
good condition.

If the cable and connectors are in good condition, plug the cable back in.
Make certain that the locking ring clicks firmly into place over each
connection. See Connecting the Umbilical Cables on page 4-6.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting Common Problems

Arm Power Is Intermittent

If arm power is intermittent, there may be a connection problem with the
motor power cable.
Warning! High Voltage Risk. Do not use a damaged motor power cable. The
motor power cable carries high voltages. A damaged cable presents a serious
risk of electric shock.
To inspect the motor power cable
1
Shut down and turn off the controller.
2

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Visually inspect the cable for damage. Do not use a damaged cable.
Note:

Replacement cables are available from CRS.

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Disconnect the cable and inspect the connectors to ensure that they are
clean and free of corrosion.

If the cable and connectors are in good condition, plug the cable back in.
Make certain that the locking ring clicks firmly into place over each
connection. See Connecting the Umbilical Cables on page 4-6.

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Arm Power Cannot Be Turned On

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If arm power does not come on when the Arm Power button is pressed, try the
following troubleshooting steps:

Make sure that the E-Stop circuit is closed.

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Verify that all E-Stop buttons and devices have been reset. You cannot
turn on arm power while an E-Stop is triggered.

Verify that the teach pendant or its dummy plug is plugged into the
Pendant port on the front of the controller.

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Verify that the SYSIO port at the back of the controller is terminated
with a dummy plug or a correctly wired SYSIO device.

Check the fuses and circuit breakers.

Re-enable the Arm Power button (see the procedure below).

Shut down and reboot the controller.

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Re-Enabling the Arm Power Button

The ash command armpower can be used to disable or enable the Arm Power
button. If the button has been disabled, you cannot apply arm power until it
is re-enabled.
To allow arm power
At the ash prompt, enter the command:
test> armpower on
The Arm Power button on the controller is enabled and can be used to power
the arm.
Note:

Shutting down and rebooting the controller also re-enables the Arm
Power button.

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Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting Common Problems

Pneumatic Tool Malfunction

If your CataLyst-3 is fitted for the air option and the pneumatic tool is not
functioning normally, check the following:

Verify that the air line on the wrist is properly connected. See Pneumatic
Connector on page 7-3.

Verify that the pneumatic port is activated. See Enabling Pneumatic

Control on page 7-3.

Ensure that the air intake line is properly connected at the base of the
arm. See Connecting a Pneumatic Tool on page 7-4.

Check the air supply lines for leaks or pinching.

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Controller Always Boots in Diagnostic Mode

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If the controller always boots in diagnostic mode after a shutdown, try the
following:
1

In diagnostic mode, enter the command:

: set boot /kernel

Initiate the boot sequence by entering the command:

: boot

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The controller will begin cycling through the normal bootup sequence.
3

Shut down and reboot the controller. The controller should resume
booting normally.

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ActiveRobot Terminal Locks Up

If you have opened a terminal window on the development computer but
cannot issue any robot system commands, try the following steps:

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Make sure that the development computer is functioning normally:

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Try moving the terminal window around the screen. If you cannot
move the window, shut down and restart ActiveRobot terminal.
Try pressing the Num Lock key on your keyboard. The Num Lock light
on the keyboard should turn on and off. If the Num Lock light does
not respond, reboot the computer.

If you are using a teach pendant, check to see whether the Teach Pendant
has point of control. If the pendant has control, transfer point of control
back to the development computer.

A background process on the controller may have point of control. To

return point of control to the Console port, press Ctrl+E.

Verify that the development computer is securely connected to the

Console port via a straight-through RS-232 cable.

Make sure that you have correctly configured the serial port connection.
See Connecting the Development Computer on page 4-7.

With the terminal window open, try shutting down and rebooting the
controller.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Commands

ActiveRobot Communication Error

If you see the message Communication error in the terminal window, or
garbage text appears on screen, you may have the baud rate set incorrectly for
the Console port. Make sure that you have correctly configured the serial port
connection, as described in Connecting the Development Computer on
page 4-7.

Diagnostic Commands

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If you have a development computer connected to your robot system, you can
use diagnostic commands to help troubleshoot problems.

