End-of-life Product
For VXM’s replacement VXC visit Velmex Controls
Velmex offers several VXM Stepper Motor Controllers to govern the performance of the motors available for Velmex products. They make precise positioning of the slides, stages and tables simpler and more effective.
Velmex VXM™ Controllers Control Motion On Multiple Axis
Velmex VXM Controller Systems are components that drive motorized Velmex products including UniSlides®, BiSlides®, XSlides™ and Velmex Rotary Tables. The VXM’s advance design delivers high, consistent performance and insures they are very efficient, reliable and easy to program.
Velmex pioneered the development of a microprocessor-based indexer/driver controlling one, up to four axes in a single system. This 2-phase, unipolar stepper motor controller has the capability to drive and control precise movements, multi-axis and velocity. Velmex’s VXM Controller System is capable of controlling to 4 motors, 1 motor at a time. Also two motors can be controlled simultaneously for coordinated motion.
Velmex VXM Systems can be used with a PC, Tablet, Laptop or PLC or can run standalone. Velmex also offers a simple, variable speed and teachable two-move version of the popular VXM™ series of step motor controller systems.
See Limits for information on the use of limit switches.
Velmex VXM™ Controller Features
The VXM Controller uses a half-step switching sequence to drive the motor. It has a programmed look-up that maximizes the motor torque. It constantly is optimizing the efficiency of the motor and therefore, doesn’t lose torque. This delivers higher resolution and lowers the noise and susceptibility to motor resonance.
Velmex VXM Systems enable the step motor to operate more efficiently by utilizing pulse width modulation current control, with an automatic motor power-down for lower power consumption. The system’s microprocessor is in total control of the voltage level on each phase of the motor drive which eliminates the noise interference.
VXM™ Motor Controller Configurations
VXM-1 (standard) – A single-axis programmable control and driver for one motor.
VXM-2 – Controller for two motors (2 axes), one at a time.
VXM-3 – Controller System for three motors (3 axes), one at a time or one motor from each box simultaneously.
VXM-4 – Controller System for four motors (4 axes), one at a time or one motor from each box simultaneously.
VXM1-1 – Controller System for two motors, one at a time or simultaneous motion of 2 axes.
VXM-“#”+ “R” – Rack mounted versions of above
Above versions also available with a brake – useful in systems where you are trying to control a vertical axis.
VXM-1J – Enhanced jog and auto-reverse single motor controller – 1 axis only for directing motion between two points. Programmable front panel – no computer needed. Speed is adjusted with a potentiometer.
For obsolete Controllers and Readouts see the Controls Archive
VXM™ Specifications
| Dimensions | |||
| Weight (with power supply) | |||
| VXM-1 |  | 3.6 lbs. | (1.63 kg.) |
| VXM-2 |  | 3.9 lbs. | (1.77 kg.) |
| VXM-3 |  | 7.5 lbs. | (3.4 kg.) |
| VXM-4 |  | 7.8 lbs. | (3.54 kg.) |
| VXM1-1 |  | 7.2 lbs. | (3.27 kg.) |
| VXM-1 VXM-2 | Height X Width X Length | 3.52" X 4.37" X 6.89" | (89.4 mm X 111 mm X 175 mm) |
| VXM-3 VXM-4, VXM1-1 | Height X Width X Length | 3.52" X 8.74" X 6.89" | (89.4 mm X 222 mm X 175 mm) |
| Electrical Requirements | |||
| AC Power Supply | 100-240VAC 2A 50-60Hz | UL, CE, CSA, and TUV compliant | |
| VXM Controller Power | 24VDC 2.5A | ||
| Operating Temperature | 35 - 95 F (2 - 35 C) | ||
| Relative Humidity | 10% - 90% (non-condensing) | ||
| Motor Compatibility | NEMA 17 to NEMA 34 | Runs 6 or 8 lead permanent magnet step motors rated from 0.4 to 4.7 amps | |
| Function | |||
