8742 Series User Manual Picomotor
User Manual:
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- DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
- Warranty
- Technical Support Contacts
- Table of Contents
- List of Figures
- 1 Safety Precautions
- 2 General Information
- 3 Theory of Operation
- 4 Initial Setup
- 5 Computer Interfacing
- 6 Remote Command Set
- 7 Appendix
- 8 Maintenance and Service

Picomotor™ Controller/Driver 
User’s Manual 
Model 8742 

ii  Preface 
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY 
Year   mark affixed: 2017 
The Manufacturer: 
With Authorized Representative: 
Newport Corporation 
1791 Deere Avenue 
Irvine, California 92606 
United States of America 
MICRO_CONTROLE Spectra-
Physics 
9, rue du Bois Sauvage 
F-91055 Evry 
France 
Hereby declares that the product: 
Description: “Picomotor Controller/Driver and its power supply” 
Function:  Motion Controller/Driver 
Type of equipment:  Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use 
Model Numbers: 8742 -various, 8745-PS 
The object of the declaration described above is in conformity with: 
 Directive 2011/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 8 June 2011 on the 
Restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment 
 Directive 2014/30/EU relating to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) 
 Directive 2014/35/EU relating to electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage 
limits (Low Voltage) 
And was designed and built in accordance with the following harmonized standards: 
BS EN 50581:2012  
BS EN 61326-1:2013 
BS EN 61010-1:2010 
CISPR 11:2009+A1:2010 Class A Group 1 radiated and conducted emission limits. 
This declaration of conformity is issued under the sole responsibility of Newport Corporation. 
Signed for and on behalf of:  Newport Corporation 
Date:  March 3, 2017 
Gwen Briens 
Senior Director, Business Unit 
Instrument and Motion 
Newport Corporation 
1791 Deere Avenue, Irvine, CA 92606 USA 

  Preface  iii  iii 
Warranty 
New Focus warrants that this product will be free from defects in material and 
workmanship and will comply with New Focus’s published specifications at the 
time of sale for a period of one year from date of shipment.  If found to be defective 
during the warranty period, the product will either be repaired or replaced at New 
Focus's option. 
To exercise this warranty, write or call your local New Focus office or 
representative, or contact Newport headquarters in Irvine, California.  You will be 
given prompt assistance and return instructions.  Send the product, freight prepaid, 
to the indicated service facility.  Repairs will be made and the instrument returned 
freight prepaid.  Repaired products are warranted for the remainder of the original 
warranty period or 90 days, whichever first occurs. 
Limitation of Warranty 
The above warranties do not apply to products which have been repaired or modified 
without New Focus’s written approval, or products subjected to unusual physical, 
thermal or electrical stress, improper installation, misuse, abuse, accident or 
negligence in use, storage, transportation or handling.  This warranty also does not 
apply to fuses, batteries, or damage from battery leakage. 
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED 
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF 
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR USE.  NEW FOCUS 
SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, OR 
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE PURCHASE OR USE 
OF ITS PRODUCTS. 
First printing 2017 
© 2017 by New Focus, Santa Clara, CA.  All rights reserved.  No part of this manual 
may be reproduced or copied without the prior written approval of New Focus. 
This manual has been provided for information only and product specifications are 
subject to change without notice.  Any change will be reflected in future printings. 
New Focus 
3635 Peterson Way 
Santa Clara, CA, 95054  
USA 
Part No. 90066734 Rev. D 

iv  Preface 
Confidentiality & Proprietary Rights 
Reservation of Title 
The New Focus programs and all materials furnished or produced in connection with 
them ("Related Materials") contain trade secrets of New Focus and are for use only 
in the manner expressly permitted.  New Focus claims and reserves all rights and 
benefits afforded under law in the Programs provided by New Focus. 
New Focus shall retain full ownership of Intellectual Property Rights in and to all 
development, process, align or assembly technologies developed and other 
derivative work that may be developed by New Focus.  Customer shall not 
challenge, or cause any third party to challenge the rights of New Focus. 
Preservation of Secrecy and Confidentiality and Restrictions to Access 
Customer shall protect the New Focus Programs and Related Materials as trade 
secrets of New Focus, and shall devote its best efforts to ensure that all its personnel 
protect the New Focus Programs as trade secrets of New Focus.  Customer shall not 
at any time disclose New Focus's trade secrets to any other person, firm, 
organization, or employee that does not need (consistent with Customer's right of 
use hereunder) to obtain access to the New Focus Programs and Related Materials.  
These restrictions shall not apply to information (1) generally known to the public or 
obtainable from public sources; (2) readily apparent from the keyboard operations, 
visual display, or output reports of the Programs; 3) previously in the possession of 
Customer or subsequently developed or acquired without reliance on the New Focus 
Programs; or (4) approved by New Focus for release without restriction. 
Trademarks 
The New Focus logo and name are registered trademarks of Newport Corporation in 
Mexico, Israel, Singapore, European Union, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Japan, 
Korea, Canada, Australia, and the United States.  
Service Information 
This section contains information regarding factory service for the source.  The user 
should not attempt any maintenance or service of the system or optional equipment 
beyond the procedures outlined in this manual.  Any problem that cannot be 
resolved should be referred to New Focus. 