Verifying Encoder Feedback

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You can also test feedback from the encoders to ensure that the arm position
is being relayed properly.
Warning! Make sure that arm power is off before testing encoder feedback.
Damage to the arm or cable could cause sudden movement if arm power is on.
To test encoder feedback

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Remove arm power by pressing an E-Stop button. The LED on the Arm
Power button should now be off.

From ash, enter the command w1 to display the position of each encoder.
If your arm is in the ready position, the motor pulse count display will
look something like this:
-1

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+18001

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+1

Note:

A variation of a few motor pulses is normal.

Note:

To return to the ash prompt, press Ctrl+E.

Starting with joint 1, manually push against each joint and observe the
display in the terminal window. The number of counts should change in
response to the movement.

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Determining System Uptime

You can find out how long the system has been in use with the odometer
command.
To determine uptime
At the ash prompt, enter the command:
test> odometer
The total number of hours in use since the controller firmware was installed
is displayed in the terminal window.
Note:

The odometer resets to zero when you re-install firmware.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Troubleshooting

95

Troubleshooting: Contacting the Customer Support Group

Determining Version Numbers For Your System

When troubleshooting, you may need to determine the version of CROS and
the motion control engine used by your robot system.
To obtain the kinematics version
At the ash prompt, enter the command robotver to return the version of
the kinematics engine used by your system.

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To obtain the CROS version

At the ash prompt, enter the command crosver to return the version of
CROS used by your system.

These version numbers can sometimes help the Customer Support Group to
identify the cause of a problem with your robot system.

Contacting the Customer Support Group

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Before contacting CRS, make sure that you can provide a clear description of
the problem. The following information will help the Customer Support Group
to diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently:

Serial numbers for the arm and controller (located on the back panel of
the controller and at the base of the arm).

Whether the arm is part of a POLARA laboratory system.

A brief description of the operating environment, the type of robot

application and the duty cycle involved.

Any errors or warning messages observed.

A description of the bootup screen information.

CROS and Kinematics version numbers for the controller:

For controller version numbers, see Determining Version Numbers

For Your System on page 9-6.

The ActiveRobot.dll version number, shown on the General tab in the

ActiveRobot Configuration utility.

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Steps necessary to reproduce the problem and the circumstances

surrounding the failure.

Once you have gathered all of the relevant information, contact the Customer
Support Group by telephone, fax, or e-mail.

Telephone
1-905-332-2000 (voice)
1-800-365-7587 (voice: toll free in Canada and United States)
Fax
1-905-332-1114 (facsimile)
E-Mail
Customer Support: [email protected]

96

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Troubleshooting

APPENDIX A

Installing New Firmware

Under certain circumstances, you may need to re-install CROS or install a

new version of CROS on the controller. This document contains instructions
for backing up controller files and installing new firmware with the CROS
Firmware Download Utility.
Caution! Files on the controller may be destroyed by the firmware
installation process. Always back up controller files before updating firmware.

Backing up Controller Files

When new firmware is installed, all files on the controller are erased. Before
proceeding, make sure that your application and configuration files are
backed up to a safe location on the development computer.
To back up application and configuration files
1
Connect a development computer to your robot system.
2

Using the file transfer utility in Robcomm, transfer all files in the /app
and /conf directories from the controller to the development computer.

Using the Firmware Download Utility

The Firmware Download Utility is automatically installed when you install
CROS on the development computer.
To download CROS onto the controller
1
On the development computer, start the CROS-500C Firmware Download
Utility. The download utility is located in the CRS Robotics folder under
Program Files on your Windows Start Menu.
Note:

If you dont see the download utility on your Start Menu, you can
click Find and select Files or Folders to search for download.exe.
Double-click the file to start the download utility.

The download utility opens the following configuration screen:

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installing New Firmware

A1

Installing New Firmware:

Verify that the settings are correct for your robot system.
Setting

Required Value

CommPort

The number of the development computer COM port that is

connected to the robot system.

Baud Rate

The baud rate of the controller Console port. The factory default
setting for the Console port on a C500C is 57600 bps.

Path of Flash File

The name and location of the file flash.img on the development

computer. You can press the ... button to search for the file yourself.