| VXM-1 | | 1 motor version | |
| VXM-2 | | 2 motor version; one motor operates at a time | |
| VXM-3 | | 3 motor version; one motor, individually, operates at a time or one motor from each box simultaneously. | |
| VXM-4 | | 4 motor version; one motor, individually, operates at a time or one motor from each box simultaneously. | |
| VXM-1-1 | | 2 motor version, 2 motors can be operated simultaneously - one from each box - or one motor, individually, can be operated at a time. | |
| Software | COSMOS™ (Computer Optimized Step Motor Operating System) | ||
| Number of axis | up to 4 | ||
| Motor Compatibility | Size Nema 17 to size Nema 34 (1.2 to 4.7 amp) - Unipolar | ||
| Steps per revolution | 400 with 1.8° (200 step) motor, | 800 with .9° (400 step) motor | |
| Program Storage | 5 programs | ||
| Interface | RS-232 (serial port) | ||
| Auxiliary inputs/outputs | 4 in/2 out | ||
| Speed Range (pulses/sec) | 1 to 6000 | ||
| Default Baud Rate | 9600 | ||
| Maximum Baud Rate | 38,400 | ||
| Program language | ASCII Characters | Labview, Matlab, Visual Studio, Powerbasic, Pascal, Perl, Python | |
| Programmable or Stand alone operation | Yes | ||
VXM-1J Specifications
| Dimensions | |||
| Weight (with power supply) | |||
| VXM-1J |  | 3.6 lbs. | (1.63 kg.) |
Height X Width X Length | 3.52" X 4.37" X 6.89" | (89.4 mm X 111 mm X 175 mm) | |
| Electrical Requirements | |||
| AC Power Supply | 100-240VAC 2A 50-60Hz | UL, CE, CSA, and TUV compliant | |
| VXM Controller Power | 24VDC 2.5A | ||
| Operating Temperature | 35 - 95 F (2 - 35 C) | ||
| Relative Humidity | 10% - 90% (non-condensing) | ||
| Function | |||
| Number of axis | 1 | Simple jog and move, no computer connection | |
| Motor Compatibility | Size Nema 17 to size Nema 34 (1.2 to 4.7 amp) - Unipolar | ||
| Steps per revolution | 400 with 1.8° (200 step) motor, | 800 with .9° (400 step) motor | |
| Auxiliary inputs/outputs | 4 in/2 out | ||
| Speed Range (pulses/sec) | 1 to 6000 | ||
VXM Controller (Shown with power supply)
VXM Serial Number
VXM Controllers have serial numbers which can be located on the back of the device.
VXM™ Controller Options/Accessories
There are a variety of options and accessories available that can be ordered in conjunction with Velmex VXM Controller Systems. They include:
Auxiliary I/O Breakout Module
The Breakout Module is a convenient method to interface to the VXC's auxiliary I/O.
Joysticks – Direct the VXM Controller with use of a joystick.
Digital Joystick – allows remote jog control of a one or two axis VXM controller.
Analog Joystick – derives speed (velocity) and direction from joystick position.
Heavy duty 2-axis joystick – controls two axes. For more robust commercial/industrial applications.
For more details see VXM Joysticks
Heavy Duty Remote Jog Station – The Jog Station remotely moves (jogs) a single axis VXM-1 or VXM-1J Controller via push buttons. It offers convenient one-hand operation.
For more details see VXM Joysticks
Foot pedal – used to direct the Controller to jog or run. Single-button (pedal) and dual-button (pedal) available to start/stop or jog/run.
Power Strip – Convenient power strip for plugging in multiple VROs and VXMs™.
I/O Splitter – The I/O Splitter allows both a joystick and the Auxiliary I/O Breakout Module to be connected to the VXM at the same time.
Thumb wheel – Thumb wheel program selector switch allows you to easily select and switch between programs loaded in the VXM. The thumb wheel allows you select between 4 programs.
Auxiliary I/O Breakout Module – The Breakout Module is a convenient method to interface to the VXMs auxiliary I/O.
For more details see VXM Interface Modules.
Relay Modules – Relay modules with 2 or 4 outputs function as a dry contact switch. AC or DC versions also available.
