Newport 855C Programmable Controller

The Newport 855C Programmable Controller is a microprocessor-based system for precise multi-axis positioning and motion control in laboratory and industrial automation environments. It simultaneously commands up to four Newport linear actuators or rotary stages through an 8-bit 6809 processor and 4 Kbytes RAM, executing stored programs of up to 300 instructions or real-time manual control. The system operates in four modes: EXECUTE for manual precision positioning, PROGRAM EDIT for instruction entry and modification, PROGRAM RUN for automatic command execution, and JOG for incremental repetitive motion. Communication occurs via standard RS-232C and IEEE-488 interfaces, compatible with remote computers and terminals. Encoder feedback accepts dual-output, 90° phase quadrature pulses at +12.5/−0.5 V levels with limit signal support. The controller outputs ±10 V velocity control signals at 12-bit resolution (4096 steps) with +15 VDC, 1.5 A power delivery per channel. An optional 855K handheld Keypad/Display provides convenient field programming and real-time control without external equipment. The 8-slot STD-Bus chassis includes four expansion slots for specialized functions. Operates from 100, 120, 220, or 240 Volt, 50 or 60 Hz mains; unit ships configured for 120 V with field-selectable voltage adjustment card.

– Technical Specifications

• Processor: 8-bit 6809 microprocessor
• Memory: 4 Kbytes RAM; 300-instruction program storage
• Actuator control channels: 4 independent outputs
• Output voltage: −10 to +10 V at 12-bit resolution (4096 steps)
• Power per channel: +15 VDC, 1.5 A
• Velocity control signal: +10 V
• Encoder input: Dual-output, 90° phase, +12.5/−0.5 V quadrature pulses
• Limit signal support: Yes
• Communications: RS-232C, IEEE-488
• Power input: 100/120/220/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz

– Key Features

• Four independent operating modes for manual and automated control
• Mnemonic command vocabulary for straightforward programming
• Dual-interface communications for system integration
• Optional 855K keypad/display for portable control
• 8-slot STD-Bus architecture with four expansion slots
• Support for high-resolution optical encoder feedback

– Compatibility & Integration

• Newport 850 Series Linear Actuators
• Newport Model 496 Power Rotation Stage
• Devices with DC motor drives and integral optical encoders