Motion controller
Delta Electronics AX-3 motion CPU controller
PLC-format CODESYS motion CPU: AX-308E controls 8 EtherCAT servo axes at a 2 ms minimum sync time, with 16 DI / 8 DO, encoder and SSI inputs and expansion up to 32 modules.
Key specifications
| Data / bus | EtherCAT |
|---|---|
| Fieldbus | EtherCAT |
| Axes | 8 |
| Programming | CODESYS, IEC 61131-3 |
| Cycle | 2 ms for 8 axes (AX-308E) |
| Io | 16 DI / 8 DO, 2 incremental encoder inputs, 1 SSI input, up to 32 expansion modules |
Summarised in our own words from Delta Electronics, Inc.'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1 · Source 2
Notes on this data
AX-364EL variant handles 64 positioning axes per the catalogue.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Delta Electronics, Inc.. Delta Electronics and AX-3 motion CPU are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a Delta Electronics part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 2 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Slim 54 mm EtherCAT motion controller programmed in CODESYS, running up to 32 synchronised axes on a 1 ms cycle with RP20 I/O expansion.
| Published maximum | AX-3 motion CPU | AK (AK8 / AK840) |
|---|---|---|
| Axes | 8 | 32 meets or exceeds |
CODESYS-based PLC/motion controller with EtherCAT for 8, 16 or 32 axes plus 6 local pulse axes, dual-core SOC+FPGA and 32-module R2 I/O expansion.
| Published maximum | AX-3 motion CPU | MC500 (MC508CS / MC516CS / MC532CS) |
|---|---|---|
| Axes | 8 | 32 meets or exceeds |
Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a motion controller is
A motion controller plans and coordinates movement for one or more axes, sending position, velocity or torque commands to servo or stepper drives. It generates trajectories with defined acceleration and jerk, synchronises axes for interpolation, electronic gearing and camming, and handles homing, limits and registration inputs. Commands reach drives over pulse, analogue or, most commonly now, EtherCAT and other real-time networks. Many controllers also include PLC functions to IEC 61131-3, combining logic and motion.
When engineers choose a motion controller
Choose a dedicated motion controller when a machine needs coordinated multi-axis motion beyond basic point-to-point moves, such as robots, gantries, packaging and CNC. It gives deterministic timing and motion libraries. The trade-offs are cost, programming effort and ecosystem lock-in. For simple machines with a few independent axes, a PLC with motion function blocks or intelligent drives with stored moves may be enough.
How to specify the Delta Electronics AX-3 motion CPU
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right AX-3 motion CPU variant or an equivalent:
- Number of axes and drives
- Network and cycle time (ms)
- Motion functions: interpolation, camming, robotics
- Programming environment and languages
- I/O and expansion
- HMI and connectivity
- Safety integration
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing a controller that does not support the drives' network
- Underestimating cycle time needs for many axes
- Ignoring programming tools and skills in the team
- Not planning for future axis count
Delta Electronics AX-3 motion CPU: frequently asked questions
What is the Delta Electronics AX-3 motion CPU?
PLC-format CODESYS motion CPU: AX-308E controls 8 EtherCAT servo axes at a 2 ms minimum sync time, with 16 DI / 8 DO, encoder and SSI inputs and expansion up to 32 modules. Published series figures include axes 8. It is made by Delta Electronics, Inc.; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the Delta Electronics AX-3 motion CPU?
The Delta Electronics AX-3 motion CPU is made by Delta Electronics (Delta Electronics, Inc.) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with Delta Electronics, Inc.; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the axes of the Delta Electronics AX-3 motion CPU?
The published series maximum axes is 8. Individual models and sizes in the AX-3 motion CPU range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the Delta Electronics AX-3 motion CPU?
Yes. On published figures, Kinco AK (AK8 / AK840) and Leadshine MC500 (MC508CS / MC516CS / MC532CS) are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is the difference between a motion controller and a PLC?
A PLC handles machine logic, sequencing and I/O. A motion controller specialises in trajectory planning and coordinating axes. Many modern controllers combine both, running PLC logic and motion libraries on one CPU. Choose based on axis count, motion complexity and timing requirements.
Why is EtherCAT common for motion control?
EtherCAT offers short cycle times, precise synchronisation using distributed clocks and simple cabling, which suit coordinated multi-axis motion. Many drives and I/O devices support it. Other real-time networks such as PROFINET IRT and Sercos are also used, so check what the drives and controller support.
Further reading: How to select a motion controller or plc · Controllers and PLCs
Other motion controller series
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