For more details see VXM Interface Modules.
Speed Pot – To control speed at the VXM.
Communication Cable – The communication cable (USB to RS232) allows the VXM Controller to communicate with the computer. (10 ft. long) The cable provided by Velmex has LED indicators to assist with troubleshooting.
Bus Cable –To connect to VXM boxes together to control two motors at the same time.
Rack Mount Kit – Mounting kits for stacking and racking multiple VXM Controllers. Available for one or two boxes.
Cable Adapters – Obsolete motor and limit cables and various adapters are available to connect older Velmex products to current Velmex products.
Additional accessories include:
• Serial cables, coordination cables and other lengths of cables, along with cable extensions are available.
• Mounting Brackets and Plates to connect two VXM Controllers stacked or side by side.
For details on Limits which attach to the stages, visit the Limits page.
C.O.S.M.O.S.™ (Computer Optimized Stepper Motor Operating System)
Operating in conjunction with a Velmex VXM™ Motor Controller is C.O.S.M.O.S.™ (Computer Optimized Stepper Motor Operating System). It’s a software package with a simple-to-use interface that coordinates communication between the computer, the VXM Controller and ultimately the stepper motor. It makes it easy to set-up and program the VXM to control Velmex motorized positioning systems.
See Software for more information on COSMOS, along with computer notes, drivers and programming examples.
VXM™ Downloads
| Software | Description | Version | Downloads |
|---|---|---|---|
| COSMOS | Computer Optimized Stepper Motor Operating System without the installer | 3.1.6 |  |
| Serial Port Diagnostics | Diagnostics for driver issues | 3.1.0 | |
| Backwards 3 Patch | Patch if COSMOS shows Motors 1,3,4 instead of 1,2,3 | - | |
| Type | Operating System | File Name | Description | Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LINK | Universal | .ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm | Web page with access to the cable drivers for various operating systems so that the application software can access the USB as a standard COM port. |  |
1.) Basic understanding of the example wanted below is necessary.
2.) "View" indicates how to communicate with the port instead of using the driver
| Language | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|
| PowerBasic | Basic Controller codes to test movement | | - |
| Labview | Basic Controller codes to test movement | | - |
| Visual Basic 6 | Basic Controller codes to test movement | | - |
| Visual C 6 | Basic Controller codes to test movement | | - |
| VB.NET | Basic Controller codes to test movement | | - |
| C# | Basic Controller codes to test movement | | - |
| Visual C.Net | Basic Controller codes to test movement | | - |
| Matlab | Basic Controller codes to test movement | | - |
1.) Basic understanding of the example wanted below is necessary.
2.) "View" indicates how to communicate with the port instead of using the driver
| Language | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labview | Labview Simple Serial | | - |
| Visual Studio | Communication with Serial Port | - |  |
| Matlab | Communication with Serial Port | - | |
| File Type | File Name | Description | Image | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZIP | exp101_circle.zip | Circle example |  | | - |
| ZIP | exp102_rectangle_with_chamfers.zip | Rectangle with chamfers example |  | | - |
| ZIP | exp103_rectangle_with_radi.zip | Rectangle with radi example |  | | - |
| ZIP | exp104_sinusoid.zip | Sinusoid example |  | | - |
| ZIP | exp105_triangle.zip | Triangle example |  | | - |
| File Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZIP | AutoReverse.zip | Auto Reverse between 2 points on a linear system, Auto Reverse with a potentionmeter | | - |
| ZIP | 2D Raster Scan.zip | 2 Different Raster Scans; Simple 2D Raster Scan with Wait for G; Simple Raster Scan | | - |
| ZIP | 3D Raster Scan.zip | 3 dimensional raster scan - cube | | - |
| ZIP | Shapes.zip | txt files for circle; equilateral triangle, rectangle, sinusodial | | - |
| ZIP | Simultaneous Motion.zip | txt files for moving two motors at the same time | | - |
| ZIP | Users Manual Interact with I-O.zip | Scripts from the VXM Users Manual that interact with the I-O | | - |
| ZIP | Users Manual Interactive.zip | Interactive scripts from the VXM Users Manual | | - |
| ZIP | Users Manual Stand Alone.zip | Stand alone scripts from the VXM Users Manual | | - |
