Programming pressure, flow, and positional functions in closed-loop hydraulic-drive applications is easy with the VT-HCD-1 digital amplifier, says Bosch Rexroth Corp., Lehigh Valley, Pa., (boschrexroth-us.com). The unit accepts analog voltage/current and digital SSI or incremental feedback and has algorithms optimized for controlling hydraulic axes. It is also pre-programmed for servo and proportional valves.

Thirty-two predefined function blocks allow complex control. It supports six software-switchable analog inputs, three switchable analog outputs (one switchable), eight programmable digital inputs, and seven configurable digital outputs, and is used as a command value generator for processing and scaling signals.

It is packaged in Eurocard format and sports an alphanumeric display, pushbuttons for entering command values and diagnostics, status LEDs, analog test jacks, and a serial interface for PC-programming with Rexroth's Windows-based Bodac digital-axis-control software. The card also supports CANopen fieldbus for connectivity to controllers.