  Preface  v  v 
Technical Support Contacts 
North America 
Europe 
New Focus 
3635 Peterson Way, Santa Clara, CA 95054 
Telephone: (866) 683-6287 
Telephone: (408) 919-1500 
Newport/MICRO-CONTROLE S.A. 
Zone Industrielle 
45340 Beaune la Rolande, FRANCE 
Telephone: (33) 02 38 40 51 56 
Asia 
Newport Opto-Electronics Technologies 
中国 上海市 爱都路 253号 第3号楼 3层 
C部位, 邮编  200131 
253  Aidu  Road,  Bld  #3,  Flr  3,  Sec  C, 
Shanghai  200131,  China 
Telephone: +86-21-5046 2300 
Fax: +86-21-5046 2323 
Newport Corporation Calling Procedure 
If there are any defects in material or workmanship or a failure to meet 
specifications, promptly notify Newport's Returns Department by calling 1-800-222-
6440 or by visiting our website at www.newport.com/returns within the warranty 
period to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number (RMA#).  Return the 
product to Newport Corporation, freight prepaid, clearly marked with the RMA# and 
we will either repair or replace it at our discretion.  Newport is not responsible for 
damage occurring in transit and is not obligated to accept products returned without 
an RMA#.  
E-mail: rma.service@newport.com 
When calling New Focus Corporation, please provide the customer care 
representative with the following information: 
Your Contact Information 
Serial number or original order number  
Description of problem (i.e., hardware or software) 
To help our Technical Support Representatives diagnose your problem, please note 
the following conditions: 
Is the system used for manufacturing or research and development? 
What was the state of the system right before the problem? 
Have you seen this problem before? If so, how often? 
Can the system continue to operate with this problem? Or is the system non-
operational? 
Can you identify anything that was different before this problem occurred? 

vi  Preface 
Table of Contents 
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ................................................ ii 
Warranty ............................................................................................ iii 
Technical Support Contacts ................................................................. v 
Table of Contents ............................................................................... vi 
List of Figures .................................................................................... ix 
1 Safety Precautions  10 
1.1 Definitions and Symbols........................................................... 10 
1.1.1 General Warning or Caution ......................................... 10 
1.1.2 Electric Shock ............................................................... 10 
1.1.3 Potential Burn Hazard ................................................... 10 
1.1.4 European Union CE Mark ............................................. 11 
1.1.5 Alternating voltage symbol ........................................... 11 
1.1.6 On................................................................................. 11 
1.1.7 Off ................................................................................ 11 
1.1.8 Ground ......................................................................... 11 
1.1.9 DC Symbol ................................................................... 12 
1.1.10 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) ..... 12 
1.1.11 Control of Hazardous Substances .................................. 12 
1.2 Warnings and Cautions ............................................................. 13 
1.2.1 General Warnings ......................................................... 13 
1.2.2 General Cautions .......................................................... 14 
1.2.3 Summary of Warnings and Cautions ............................. 14 
1.3 Location of Labels and Warnings ............................................. 17 
1.4 Safety Grounding Considerations ............................................. 18 
2 General Information  20 
2.1 System Overview ..................................................................... 20 
2.2 Scope of this Manual ................................................................ 21 
2.3 Unpacking and Inspection ........................................................ 21 
2.3.1 What is included ........................................................... 21 
2.4 Available accessories................................................................ 21 
2.5 Safety ....................................................................................... 22 
2.6 Specifications ........................................................................... 23 
2.6.1 Operating Limits* ......................................................... 23 
2.6.2 Weight, Dimensions ...................................................... 24 

  Preface  vii  vii 
3 Theory of Operation  25 
3.1 How the Picomotor Actuator Works .........................................25 
3.2 Stepping the Picomotor with the 8742 Controller/Driver ...........25 
3.3 Status Indicator .........................................................................26 
3.4 Power Supply............................................................................27 
3.4.1 Fault Protection .............................................................27 
3.5 Input / Output Connections .......................................................28 
3.5.1 USB ..............................................................................29 
3.5.2 Ethernet .........................................................................29 
3.5.3 RS-485 ..........................................................................29 
3.5.4 Power ............................................................................29 
3.5.5 Picomotor Interfaces......................................................29 
3.6 Mounting the unit .....................................................................30 
4 Initial Setup  31 
4.1 Introduction ..............................................................................31 
4.2 Grounding.................................................................................31 
4.3 Power .......................................................................................31 
4.4 Connecting 8742 to a Computer via USB ..................................31 
4.5 Connecting 8742 to a Computer via Ethernet ............................32 
4.5.1 Connecting to a Router ..................................................32 
4.6 Picomotor Connections .............................................................32 
4.7 Connecting Multiple Units to a Computer .................................33 
4.7.1 Using USB Hubs ...........................................................34 
4.7.2 Using Ethernet Routers/Switchers .................................35 
4.7.3 Using RS-485 LAN to Daisy-Chain...............................36 
4.8 Connecting to the 8758 Hand Control Pad.................................38 
5 Computer Interfacing  40 
5.1 Introduction ..............................................................................40 
5.2 Computer Interface Terminology ..............................................40 
5.3 USB Communication ................................................................40 
5.3.1 USB Command Termination .........................................41 
5.4 Ethernet Communication ..........................................................41 
5.4.1 Ethernet Dynamic and Static IP Address Setup ..............42 
5.4.2 Using a Static IP Address ..............................................42 
5.4.3 Ethernet Peer-to-Peer Cabling .......................................45 
5.4.4 Communicating Using a Hostname................................45 