| File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|
| VXM Users Manual.pdf | Operating Manual: Specifications, features, function, programming details for the VXM Controller | | |
| VXM Specification Sheet.pdf | Overview: Specifications and feature for the VXM | | |
| VXM - Quick Start Rev D.pdf | Instructions: Set-up, connecting and configuring the VXM with a Velmex stage | | |
| VXM Full Command Summary.pdf | Instructions: Various C.O.S.M.O.S commands that program the VXM controller | | |
| Increments with VXM and Steppers.pdf | Tech Chart:- Increments that can be moved using various Velmex linear stages, the VXM Controller and step motors | | |
| Calculation Steps Direction Speed with VXM.pdf | Tech Chart -: Various calculations for determining speed, steps and direction using step motors and the VXM Controller | | |
| Linear Distance w Steppers Velmex Lead Screws.pdf | Tech Chart: - Linear distance of movement based on Step Motor Rate, Lead Screw pitch using VXM Step Motor Controller | | |
| Limit Switches.pdf | Overview: Limit Switches available for Velmex stages | | |
| VXM Rack Mount Assembly Procedure.pdf | Instructions: Assembly of Rack Mount accesory for VXM Controller | | |
For .STP files, you may need to right click on the download button and save the "target" or "link".
If you require a specific file format or cannot locate the drawing you require, please contact us.
| Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STP | VXM Control.stp | CAD Drawing for the VXM Controller | | - |
| STP | VXM Power Supply.stp | CAD Drawing for the power supply for the VXM | | - |
| DWG | vxm_outline_drawing.dwg | Drawing for the VXM Controller | | |
| SAT | vxm power supply.sat | Drawing for the power supply for the VXM | | - |
If you require a specific file format or cannot locate the drawing you require, please contact us.
| Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPG | bislide_limit_harness.jpg | Limit harness diagram for BiSlide |  | |
| JPG | magnetic_reed_switch.jpg | Wiring diagram for magnetic home switch |  | |
| JPG | motor_connections.jpg | Wiring diagram for the DC motor connections |  | |
| JPG | outboard_limits.jpg | Wiring diagram for outboard limits |  | |
| JPG | unislide_limits.jpg | Limit harness diagram for UniSlide |  | |
| vxm_oem_pcb_specificatons.pdf | PCB connection specifications for vxm | | | |
| Motor Wiring Diagram.pdf | Motor Wiring Diagram | | |
| Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application Note | an101.pdf | AppNote 101: Interfacing to a counter/totalizer for cycle recording/life testing | | |
| Application Note | an102.pdf | AppNote 102: Autoreverse and set speed with potentiometer | | |
| Application Note | an103.pdf | AppNote 103: Interfacing thumbwheel switch for selecting programs 0-3 | | |
| Application Note | an104.pdf | AppNote 104: Interfacing to a PLC and Advancing part stack example | | |
| Application Note | an105.pdf | AppNote 105: Edge following using the analog jog input | | |
| Application Note | an106.pdf | AppNote 106: Acceleration units and Start/Stop speeds | | |
| Application Note | an107.pdf | AppNote 107: Interface to Solid State Relay Modules | | |
| Application Note | an108.pdf | AppNote 108: Interface Analog Joystick to other devices | | |
| Application Note | an109.pdf | AppNote 109: Coil winding with a VXM-1-1, VXM-3, or VXM-4 | | |
| Errata Note | errata_associated_programs.pdf | Errata 101: with Circles and Arcs(versions 1.25, 1.26, 1.27, or 1.30 only) | | |
| Computer Note | cosmos_foreign_language.pdf | CompNote 101: Using COSMOS with "foreign language" | | |
| Computer Note | linux_com_protocol.pdf | CompNote 102: Communicating with VXM with Linux using "MiniCom" | | |
| Computer Note | change_baudrate.txt | CompNote 103: Procedure for changing communications baud rate | | |
VXM-1J™ Downloads
| Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VXM-1J Users Guide.pdf | Operating Manual: Specifications, features, functions for VXM-1J Controller | | |
| Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application Note | vxm_1j_motor_setting.pdf | 1J AppNote 101 - Motor Setting | | |
| Application Note | vxm_1j_auxiliary_connections.pdf | 1J AppNote 102 - Auxiliary Connections | | |
| Application Note | vxm_1j_clearing_memory.pdf | 1J AppNote 103 - Clearing Memory | | |
If you require a different format or cannot located the drawing you require, please contact us.
