With the Squirrel family of dedicated motion controllers, TRINAMIC has eliminated the need for lengthy and complicated software development when designing stepper motor servos. Efficient and precise drives can be developed quickly using hardware with proven reliability. Integrated ramp controllers reduce the complexity of software and allow the implementation of complex multi-axis systems with multiple motors using only a single application processor.

TRINAMIC's family of motion controller products combines the best of both worlds; the first available product is the TMC4361-LA. The regulator is automatically reduced when approaching the target position. The motor behaves and is operated like a classic stepper motor; however, the position sensor is continually monitored. The control system kicks in only after reaching an angle outside the predefined window relative to the target. Therefore, the motor current can be reduced to the lowest level necessary while avoiding control oscillation. Energy consumption is reduced, and the system operates dynamically and reliably like a servo, yet stringent like a stepper motor.

A ramp controller for trapezoidal or S-shaped ramps is also included in the newest family of TRINAMIC devices; this allows all relevant ramp parameters to be taken into account during movement so that adjustments can be made in real-time along the way. Even better, there is no need for users to program the ramps or implement the control systems themselves. A high-end servo-stepper can be implemented quickly with no need for time-consuming software development and testing. This reduced time-to-market (TTM) reduces the total cost of ownership (TCO) and increases return on investment (ROI). The microcontroller need only be commissioned and given the desired target positions. This way, multi-axis systems are made simple, even with small controllers.