In the fields of Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) or Industrial Automation (IA), many control devices face difficulties in long-distance data transmission, exhibit poor anti-interference performance, and require address identification in software when multiple lower-level devices are networked. To address this, we have developed a stepper motor controller based on a local area network (Ethernet). This network-controlled stepper motor controller uses the TCP/IP protocol to communicate with the host computer (PC), ensuring stable and reliable operation. It offers long transmission distances (100 meters, extendable to 300 meters via switch cascading, and even enables ultra-long-distance control over the internet). Each stepper motor is assigned an IP address, allowing control data transmission to be distinguished by IP address. It supports a large number of stepper motors (IP address range: 192.168.1.0 to 192.168.1.255, capable of driving up to 255 stepper motors; the host computer (PC) occupies one IP address). Network installation is straightforward, and wireless local area networks can be used in locations where wiring is inconvenient.
    Sending a string of ASCII code commands to this network stepper motor controller allows control of the stepper motor's direction, speed, and step amount, without requiring any understanding of the working principles of the stepper motor or driver. For example: if the host computer sends "S102" to a controller at a specific IP address via the network, the stepper motor will rotate clockwise at 102 revolutions per minute; if the host computer sends "N320" to a controller at a specific IP address via the network, the stepper motor will rotate counterclockwise at 320 revolutions per minute; if the host computer sends "S109J" to a controller at a specific IP address via the network, the stepper motor will step clockwise by 109 step angles; if the host computer sends "N1060J" to a controller at a specific IP address via the network, the stepper motor will step counterclockwise by 1060 step angles. It is suitable for precision speed control, precision motion control, precision machining, etc., with extremely high control accuracy. Speed error is <0.01 revolutions per minute, output drive motor pulse frequency error is <0.1 Hz, and the minimum single-step fine-tuning is 1 Hz. Higher precision control boards can also be customized upon request. For bulk orders, VB software demonstration source code for controlling stepper motors via WINSOCK is provided.