The EPR48 is the highest-performance member of Zander's EPR family of electronic cam controllers, replacing mechanical cam switches with a 16-bit processor-based system for fully programmable motion sequence control. With 48 transistor outputs and a 1000 rpm maximum speed at 360 steps per revolution, it targets high-speed automated production machinery where mechanical cams wear out or lack flexibility.

How does the EPR48 compare to mechanical cam switches?

Unlike mechanical cam drums that require physical adjustment of cams and are limited to fixed profiles, the EPR48 stores up to 32 programs in battery-backed RAM with 192 KB capacity. Switch points are defined in software and can be modified during machine operation without stopping production. Per-output dead-time compensation adjusts switching timing in milliseconds — automatically and speed-dependently — to offset mechanical delays in valves, actuators, and solenoids.

How fast can the EPR48 operate?

The Version 2.0 and higher controller accepts encoder input frequencies up to 7000 Hz, corresponding to 1000 rpm with a 360-step/revolution absolute encoder. An integrated galvanically isolated 12V DC supply powers the encoder directly. The 16-bit CMOS processor runs a real-time multitasking operating system, ensuring switch-point calculations complete within a single encoder step even at maximum speed.

How are programs created and transferred?

Programming is performed via the IP65-sealed 9-key membrane keypad with a 12-digit LED dot-matrix display, or through Zander's EPRPRO software for Windows. EPRPRO supports offline program creation, simulation, documentation, and data transfer via the built-in RS-232 serial interface (optional RS-422/RS-485). External program selection is handled through a 6-bit binary input with a takeover signal, allowing automated recipe changes from a host PLC.