Path of MCE File

The name and location of the file mcecat3.img on the development

computer. You can press the ... button to search for the file yourself.

Path of Remote

The name and location of the file remote.exe on the development

computer. You can press the ... button to search for the file yourself.

When the settings are correct, click Download in the Firmware Download
window. The download utility then prompts you to restart the controller in
Diagnostic mode.
3

Restart the controller in Diagnostic mode:

a

Shut down the controller by entering the command shutdown now.

Switch off controller power.

While holding down the F1, F2, and Pause/Continue buttons, switch
on controller power.

The controller boots into Diagnostic Mode. Verify that the message
Diagnostic Mode
is displayed on the controller LCD screen.

4.

On the development computer, click OK to start the download.

Rebuilding the File System on the Controller

For most versions of CROS, you need to completely rebuild the file system
once the download is complete.
Note:

See the release notes for your version of CROS to determine whether
this step is required.

To rebuild the file system

Switch off controller power.

1
2

While holding down the F2 and Home buttons, switch on controller power.

The controller LCD displays the message Loading new MFS from Flash
while the file system is being rebuilt. When the process is complete, the
controller continues with its normal bootup sequence.

Using the Robcomm3 file transfer utility, transfer your backup copies of
the files from the /app directory and the files /conf/robot.cal,
/conf/robot.cfg, /conf/rc, /conf/simsockd.cfg, and /conf/startup.sh (if
applicable) back onto the controller.

Shut down and reboot the controller.

Re-compile and test all application files on the controller.

A2

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Installing New Firmware

APPENDIX B

GPIO Termination Block Option

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A GPIO termination block is available as an optional component for CRS robot

systems. It provides easier access to GPIO connections by extending the pins
in the GPIO port to external screw terminals.

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The mounting rail bracket on the underside of the GPIO block fits all standard
DIN EN rails.
insert
ribbon cable
here

insert
DIN rail
here
screw
terminals

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clip

clip

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Installing the GPIO block

1
Mount a DIN rail outside the arms work space, near the back of the
controller.

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Note:

Snap the GPIO termination block onto the rail.

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3

The ribbon cable is 152 cm [5 ft.] in length. Mount the rail close
enough to the controller to ensure that the cable is not under
strain.

With the controller shut down and powered off, connect the ribbon cable
between the controller and the GPIO block:
a

Connect the male DD-50 ribbon connector to the GPIO port at the
back of the controller.

Connect the box header end of the ribbon cable to the connector on
the GPIO termination block.

Provide power for the GPIO circuit, as described in Powering the GPIO
Circuit on page 7-15.

Referring to Pinouts for the GPIO Port on page 7-11, and Wiring
Schematic For the GPIO Connector on page 7-14, connect your devices
to the GPIO block terminals.
Note:

The pin numbers in Table 7-7 on page 7-12 correspond to the

screw terminal numbers printed on the GPIO terminal block.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: GPIO Termination Block Option

B1

GPIO Termination Block Option:

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B2

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: GPIO Termination Block Option

Glossary

absolute encoder

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Precision device for converting the rotation of a motor shaft into a digital
signal. Absolute encoders (used in the F3 arm) record the exact position of
the motor shaft as well as the number of turns.
See: incremental encoder.
application shell (ash)

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Command-line application development environment under CROS. The

application shell provides an integrated environment for developing,
compiling, and running robot applications on the controller
See: Application Shell Guide on the documentation CD.
arm

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An articulated, mechanical manipulator.

articulated robot

Robotic arm consisting of rigid links connected by rotary joints. This type of
robot most closely resembles a human arm.
ash

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See: application shell.

autohoming

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Procedure which returns the arm to a homed state using positional data
stored in a calibration file (poweroff.cal) on the controller. Autohoming is
completely automated and generally much faster than manually homing the
arm.
See: homing

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awareness barrier

Device that warns a person of a hazard by physical and visual means.

awareness signal

Device that warns a person of a hazard by audible or visible means.

axis

1. Reference line of a coordinate system.

2. A line which passes through any of an arms joints about which a link or
similar section rotates.
beacon

Awareness signal that indicates a condition or hazard. The beacon on the

arm flashes amber when the arm is powered.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Glossary

G-1

Glossary:

collision

Unscheduled physical contact between the arm and an object.

controller

Device that controls and powers the arm.

country kit

Kit used to customize the C500C controller for local AC power. It consists of
a power cord, voltage module, and fuses.
CRS Robotics Robot Operating System (CROS)

Operating system on the C500C controller.

