This dual axis stepper motor drive system represents a new era in high performance operation. Using a bi-level type of drive circuit we have achieved higher speed and more power output from medium sized stepper motors. Full torque is available at all drive rates with no loss at high speed. To achieve high speed with a large inertial load the drive ramps up the speed over a 10 second period.
Extra power is used only when the adjustment buttons are used in slew mode.
The current in either motor is greatly reduced when they are operating at zero or slow step rates. This also reduces the holding torque but is not serious with a balanced telescope. As with all stepper motor systems the direction sense of both motors can be altered with jumper links so it is suitable for Southern and Northern Hemisphere use, or if the motor is fitted either end of the slow motion shaft. Power consumption depends on the motor type fitted but will be less than 2 Amps when you would need to connect something like a car battery. It is expected that a pack of cells will last at least 7 hours dependent on how often the high speed slews are used.