For additional information on obsolete Controllers and Readouts see the Controls Archive
Velmex VXM™ Controllers In Use
These are examples of Velmex products. If you wish a similar product, please contact us with your specific application specifications (travel distance, payload, hours per day in use, resolution, speed range, etc.). You can use the Request Assistance form.
The example displayed may be a custom configuration, designed to the customer’s specifications; and not offered as a standard product. Custom configurations could contain custom, externally-fabricated components.
Pictured in our gallery are examples of various controllers in use on Velmex UniSlides®, BiSlides®, XSlides™ and Rotary Tables. Product and accessory offering is subject to change and availability.
| Example Key Code | Meaning | Example Key Code | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Manually Operated | M | Motorized |
| S | Standard | C | Custom Configuration |
| B | BiSlide | U | UniSlide |
| X | XSlide | R | Rotary Tables |
| T | XY Tables | TT | Turntables |
| E | Elevating Tables | FS | Fun Stuff (Ingenious, Cool, or Just out of the ordinary applications) |
Single Axis Velmex Stages
Multiple-Axis Velmex Assemblies
Combination Assemblies
Working Images
Examples of other Velmex products can be found on the Examples page or in the Examples section for each product.
Many questions can be answered by reviewing the “Features”, “Model / Series”, “Specifications”, “Options / Accessories” and “Technical Documentation” sections for each product line. Additional FAQs about product comparisons, product construction, purchasing and shipping can be found on the company FAQ page.
Troubleshooting
First - always read the Users Manual.
Whenever you have an issue with the VXM Controller controlling the motor(s), check to be sure the system is configured correctly. The VXM needs to be set-up to recognize the specific motor and axis it is controlling. Install and run COSMOS™ Configurator Software to program the VXM to properly operate the connected motors.
If the VXM does not appear to be controlling the motors properly, run diagnostics. First run the Serial Port Diagnostics. This will indicate whether or not you are communicating with the VXM Controller. If you are not communicating with the Controller, the system may not be configured correctly or you may have an issue with the communications port. Check both.
If the Serial Port Diagnostics runs correctly, but you still have issues, then run the COSMOS Systems Diagnostics. This can help you and Velmex Support, should you contact us, determine what the issue is and how to resolve it.