viii  Preface 
5.5 RS-485 Communication ........................................................... 46 
5.5.1 Setting up an RS-485 Network ...................................... 47 
5.5.2 Communication with a Slave Controller ........................ 48 
5.6 Picomotor Controller Software Application .............................. 49 
5.6.1 Introduction .................................................................. 49 
5.6.2 Overview ...................................................................... 50 
5.6.3 Embedded Dynamic HTTP Server ................................ 61 
5.7 LabVIEWTM and C# Programming Support .............................. 62 
5.7.1 Introduction .................................................................. 62 
6 Remote Command Set  63 
6.1 Command Syntax ..................................................................... 63 
6.1.1 RS-485 Command Syntax ............................................. 64 
6.1.2 Summary of Command Syntax ..................................... 65 
6.2 Command List .......................................................................... 66 
6.2.1 Description of Commands ............................................. 68 
7 Appendix  96 
7.1 Non Axis-Specific Error Messages ........................................... 96 
7.2 Axis-Specific Error Messages ................................................... 97 
8 Maintenance and Service  99 
8.1 Enclosure Cleaning................................................................... 99 
8.2 Technical Support .................................................................... 99 
8.3 Service ................................................................................... 100 
8.4 Obtaining Service ................................................................... 100 
8.5 Warranty ................................................................................ 100 
8.6 Service Form .......................................................................... 101 

  Preface  ix ix 
List of Figures 
 General Warning or Caution Symbol .......................................... 10 Figure 1
 Electrical Shock Symbol ............................................................ 10 Figure 2
 Hot Surface  Symbol .................................................................. 10 Figure 3
 CE Mark .................................................................................... 11 Figure 4
 Alternating Voltage Symbol ....................................................... 11 Figure 5
 On Symbol ................................................................................. 11 Figure 6
 Off Symbol ................................................................................ 11 Figure 7
 Ground  Symbol ......................................................................... 11 Figure 8
 DC Symbol ................................................................................ 12 Figure 9
 WEEE Directive Symbol ............................................................ 12 Figure 10
 RoHS Compliant Symbol ........................................................... 12 Figure 11
 Labels and Warnings .................................................................. 17 Figure 12
 Status Indicators position ........................................................... 26 Figure 13
 Heatsink mounting slots ............................................................. 28 Figure 14
 8742 Inputs and Outputs ............................................................. 28 Figure 15
 L-bracket .................................................................................... 33 Figure 16
 Using L-brackets to stack up several Controllers ........................ 33 Figure 17
 Connecting four units to a computer via a USB hub ................... 34 Figure 18
 Connecting three units to a computer via an Ethernet router ....... 35 Figure 19
 Connecting four units to a computer via RS-485 LAN ................ 36 Figure 20
 Connecting four units to a computer via RS-485 adapter ............ 37 Figure 21
 Single Controller Setup .............................................................. 38 Figure 22
 Multiple Controller Setup ........................................................... 39 Figure 23
 Picomotor Controller RS-485 LAN Topology ............................ 47 Figure 24
 Picomotor Application Software................................................. 49 Figure 25
 Controller Address Identification ............................................... 50 Figure 26
 Jog Tab ...................................................................................... 51 Figure 27
 Cycle Tab ................................................................................... 52 Figure 28
 Terminal Tab.............................................................................. 53 Figure 29
 Controller Setup Window ........................................................... 54 Figure 30
 Ethernet Setup Window .............................................................. 55 Figure 31
 Options Window ........................................................................ 56 Figure 32
 Properties Window ..................................................................... 57 Figure 33
 Controller Scan .......................................................................... 58 Figure 34
 Address Conflict Resolution Window......................................... 59 Figure 35
 Device Address Window ............................................................ 60 Figure 36
 Internet Browser View ............................................................... 61 Figure 37
 Command Syntax Diagram ........................................................ 63 Figure 38

1  Safety Precautions 
1.1  Definitions and Symbols 
The following terms and symbols are used in this documentation and also appear on 
the Model 8742 Controller/Driver where safety-related issues occur. 
1.1.1 General Warning or Caution 
 General Warning or Caution Symbol Figure 1
The Exclamation Symbol in the figure above appears on the product and in Warning 
and Caution tables throughout this document.  This symbol designates that 
documentation needs to be consulted to determine the nature of a potential hazard, 
and any actions that have to be taken. 
1.1.2 Electric Shock 
 Electrical Shock Symbol Figure 2
The Electrical Shock Symbol in the figure above appears throughout this manual 
and on the product.  This symbol indicates a hazard arising from dangerous voltage.  
Any mishandling could result in irreparable damage to the equipment, and personal 
injury or death. 
1.1.3 Potential Burn Hazard 
 Hot Surface  Symbol Figure 3
The Hot Surface Symbol in the figure above appears throughout this manual and on 
the product.  This symbol indicates a hazard arising from a high temperature.  Any 
mishandling could result in personal injury. 

