Software: SCL Utility

SCL, which stands for Serial Command Language, is a set of serial commands that was originally developed to control Si drives "real-time" over a serial connection from a host device. Since the original inception SCL has grown into a popular control option, and has spawned the versatile and powerful Q Programming language. In applications where a host device, such as a PC, PLC, HMI or other intelligent device with a serial communications port, is available, SCL can be used to control S, Q, and Si drives.

SCL allows a host device to direct a drive to perform a variety of motion and I/O tasks while retrieving system status information back from the drive. SCL requires a higher level of software programming experience than Si™ Programmer, and it requires that the user be able to send ascii character-based commands over a serial port. SCL is a versatile and powerful tool for an experienced system developer. In single-axis applications a drive can be directly connected to a host's serial port. In multi-axis applications a SiNet Hub can be used to act as a router, which allows a host to control up to 8 programmable Applied Motion drives from just one serial port.

The SCL Utility is a useful tool for users wishing to develop an application based on SCL. SCL Utility is a simple terminal emulator with built-in features that make working with Applied Motion drives much easier. View the graphic below to see some of the SCL Utility's highlights. Below we also provide sample Visual Basic code to illustrate how a host application running on a PC can send SCL commands to a drive.