Issues with Equipment
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Power (Green LED) light does not come on. | Power supply not connected or AC cord not attached. Power switch not on. Circuit breaker tripped (white center protruding from breaker.) |
| Controller not communicating with computer. | If when running diagnostics, the USB cable LEDs do not flash, you could have: a bad connection/cable, wrong USB driver, wrong component/cable. If you have a Velmex RS232 to USB cable, the LEDs will flash when any command, including the diagnostics is sent. |
| Motor makes noise but is not moving (Stalled). | VXM not configured for Motor, speed too high, broken wiring, or jammed mechanism/motor. |
| Motor is not making any noise and is not moving (no power to motor). | Limit switches not connected or set for wrong type switches. |
| Circuit breaker trips when power applied to VXM. | Voltage >28 volts or polarity reversed. |
| Circuit breaker trips while running motor for a short time. | Wrong motor selected. Shorted wiring. |
| Circuit breaker trips while running motor for a long time | Wrong motor setting. Shorted wiring. Controller overheating from lack of ventilation or ambient temperature too high. |
| Controller is too hot to touch. (It is normal for Controller and Motor do get very warm when running continuously.) | Wrong motor setting. Lack of ventilation or ambient temperature too high. NOTE: Motor should always be mounted for heat conduction. |
| Motor runs erratically (at lowest speeds goes either direction, and has low torque at mid speeds). | Broken wire to motor or broken connector pin. |
| Additional Toubleshooting for Controllers connected to a computer. (Would not apply for the VXM-1J standalone.) | |
| Motor always goes opposite direction. | Directions were inverted with the "setDM" command. Refer to the "getDM" and "setDM" command. |
| VXM resets itself and sends "EB" to the host. | A motor 3 or 4 command was sent to the VXM when there is not a second VXM connected to the VXM bus. |
| VXM continuously resets itself (flashes power light slowly) and sends "EB"s to the host. | A master VXM attempts communication with a slave that is off. |
| Power (Green LED) light flashes rapidly and continuously on power-up | Run, Stop, or a Jog input is pulled low. The VXM does not allow button Jog inputs to be activated at power up. (release button/input to recover.) |
| On-Line light flashing continuously (yellow LED). | RS-232 overrun error, host sent commands while VXM was busy sending requested data (power off/on to recover.) |
| Power and On-Line light flash rapidly and VXM sends "EM" to the host. | Program memory is full (send "K" to recover.) |
| Power and On-Line light flash rapidly and VXM sends "EL" to the host. | More than 10 nested Loop commands encountered per run (send "K" to recover.) |
| Power and On-Line light flash rapidly and VXM sends "EJ" to the host. | More than 4 nested "JMx"s encountered per run (send "K" to recover.) |
| Power and On-Line light flash rapidly and VXM sends "EC" to the host. | When "U9x" missing or motor not the same when continuous indexing (send "K" to recover.) |
Sound Indicators
The following are some sound bytes to help troubleshoot motor and controller operation.
| Description | Sound |
|---|---|
| The sound of a normal operating stepper motor: |  |
| The sound of an overloaded motor: | |
| The sound of a motor when acceleration is set too high: | |
| The sound of a motor when the speed is set too high: | |
| The sound of a motor with a broken wire: | |
Is it possible to control more than one axis with the VXM Controller?
Yes, VXM configurations can control up to 4 motors, 1 motor at a time. The VXM-4 System can handle 4 motors and consists of 2 linked VXM Boxes. Two motors can also be controlled simultaneously with the VXM1-1. Click on the "Specifications Tab" above for more details and specifications.
Is it necessary to connect the VXM Controller to a computer?
In order to program the VXM Controller for your specific application, it should be connected to a PC, Laptop, Tablet or PLC. Once downloaded with a program, it can operate without the computer connection. However, the VXM-1J Control has a simple jog and auto-reverse functioning and does not require a computer to program.
Will Velmex motorized stages work with other motors and controllers?
Yes, if you have your own motors and controllers, you can use them with Velmex motor-ready products. The VXM Controller, however, has been specifically designed to optimize stepper motor control. Its a very dependable and low cost solution for high precision positioning requirements. Velmex motorized stages, motors and the VXM Motor Controller come as a complete system, ready to plug in. Click on the "Specifications Tab" above for more details and specifications.
I have my motor and the VXM connected, why won't the motor move?
Has the VXM driver and the motor been configured? The VXM needs to be set-up to recognize the specific motor and axis it is controlling. If after installation and configuration, the VXM does not appear to be controlling the motors properly, follow the troubleshooting steps in the VXM Users Manual and run the System Diagnostics.
Does the stepper motor and/or VXM Controller give any indication it is not running properly?
Depending on the situation, the system may sound different than it does under normal operation. See "Troubleshooting above" for sound bytes to help troubleshoot motor and controller operation.
What is the default speed of the VXM controller?
The default speed of the VXM Controller is 2,000 steps per second.
I want to use an Arduino controller. Will it work?
It is not recommended. An Arduino cannot generate enough torque to allow the motor to operate within the normal speed ranges.
If you have questions about your specific application or want us to design a system using a Velmex VXM Controller, please complete the Request Assistance form or call Velmex to speak to one of our Application Engineers.