  Safety Precautions   11 11 
1.1.4 European Union CE Mark 
 CE Mark Figure 4
The presence of the CE Mark on New Focus equipment means that this instrument 
has been designed, tested and certified compliant to all applicable European Union 
(CE) regulations and recommendations. 
1.1.5  Alternating voltage symbol 
 Alternating Voltage Symbol Figure 5
This international symbol implies an alternating voltage or current. 
1.1.6 On 
I 
 On Symbol Figure 6
The symbol in the figure above represents a power switch position on a Model 8742.  
This symbol represents a Power On condition. 
1.1.7 Off 
 Off Symbol Figure 7
The symbol in the figure above represents a power switch position on the Model 
8742.  This symbol represents a Power Off condition. 
1.1.8 Ground 
 Ground  Symbol Figure 8
~ 

12  Safety Precautions 
The symbol in the figure above appears on the Model 8742 to indicate the screw to 
be used to ground the case of the unit.  This symbol identifies the frame or chassis 
terminal. 
1.1.9  DC Symbol 
 DC Symbol Figure 9
This international symbol implies an unvarying current or voltage. 
1.1.10  Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)  
 WEEE Directive Symbol Figure 10
This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product must not 
be disposed with regular waste.  Instead, it is the user responsibility to dispose of 
waste equipment according to the local laws.  The separate collection and recycling 
of the waste equipment at the time of disposal will help to conserve natural 
resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and 
the environment.  For information about where the user can drop off the waste 
equipment for recycling, please contact your local New Focus representative.   
1.1.11 Control of Hazardous Substances 
 RoHS Compliant Symbol Figure 11
This label indicates the products comply with the EU Directive 2002/95/EC that 
restricts the content of six hazardous chemicals. 

  Safety Precautions   13 13 
1.2  Warnings and Cautions 
The Model 8742 is a component of a system that will contain one or more 
Picomotors and other items.  Since New Focus cannot control these other system 
components, the User is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the complete system 
meets all applicable product and workplace safety regulations.  Specific attention 
should be directed to the description of safety grounding concerns described in 
Section 1.4, below. 
The following are definitions of the Warnings, Cautions and Notes that are used 
throughout this manual to call your attention to important information regarding 
your safety, the safety and preservation of your equipment or an important tip. 
WARNING 
Situation has the potential to cause bodily harm or death. 
CAUTION 
Situation has the potential to cause damage to property or 
equipment. 
NOTE 
Additional information the user or operator should consider. 
Situation has the potential to cause the product to not comply 
with applicable European Union regulations.  
1.2.1 General Warnings 
Observe these general warnings when operating or servicing this equipment: 
 Heed all warnings on the unit and in the operating instructions. 
 Do not use this equipment in or near water. 
 Although the input power to this equipment is below 20 VDC, this 
equipment internally generates much higher voltages that are present 
on the Model 8742 connector pins. Only properly trained personnel 
should touch either of these items. 
 The Model 8742 is intended to be used as a component in a larger 
system.  When this product is included as part of a larger assembly, 
the user MUST ensure that appropriate additional safety and EMC-
compliance features are incorporated the assembly. 
 The Model 8742 is typically supplied with an external DC power 
source.  When the external power source is connected to MAINS 
power, the external power source’s detachable power cord may be 
used to disconnect power to the 8742. Do not position the external 

14  Safety Precautions 
power supply so that its MAINS power cord cannot be easily 
disconnected.  
 Disconnect power before cleaning the equipment.  Do not use liquid 
or aerosol cleaners; use only a damp lint-free cloth. 
 Lockout all electrical power sources before servicing the equipment. 
 There are no user-replaceable fuses in this equipment.  The user 
must ensure that appropriate current-limiting protection is provided 
by the external DC power source. 
 To avoid explosion, do not operate this equipment in an explosive 
atmosphere. 
 Qualified service personnel should perform safety checks after any 
service. 
 Use only the New Focus-supplied MAINS power cord with the 
external DC supply.  Use of under-rated power cords and cause 
property damage 
1.2.2 General Cautions 
Observe these cautions when operating this equipment: 
 If this equipment is used in a manner not specified in this manual, 
the protection provided by this equipment may be impaired. 
 Do not block ventilation openings. 
 Use only the specified replacement parts. 
 Follow precautions for static sensitive devices when handling this 
equipment. 
 This product should only be powered as described in the manual.   
 There are no user-serviceable parts inside the Model 8742 
Picomotor Drive Module. 
1.2.3  Summary of Warnings and Cautions 
The following general warning and cautions are applicable to this instrument: 
WARNING 
The Picomotor Controller/Driver is incomplete in constructional 
features and is considered only to be a component for the 
purposes of regulatory compliance.  It is “equipment for building 
in;” a suitable enclosure must be provided so that the unit is not 
user accessible when incorporated into the final product. 