See: CROS and System Shell Guide on the documentation CD.
development computer

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Personal computer used to create robot applications and execute controller

commands in terminal mode. The development computer is connected to the
Console port on the controller,
diagnostic mode

D
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N

Controller mode for low-level diagnostic operations.

emergency stop (E-Stop)

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Switch connected to the controller E-Stop circuit that removes arm power
and halts robot motion when triggered. Once triggered, it must be manually
reset.

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end effector, end-of-arm tool

Work-performing device attached to the tool flange, such as a gripper,

dispenser, buffing wheel, or spray head.
firmware

Programming stored in non-volatile memory on the controller, consisting of

the diagnostic monitor and the operating system (CROS).

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force sensor kit

Optional end-of-arm device that enables the robot system to sense forces
and torques.
See: Force Sensor Guide on the documentation CD.

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General Purpose Input Output (GPIO)

The GPIO port on the back of the controller provides inputs and outputs for
connecting external hardware devices to the robot system.
gripper

End effector designed to grasp or hold objects.

hardstop

Hardware safety device fastened at a fixed position that determines the

absolute ends of movement of a joint or track. A hardstop restricts the
workspace and provides some safety in the case of robot runaway.

G-2

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Glossary

Glossary:

harmonic drive

A type of precision mechanical transmission. This device joins a motor and a

joint providing smooth motion, high torque, and low backlash.
homing

Procedure by which the motion control engine exactly locates the position of
each of the arms axes.
I/O

Input/output.
incremental encoder

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Precision device for converting the rotation of a motor shaft into a digital
signal. Relative encoders (used in the CataLyst, A255 and A465 arms) record
the relative angular displacement of the motor shaft.
See: absolute encoder.
interlock

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In robot systems, a device that automatically prevents robot use under

dangerous conditions. For example, a door contact switch can be interlocked
with the arm power cicuit to prevent robot use when the door is open.
joint

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Location where two links join, usually consisting of a motor and drive.
See: link.
limping

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A method of moving the arm by disengaging the servos which normally hold
the joints in place. A limped joint can be moved by hand.
link

Rigid part of a robot arm between two neighboring joints.

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live-man switch

3-position enabling switch on the teach pendant, used to ensure safety while
moving the arm in teach mode.
maximum space

See: work space.

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motion control engine (MCE)

Controller processor responsible for calculating robot trajectories.

nominal payload

The amount of weight carried by the robot at maximum speed while

maintaining rated precision. This rating is highly dependent on the size and
shape of the payload.
operator

Person who uses the robot to perform work. This can include loading the
workcell, running the robot, monitoring the running, and responding to any
problems, but does not include designing the workcell or programming the
robot.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Glossary

G-3

Glossary:

payload

Amount of weight carried by the arm and/or the amount of force the arm
can exert on an object.
pneumatic tool

Tool actuated by the flow of pressurized air.

range of motion

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Extent of travel of a link or of an arm. This is dependent on the limits of

rotational motion of the joints and the lengths of the links.
RAPL-3

Robot Automation Programming Language. A high-level, block-structured,

compiled language, similar to C, introduced in 1997. RAPL-3, and its
predecessor, RAPL-II, are proprietary languages used to program CRS
robots.

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See: RAPL-3 Language Reference Guide on the documentation CD.

RAPL-II

A line-structured, interpreted language, similar to BASIC, introduced in

1993.
reach

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Maximum distance to which the arm can extend the tool flange or gripper
plus the length of the workpiece. Reach defines the work space of the arm.
repeatability

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Ability of the robot to repeat the same motion or position a tool at the same
position when presented with the same control signals (over repeated cycles).
Also, the cycle-to-cycle error of the robot system when trying to perform a
specific task.
resolution

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Smallest increment of motion or angular displacement that can be detected

or controlled.
Robcomm3

Proprietary application development environment that runs under Microsoft

Windows. Robcomm3 is used for editing and compiling RAPL-3 programs,
transferring files between the computer and the controller, and
communicating with the controller in terminal mode.

