Description
Galil DMC-1832 PCI Motion Controller – 3‑Axis precision control for servo/stepper systems
The Galil DMC-1832 is a 3‑axis PCI motion controller from the DMC‑18×2 family, designed for builders who want deterministic, multi‑axis motion inside a standard industrial PC. From my experience, it’s a straightforward way to coordinate servo or stepper axes with tight loop timing, without adding a separate external controller box. You might notice that it shines in applications like precision stages, pick‑and‑place, packaging, and light CNC retrofits where you need reliable interpolation and clean I/O mapping through a breakout module.
One thing I appreciate is the balance: you get robust trajectory generation (linear/circular/helical), electronic gearing and camming, and proven PID servo control with feedforward—yet the hardware stays simple to deploy in a PC backplane. In many cases it’s also a drop‑in replacement within Galil’s 18×2 ecosystem, so existing code and cables typically carry over with minimal fuss.
Order Placement Process and Guarantees
- Warranty: 365 days
- Delivery time: 1 week if in stock; no more than 1 month at the latest
- Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
- Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL
Key Features
- 3‑Axis PCI Controller: Integrates directly into a PC for deterministic control and easy software integration.
- Servo or Stepper per Axis: Typically supports ±10 V analog servo output or step/direction pulse for steppers, selectable per axis.
- High‑speed Encoder Feedback: Quadrature A/B/I inputs (TTL) for precise position feedback and homing.
- Advanced Motion Modes: Linear/circular/helical interpolation, electronic gearing and camming, jog and contouring profiles.
- Built‑in PID with Feedforward: Stable, repeatable control; tuning via GalilTools/Galil Design Kit (GDK) software.
- Digital I/O via Breakout: Clean wiring through 100‑pin high‑density connectors to screw‑terminal I/O modules (e.g., Galil ICM‑1900).
- PC‑centric Architecture: Lower panel footprint and simpler wiring compared with standalone motion controllers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand / Model | Galil DMC-1832 (DMC‑18×2 family) |
| Controller Type | PCI‑bus multi‑axis motion controller, 3 axes |
| HS Code | 8537.10 (Programmable controllers, reference) |
| Power Requirements | 5 VDC supplied by PCI slot; typical consumption ~5–7 W |
| Dimensions & Weight | Standard full‑height, half‑length PCI card; approx. 175 × 107 mm; ~0.2 kg |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 70 °C (typical commercial range) |
| Signal I/O Types | ±10 V analog outputs (servo), step/direction TTL (stepper), incremental encoder A/B/I (TTL), limit & home inputs via breakout |
| Communication Interfaces | PCI 32‑bit (33 MHz) host interface |
| Installation Method | Installs in PC PCI slot; field wiring via 100‑pin high‑density cable to screw‑terminal I/O module |
| Compatible Accessories | Galil ICM‑1900 (interconnect), shielded 100‑pin cable sets (family‑standard) |
Application Fields
This board is commonly used in:
- Precision XYθ stages and metrology tables (coordinated 2‑3 axis move profiles).
- Pick‑and‑place and small assembly gantries where quick interpolation is needed.
- Packaging, labeling, and converting lines using gearing/camming to sync with conveyors.
- Light CNC retrofits and lab automation where a PC already exists in the cabinet.
- Semiconductor handling and inspection where tight, repeatable servo loops are key.
A maintenance lead told us they swapped a legacy DMC‑1830 for a DMC‑1832 during a shutdown, reused the ICM and cabling, retuned the servo with GalilTools, and had production back in under an hour. That seems to be a typical upgrade path for this family.
Advantages & Value
- Reliability: Mature hardware and firmware with predictable motion timing.
- Compatibility: Works with standard Galil interconnect modules, cables, and tuning tools.
- Lower Total Cost: Uses existing PC resources; fewer panel components and shorter commissioning time in many cases.
- Lifecycle Support: Stable product family; replacement and repair paths are straightforward.
- Software Ecosystem: GalilTools/GDK streamline setup, tuning, and diagnostics.
Installation & Maintenance
- Cabinet & PC: Install in a clean, ventilated PC chassis mounted in an industrial cabinet; avoid dust accumulation and heat hotspots.
- Wiring: Use shielded cables to the I/O module (e.g., ICM‑1900). Keep encoder, analog, and motor power cables routed separately to reduce noise.
- Grounding: Single‑point grounding and proper shield terminations at the cabinet side typically reduce drift and encoder errors.
- Safety: Verify hard limits, E‑stop chain, and home sensors before enabling drives. Power the PC down before connecting/disconnecting cables.
- Tuning & Firmware: Perform PID tuning with GalilTools/GDK after mechanical changes; check for firmware updates during scheduled maintenance.
- Routine Checks: Quarterly inspection for loose terminals, fan filters, and connector wear; clean dust from the PC with dry air.
Quality & Certifications
- Typically conforms to CE and RoHS requirements for EMC and materials safety.
- Manufacturing quality aligned with ISO‑style processes commonly used for industrial electronics.
- Warranty provided: 365 days (repair/replace policy depending on evaluation).
If you’re replacing another DMC‑18×2 board or building a new 3‑axis platform, the DMC‑1832 offers a very practical path—coordinated motion, dependable I/O handling, and the comfort of a well‑known software toolchain. If your drive mix or connector scheme is unique, share a quick photo of the existing I/O block and we’ll confirm the breakout and cable set before you place the order.
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