  Safety Precautions   15 15 
WARNING 
The Model 8742 Picomotor Controller/Driver internally generates 
non-SELV voltages.  These voltages are present, at times, on the 
Picomotor connectors even when a Picomotor is not connected.  
The user shall mount the Model 8742 with appropriate barriers, 
spacings, markings, etc. to ensure that all applicable regulatory 
requirements are met.  THIS IS THE USER’S RESPONSIBILITY. 
WARNING 
Do not attempt to operate this equipment if there is evidence of 
shipping damage or you suspect the unit is damaged.  Damaged 
equipment may present additional hazards to you.  Contact New 
Focus technical support for advice before attempting to plug in 
and operate damaged equipment. 
WARNING 
The Model 8742 is intended for use ONLY with New Focus 
Picomotors.  Connection of other devices to the unit’s motor 
connectors may cause damage to the unit or the connected 
device, fire, and/or personal injury. 
WARNING 
Before operating the Model 8742 Picomotor Driver, please read 
and understand all of Section 1. 
WARNING 
Do not attempt to operate this equipment if there is evidence of 
shipping damage or you suspect the unit is damaged.  Damaged 
equipment may present additional hazards to you.  Contact New 
Focus technical support for advice before attempting to plug in 
and operate damaged equipment. 
WARNING 
Do not apply external DC power to this equipment in excess of 
14.5 VDC. 
WARNING 
Use only the New Focus-supplied MAINS power cord with the 
external DC power supply.  Use of an under-rated power cord 
may cause damage to the product, fire, and/or personal injury. 

16  Safety Precautions 
CAUTION 
There are no user serviceable parts inside the Model 8742 
Picomotor Controller/Driver.  Work performed by persons not 
authorized by New Focus will void the warranty.   
WARNING 
If this equipment is used in a manner not specified in this 
manual, the protection provided by this equipment may be 
impaired. 
WARNING 
This instrument is intended for use by qualified personnel who 
recognize thermal, shock, or laser hazards and are familiar with 
safety precautions required to avoid possible injury.  Read the 
instruction manual thoroughly before using, to become familiar 
with the instrument’s operations and capabilities. 
CAUTION 
The Model 8742 Picomotor Controller/Driver is designed to be 
safe when operated under Normal Environmental Conditions as 
defined in EN61010-1:2010.  Operation under harsher 
environmental conditions can result in severe injury.  
CAUTION 
The case of the Model 8742 Picomotor Controller/Driver is used 
to dissipate internally-generated heat.  Blocking the normal 
convective airflow around the unit, or thermally insulating the 
unit, can result in severe injury, damage to the product, and/or 
fire. 
CAUTION 
When operated at higher pulse rates for extended periods of 
time, the temperature on the outside of the Model 8742’s case 
may rise above the “surface temperature limits in normal 
operation” as defined in EN61010-1:2010 unless the user takes 
appropriate measures.  These may include the addition of an 
external heat sink, barriers to contact, reducing the pulse 
frequency, or other appropriate mitigations.  Failure to take 
appropriate action when operating the Model 8742 under these 
conditions can result in severe injury.  

  Safety Precautions   17 17 
The Model 8742 Picomotor Controller/Driver is intended for use 
in an industrial laboratory environment.  Use of this product in 
other environments, such as residential, may result in 
electromagnetic compatibility difficulties due to conducted as 
well as radiated disturbances.  
1.3  Location of Labels and Warnings 
 Labels and Warnings Figure 12
CE Mark 
Power 
Supply 
Voltage and 
Current 
Serial Number 
and WEEE 
Symbol 
Chassis Ground 
Label 
High 
Voltage 
Warning 
Symbol 
Model 
Number 
Applicable 
US Patents 

18  Safety Precautions 
1.4  Safety Grounding Considerations 
There are potentially lethal voltages generated within the Model 8742 Picomotor 
Controller/Driver and presented on the pins of the “Motor” connectors EVEN 
WHEN NO PICOMOTOR IS INSTALLED.  (These voltages are not present when 
power is not applied to the unit.  They are not present when the unit is switched 
OFF.)  The User must manage certain system-level aspects to ensure safe operation.  
One of these is grounding.  
The Model 8742’s external DC power supply provides 12VDC.  The negative output 
from this supply is typically isolated from MAINS earth ground, but this isolation 
should not be assumed.  This same negative output is connected directly to the 
Model 8742’s external case within the Model 8742.  This same “ground” is at the 
same potential as the MOTOR connectors’ return signal pins.  This means that the 
MOTOR connectors’ drive signal pins are, at times, at VERY HIGH VOLTAGES 
relative to the Model 8742 case, the USB connector shell, and the DC input/loop-
through connectors’ negative terminals. 
An 8-32 screw is provided on the unit and marked with the “Ground” symbol shown 
in Paragraph 1.1.8, above.  While it is not necessary to connect this terminal to a 
building “earth” ground, New Focus recommends doing so because it will simplify 
system-level compliance with most regulatory requirements.  Once this connection 
is made, the user must ensure that all other system components are appropriately 
grounded.  Do not depend upon the physical mounting hardware to accomplish this 
grounding. 
If the other components are not grounded, a damaged Picomotor (or its wire) could 
result in a dangerously high voltage being present between anything that is grounded 
(like the 8742 and a computer attached to it via USB) and the Picomotor case.  Note 
that the simplest way to ground a Picomotor is via its threaded mounting bushing or 
other mounting hardware. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPEN A PICOMOTOR TO 
ACHIEVE THIS GROUNDING. 
If system requirements prevent the Picomotor from being grounded, then the user 
must ensure that the Model 8742 and all other system components (including any 
USB-connected computers) are properly isolated from earth ground.  This is because 
a short of the high-voltage drive signal to an earth ground may result in potentially 
lethal voltages existing between the case of the 8742 and anything that is earth 
grounded, such as a floor.  The User is advised to consult all applicable regulations 

