T-Series/Installation/T-MCA

Installation

To connect the device properly please carefully follow the steps illustrated below:

Note: Please be aware of the different types of cables attached to your controller and devices.

STEP 1		Plug the T-DSUB9 Mini-DIN to D-Sub serial adapter into your computer’s serial port then plug the Mini-DIN 6 pin data cable from your T-MCA controller into the adapter. You may need to use a T-DC06 cable extension to reach your computer. The T-DC06 and T-DSUB9 are included when a kit is purchased. There is no need to power-down or reboot the computer. Note: Our T-USB converter is available for those who wish to connect to a USB port rather than a serial port.
STEP 2		Connect your power supply to the T-MCA by inserting the PS05-24V25 Molex mini-fit jr. 3pin connector into the appropriate connection (see figure). The green LED should light up indicating that your controller has power. Note: If the LED is not a steady green, make sure that the pot knob is properly centered. No commands can be properly issued in the Zaber Console when the pot knob is turned.
STEP 3		Connect your device to the T-MCA controller using the Mini-DIN 8pin connector. It connects directly to the T-MCA housing, not one of the attached data cables. (see figure) Note: This connector will have 8 pins and is attached to your device, it should not be confused with the 6 pin data cables. Note: This connector can also be used in conjunction with the MC06 cable (usually supplied with your purchase).
STEP 4		Download and install a desired software control program from the software section on our website. We recommend installing the Zaber Console. To begin controlling your device using the Zaber Console, select the correct COM port from the drop down menu (top left), and then press the open button next to the drop down tab. As a simple first test, try entering these instructions: Home device 1 - Device:1, Cmd:1, Data:0 Move Absolute 30000 microsteps - Device:1, Cmd:20, Data:30000 Note: Zaber motion devices must be homed before entering any other commands. Homing a device gives it a starting referencing point. Your device will not move through its maximum range without issuing this command first.

Connector Wiring Diagrams

The wiring diagram below show the power connector pinouts as seen looking into the connector on the T-MCA housing.

Molex Mini-fit jr. 3 pin (T-MCA power connector)

Molex mini-fit jr. 3pin

The wiring diagram below shows the motor connector pinouts as seen looking into the connector on the T-MCA housing. This information will be needed if you wish to drive your own motor. Note that Pin 4 is reserved for a maximum limit sensor which has not yet been implemented.

Minidin 8 (T-MCA connector and MC06 cable)

Minidin 8 Female (on T-MCA)	Minidin 8 Male (on Peripheral)

Pin #	Function
1	Motor A1
2	Motor A2
3	Motor B1
4	Reserved for max limit signal input
5	Motor B2
6	+5V
7	Home signal
8	Ground

Data Cable Wiring Diagram

Pin#	Minidin 6 Female (to next device)	Minidin 6 Male (to previous device)
1	-	-
2	Receive (from next device)	Transmit (toward computer)
3	Ground	Ground
4	+12-16 Vdc *	+12-16 Vdc *
5	-	-
6	Transmit (to next device)	Receive (from computer)
nc	-	-
* T-Series 12-16V devices only (all T-series devices, except T-LSQ, T-LST, T-MCA)

Note that multiple cable suppliers have been used over the years, each implementing different color codes. Rather than relying on the wire colors, it is recommended that users perform a continuity test to determine which wires are connected to which pins on their own device.

To connect a Zaber device to a computer serial port requires a T-DSUB9 adaptor. It looks similar to an old PS/2 serial mouse adaptor, but it has different wiring.