For use in mechanical and plant engineering the Baden-based manufacturer Sick has developed a digital interface including all corresponding components. The connection between the controller and servo motor thus no longer requires two cables, but only one, hybrid cable. This takes up less space and puts less weight on the scales – an aspect which is reflected in a lower inertia, especially in highly dynamic applications. In addition, the time required for installation is halved. Usage of the system also eliminates the need for a motor feedback connector – which is an important consideration for small server motor applications.

The digital interface called Hiperface DSL complies with the well-known RS485 standard with a transfer rate of 9.375 MBaud. The data transfer is synchronous to the controller clock, which can be up to 12.1 μs short. The cable length between speed controller and feedback system can be up to 100 m. Apart from Sick itself, a number of manufacturers have already implemented the Hiperface DSL interface, most recently the sensor specialist Baumer.