  Safety Precautions   19 19 
because this insulation will probably need to have a breakdown voltage of several 
thousand volts due to lightening concerns.   
In summary, New Focus strongly recommends grounding the Model 8742’s case. 

2  General Information 
2.1  System Overview 
8742 is a 4-axis open-loop motion controller/driver for Picomotors, offering a 
complete motion solution for many applications.  It can control up to 4 Picomotors 
and it can work in systems with other Model 8742 and 8743-CL Controller/Drivers 
to drive a large number of Picomotors.  The controller can be programmed via USB, 
Ethernet, and RS-485 communication interfaces to perform different motion tasks: 
relative and absolute moves, jogging, etc.   
Key Product Features 
A number of advanced features make the 8742 an excellent choice for many 
applications: 
 Intelligent 4-axis open-loop control 
 Compact, integrated controller and driver design  
 Patented Picomotor™ compatibility with auto-sensing technology 
 Programmable settings stored in non-volatile memory 
 Plug-and-play USB 2.0 interface 
 10/100-Mbps Ethernet connectivity (Sockets interface, TCP/IP, DHCP, UDP) 
 Embedded dynamic HTTP server 
 RS-485 LAN interface 
 Over temperature protection 
 Advanced microcontroller technology 
 Embedded real-time operating system 
 Easy to use Windows software utility 
 LabVIEWTM and C# programming support 
 Local Power ON / OFF Switch 

  General Information   21 21 
2.2  Scope of this Manual 
Please carefully read this instruction manual before using the 8742 Picomotor 
Controller/Driver.  Be especially careful to observe the warnings and cautions 
throughout this manual (see Safety Symbols and Terms). If any operating 
instructions are not clear, contact New Focus.  
This instruction manual contains the necessary information for operation and 
maintenance of the Model 8742, as well as information for troubleshooting and 
obtaining service if necessary.   
2.3  Unpacking and Inspection 
The Model 8742 is carefully assembled, tested and inspected before shipment.  
Upon receiving this instrument, check for any obvious signs of physical damage that 
might have occurred during shipment.  Report any such damage to the shipping 
agent immediately.  
NOTE  
Retain the original packing materials in case reshipment becomes necessary.  
2.3.1  What is included  
The 8742 package contents: 
 8742 Controller/Driver 
 USB Flash Drive which contains the user manual, various documents, USB 
driver, software application and libraries.  
2.4  Available accessories 
 Hand Control Pad (Model 8758) 
 Power supply/AC adapter, 60 Watt (Model 8745-PS) 
 Power supply link cable, 6 inch, for daisy chaining multiple controllers together 
using a single 12 VDC supply (Model 8745-PWR-CBL) 
 RS-485 LAN link cable, 6 inch, for daisy-chaining (Model 8745-RS485-CBL) 
 USB cable, 3 meter (Model 8745-USB-CBL) 
 L-shaped bracket for stacking several Controllers/Drivers (Model 8745-STK-KIT) 
 Optical table mounting plate kit (Model 8745-MTG-KIT) 

22  General Information 
2.5  Safety 
Voltages of up to 130 V are accessible inside the 8742 Controller/Driver chassis, 
mounts, and Picomotors.  DO NOT operate the units with the driver or mount covers 
removed. If the wire of a mount or Picomotor is damaged, discontinue use and 
return it for repair. If the device is used in a manner not specified by New Focus, the 
protection provided by the device may be impaired. 
Normally, the case of the Model 8742 will rise a few degrees when a Picomotor is 
moved.  Under conditions of extreme use, meaning long distance moves on one or 
more motor channels, the case temperature may rise above what is considered safe 
under various international safety conventions.  Even after extreme use, the unit’s 
case temperature will drop to safe levels within a few minutes.  The user should not 
touch the case immediately following such use.  Note that the Model 8742 does 
contain internal temperature protection circuitry that will shut down the unit when 
the case approaches a temperature that could degrade or damage the unit. 
CAUTION 
The case of the Model 8742 Picomotor 
Controller/Driver is used to dissipate internally-
generated heat.  Blocking the normal convective 
airflow around the unit, or thermally insulating the 
unit, can result in severe injury, damage to the 
product, and/or fire. 