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See: Robcomm3 Guide on the documentation CD.

robot calibration file (robot.cal)

File that contains calibration information for your robot system. The
robot.cal file must be present in the /conf directory on the controller in order
to use the robot system.

G-4

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Glossary

Glossary:

robot configuration file (robot.cfg)

File which contains the configuration information for your robot system.
The following parameters are stored in /conf/robot.cfg: whether or not the
system has a track, positive and negative track travel limits, units of
measurement (metric or English), the number of axes for the robot system,
the tool transform, base offset, and gripper type, and the force enable
password for the force sensor.
robot system

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System comprised of an arm, a controller, and an end effector. The robot

system may also include the teach pendant and other connected devices in
the workcell.
robot

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Controlled, reprogrammable, multi-purpose, manipulative machine with

several degrees of freedom, which may be either fixed in place or mobile for
use in automatic applications.
safeguard

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Barrier, device, or procedure designed to protect persons from a hazardous

point or area.
servo control

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Control exercised over the position of a motor shaft via electronic feedback.
servo-actuated device

Device controlled by applying or removing power based on electronic

feedback.

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System Input/Output (SYSIO)

The SYSIO port on the back of the controller provides inputs and outputs for
connecting safety devices and creating a remote front panel.

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system integrator

Person or company who designs, constructs, and installs a robot system.

teach pendant

Hand-held control unit connected to the controller. The teach pendant is

used to move the robot, teach locations, and run robot programs.

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tensioner

Device used to maintain a constant tension for the drive chains.

tool center point (TCP)

The centre of the tool coordinate system. If no tool transform is set, the tool
center point corresponds to the center of the tool flange.
tool transform

Offset value applied to the tool frame of reference. By default, the origin of
the tool frame of reference is located at the centre of the surface of the tool
flange. By applying a tool transform, you center the tool frame of reference at
another point such as the tip of an end-of-arm tool.

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Glossary

G-5

Glossary:

track

Linear axis along which the entire arm can be moved under program control.
umbilical cable

Cable that connects the controller and the arm.

work space

Volume of space that can be swept by all robot parts plus the space that can
be swept by the end effector and the workpiece.
workcell

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A station composed of the arm, the apparatus integrated with the arm
(material handling, reagents, sensors, etc.), and the arm workspace.
workpiece

Object held by an end-effector.

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Glossary

Index

/diag/f3pack 8-5
/diag/setup 5-4
/poweroff.cal 6-3

A
AC input voltage 2-2, 4-4
acceleration 2-3
accident prevention 3-7
ActiveRobot configuration utility 5-9
air connector 7-3
air filter 8-1
air intake 7-4
analog input 2-1, 7-11
application design 3-1, 3-3, 3-5, 8-2
arm 1-2, 2-1
intermittent power 9-3
lifting 4-3
mounting 4-1, 4-3
shipping 8-5
using with a different controller 3-4, 5-3
arm power 5-5, 6-2
intermittent 9-3
stays off 9-3
Arm Power button 7-20
armpower 9-3

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backing up files A-1

baud rate 4-7, 7-22, 9-4, 9-5
beacon light 3-2, 7-20
brakes 2-1, 3-2, 3-4

C500C, see controller

cables 8-1
calibration 5-3, 9-2
chain lubrication 8-2
circuit breakers 8-2
cleaning 8-1

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communication error 9-5

configuration file 5-4
connectors 1-3, 4-6, 7-1
console 4-7
console, troubleshooting 9-4, 9-5
Continue button 6-2
controller 1-3, 2-1
backing up files A-1
diagnostic mode 7-23, 9-4
firmware upgrade A-1
lifting 4-3
lockout 3-9
mounting 4-5
transferring control 6-2
using with a different arm 3-4, 5-3
country kit 4-4
CROS 6-3, 7-23, 9-6, A-1
crosver 9-6
Ctrl+E 9-4
customer support 9-6