  General Information   23 
2.6  Specifications 
2.6.1 Operating Limits* 
PARAMETER 
MIN. 
MAX. 
Model 8742 Power input voltage (+V IN) 
10.5 V 
14.5 V 
Power Consumption @ 12 Volts 
2 Watts  
(Idle) 
11 Watts 
(@ 2 kHz 
speed) 
Ambient still-air operating temperature 
0 °C 
65 °C 
Storage temperature (non-operating) 
-40 °C 
95 °C 
Relative Humidity, operating (non-condensing) 
10% 
90% 
Altitude 
2000 meters 
Environment, Use 
Indoor Use 
Only 
Pollution Degree 
2 
*Operating outside the operating limits may damage the unit. 

24  General Information 
2.6.2  Weight, Dimensions 
Weight  
9.5 oz (270 g) 
Dimensions  
(L x W x H)  
5.84 in x 3.61 in x 1.02 in 
148.3 mm x 91.7 mm x 25.9 mm 

3  Theory of Operation 
3.1  How the Picomotor Actuator Works   
The patented design of the Picomotor actuator relies on the basic difference between 
dynamic and static friction.  A graphic example of this is the “tablecloth trick”, in 
which a quick pull of the cloth leaves the dishes on the table, while a slow pull of the 
tablecloth ends up pulling the dishes off the table (high static friction).  
The Picomotor actuator uses the same principle with a threaded jaw, similar to two 
halves of a split nut, clamped around a precision 80-pitch screw. One jaw is 
connected to one end of a piezoelectric transducer, and the other jaw is connected to 
the other end of the transducer.  A slow electrical signal applied to the piezo slowly 
changes the length, causing the two jaws to slide in opposite direction.  This slow 
sliding motion makes the screw turn (static friction).  At the end of the transducer 
motion, a fast electrical signal quickly returns the jaws to their starting positions.  
Because of the screw’s inertia and low dynamic friction, it remains motionless, 
holding its position.  Simply reversing the order of the fast and slow signals reverses 
the direction of rotation.  
3.2  Stepping the Picomotor with the 8742 Controller/Driver 
Although the Picomotor is not a stepper, per se, it can be driven step-by-step.  Each 
step size depends on the Picomotor model, but it is usually < 30nm, allowing for 
very small, controlled movements.  
8742 can be programmed for single step control, as well as a predetermined number 
of steps.  Moreover, 8742 can drive the Picomotor in a continuous motion, in either 
direction at variable speeds.  
As opposed to magnetic motors, the Picomotor actuator has a set-and-forget 
stability.  When no power is applied, the actuator does not move. The user can feel 
confident that the Picomotor will not change its position, even when the 8742 
Controller/Driver is powered off.  Therefore, the 8742 has a power ON/OFF switch 
for convenience.  If a user has a 4-Picomotor system, once the system is set, the user 
can turn the power OFF, to assure that the Picomotors will not be inadvertently 
moved through computer control.  In addition, the 8742 Controller/Driver can be 
programmed with the outputs disconnected, with the same effect as in the power 
OFF state.  

26  Theory of Operation 
3.3  Status Indicator 
The LED located near the power switch has several functions: 
 Power Indicator  
 Status Indicator 
 Troubleshooter 
 Status Indicators position  Figure 13
When the unit is turned on the unit goes through a series of verifications and turns 
the LED solid green.  The unit is ready to drive Picomotors. 
If any problems are found, the LED will blink or turn on a color corresponding to 
the issue found.  Please refer to the following table and call New Focus support if 
this happens.   
CONDITION 
LED STATE 
No power applied to unit 
OFF 
Unit OK; no critical errors detected 
Solid green 
Reboot condition occurred 
Fast blinking green for 0.5 second 
Unit OK; 8758 hand control pad detected 
Slow blinking amber 
Corrupted firmware detected 
Solid amber  
Critical fault detected (e.g. over-temperature) 
Solid red 
Table 1    LED Status Indicator 
Status 
Indicator 
Power 
Switch 