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de-rating curves 2-3

designated use 3-1
development computer 1-3, 4-7, 5-3, 5-7, 7-22, 9-4,
9-5, A-1
diagnostic commands 9-5
diagnostic mode 7-23, 9-4, A-2
dummy plug 4-7
duty cycle 8-2

E
electrical noise 2-2
electromagnetic interference 2-2
emergency stop, see E-Stop
encoders 5-5
feedback 9-5
resolution 2-1
end effectors 4-8
end-of-arm tools 4-8
E-Stop 1-4, 3-2, 4-10, 7-16, 7-20, 8-1, 9-3
testing 5-6

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Index

I-1

Index:

lockout 7-16
lockout procedure 3-9
lubricant 8-2
lubricant, leakage 8-1

expansion amplifier 7-9

eyebolt 4-3

F
fault detection 3-2
feedback connector 7-7
file system, rebuilding A-2
firmware download utility A-1
flex covers 8-1
force control 2-6
front panel 1-3, 2-1, 7-16
display blank 9-1
pushbutton sequences 1-3, 6-3, A-2
replicating 3-4, 7-16, 7-21
fuses 4-4, 8-2, 8-3, 9-3

M
maintenance 2-3, 5-11, 8-1, 8-2
measurement units 5-4
motor power connector 7-6
mounting 4-3, 4-5
mounting platform 4-1

G
garbage text 9-5
gear ratios 2-3
GPIO 2-6, 7-11, B-1

H
hardstops 3-2
hazards 3-4
home light doesnt turn on 9-2
humidity 2-2

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ingress protection 2-1

input/output devices 2-1, 7-11, 7-16, B-1
inspection 5-2, 8-1
installation 4-1
inverted mounting 4-1
isolated circuits 7-11, 7-16

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joint specifications 2-3

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odometer 9-5
operating environment 2-2
options 2-6

L
life expectancy 2-3, 8-2, 9-5
lifting 4-3
limp 9-1
live-man 4-10
testing 5-6

I-2

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packing 8-5
Pause/Continue button 6-2
payload 2-1, 2-3
pendant 3-2, 4-7
pinch points 3-4
pinouts 7-2, 7-3, 7-5, 7-6, 7-7, 7-9, 7-11, 7-16
plate-leveling mechanism 4-3
pneumatic gripper 2-6
pneumatic tools 3-4, 7-3, 7-4
troubleshooting 9-4
point of control 3-2, 6-2, 7-16
hazards 3-4
power 2-2, 4-4, 6-1, 7-1
external devices 7-15, 7-21
shutting off 6-3
power up 5-3, 6-1
processor 2-1

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R
rack mounting 4-5
reach 2-1, 3-5
relays 2-1, 7-16
repeatability 2-1
resolution 2-1
Robcomm3 doesnt respond 9-4
robot calibration 5-3
robot system 1-1
robot.cal 5-3, 9-2
robot.cfg 5-4

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Index

Index:

robotver 9-6
routine use 6-1

S
safeguarding 3-3, 3-5
safety 1-4, 3-1, 4-10, 8-1
system features 3-2
serial ports 4-7, 7-22
servo gripper 2-6
servo gripper connector 7-2
shipping 8-5
shutdown 6-3
SIO1 7-22
SIO2 7-22
solenoid valve 7-3
specifications 2-1
speed 2-1, 2-3, 3-2
support 9-6
SYSIO 4-10, 7-16, 9-3
SYSIO dummy plug 4-7
system components 1-1
system options 2-6

T
technical data 2-1
temperature 2-2
terminal, default settings 9-5
tool flange 2-1, 4-8
torque 2-3
track 2-6
troubleshooting 9-1, 9-6

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w1 9-5
weight
arm 2-1
controller 2-1
wiring, custom 7-1
work space 3-5
workcell safety 3-3
wrist connector 7-2, 7-3, 7-5

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umbilical cable 3-4, 4-6

inspecting 9-3
umbilical cable connector 7-6
units 5-4
upright mounting 4-1
uptime 9-5
user I/O connector 7-5

V
version numbers 9-6
vibration 2-2
voltage selector 4-4

CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Index

I-3

Index:

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I-4

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CataLyst-3 Robot System User Guide: Index