  Theory of Operation   27    27 27 
3.4  Power Supply 
The 8742 Controller/Driver can place stress on the system power supply. The stress 
has two components: 
Inrush current: The inrush current on power-up charges the internal filter 
capacitor. While the energy magnitude of the inrush current is limited, it can still 
cause problems with power supplies not designed to handle it. 
Dynamic load: Dynamic current is supplied to the 8742 internal power supply for 
each Picomotor drive pulse. The input-filter capacitor will supply more dynamic 
current as the resistance between the capacitor and system power supply increases. 
Do not increase this resistance: it will increase ripple-current stress on the internal 
input-filter capacitor, leading to early failure of the Model 8742. The best strategy is 
to keep the resistance between the power supply and the 8742 below 0.1 Ω and use 
the power supply recommended by New Focus that came with the 8742 
Controller/Driver.  
3.4.1 Fault Protection 
The 8742 Controller/Driver incorporates circuit-protection schemes to protect itself 
and the system power supply: 
Over-voltage protection: If the power input voltage exceeds 16.7 to 18.5 V, a 
transient voltage suppressor (TVS) shunts the power input to ground. The internal 
2.5 A fuse will then open. The TVS will also shunt the power input to ground if an 
internal fault shorts any high voltage to the power input. The input fuse will also 
open if the input power voltage is reversed. Brief power supply transients will not 
blow the fuse. Therefore, it is highly recommended to use the correct New Focus-
supplied power supply. If the fuse was blown, the unit has to be serviced by New 
Focus.  It is not user replaceable. 
Over-temperature protection: If the base plate of the unit reaches 80 °C, the unit 
will turn the status indicator solid red to tell the user that the base plate, which acts 
as a heatsink, reached the maximum allowed temperature.  The user is expected to 
take some measures like decreasing the pulse rate, force-air cool the 8742 case, or 
use an extra heatsink.  If the case temperature continues to rise, at 85 °C the output 
will be turned off.  The output will remain off until the base plate temperature 
decreases to 75 °C, when the output will be ready to drive the motor again.  In that 
case the status indicator will turn solid green to indicate that the normal operation 
has resumed (see Table 1). If left unattended, the unit will protect itself cycling 
between 85 °C and 75 °C.  
The unit does not need an extra heatsink in normal laboratory environment.  
However, if forced cooling is needed, usually at high ambient temperatures, a 
heatsink can be mounted using the 4 slots of the unit base (see Figure 14).  

28  Theory of Operation 
 Heatsink mounting slots  Figure 14
3.5  Input / Output Connections 
Figure 14 shows the 8742 input and output connections. 
Communication Interfaces:  USB, Ethernet, RS-485 (2) 
 Power Inputs:  +12VDC (2) 
Picomotor Interfaces:  4 
The following figure shows the position of the inputs and outputs as well as the 
power switch. 
 8742 Inputs and Outputs Figure 15
A heatsink 
can be 
mounted 
using these 
slots 

  Theory of Operation   29    29 29 
3.5.1 USB 
The USB input is a Micro-AB connector.  Use a Micro-B to USB-A cable to connect 
the 8742 Controller/Driver to a computer. 
3.5.2 Ethernet 
The Ethernet input is a standard RJ-45 connector.  Use a Cat 5 Ethernet cable to 
connect the 8742 Controller/Driver to a router, an Ethernet switch, or a computer. 
3.5.3 RS-485 
There are two RS-485 connectors that accept standard 3.5mm stereo plugs.  The two 
connectors are connected in parallel inside the Model 8742.  (The wiring convention 
is TIP = D+, RING = D-, SLEEVE = GND.)  These connections are used to simplify 
the wiring between an external computer and multiple 8742 or 8743-CL 
Controller/Driver units.   
See Section 4.7.3 Using RS-485 LAN to Daisy-Chain  and Section 5.5 RS-485 
Communication for more information on setting up these configurations.  See the 
Accessories Section 2.4 for information on an RS-485 cable that will facilitate 
normal multi-unit linking. 
3.5.4  Power 
There are two power inputs that can take a standard barrel connector with the output 
diameter 5.5 mm and internal diameter 2.1 mm.  The provided power supply can be 
plugged in either of these two connectors.  The other connector is used to link the 
power supply to another 8742 Controller/Driver.  See the Accessories Section 2.4 
for information on the Power supply link cable.  
Use the power switch to turn the unit ON and check the LED status as described in 
Section 3.3. 
3.5.5  Picomotor Interfaces 
Each 8742 can drive up to 4 Picomotors, one motor at a time. Before connecting, 
inspect the Picomotor cables, connectors and generally their integrity. The 
Picomotors will receive high voltage pulses that can be dangerous if wires are 
exposed.  Contact New Focus if you see any problems. 
Do not connect anything else to the 8742 outputs. The Controller/Driver is designed 
to handle only New Focus standard Picomotors.  If the output is shortened or 
otherwise misused, an internal component will open and the unit will have to be 
serviced.   

30  Theory of Operation 
3.6  Mounting the unit 
8742 may be set on a table top. 
While not required, the 8742 can be bolted to the table top in either horizontal or 
vertical orientation. 
Under conditions of extreme usage, the case temperature of the Model 8742 may 
exceed the levels considered safe by various international safety conventions.  If 
such use is anticipated, the user must position, or block access to, the unit so that the 
unit cannot be accidentally touched. 

4  Initial Setup 
4.1  Introduction 
This section contains information on how to connect the 8742 Controller/Driver to 
your local line voltage and how to connect the Picomotor to the controller.  It also 
includes a discussion about the remote interface and the instrument’s power-up.  
4.2  Grounding 
Connect the 8-32 grounding screw to a good earth ground using a dedicated wire of 
at least 20AWG diameter.  See Section 1.4 for advice on making this connection 
4.3  Power 
Make sure that that power switch is in the off position.  Connect the external power 
supply to AC and connect the power barrel plug into one of the 8742 power inputs.  
If more than one unit needs to be connected to the same power supply use the power 
link cable to daisy-chain them.  Up to 3 units can be powered by one power supply.  
4.4  Connecting 8742 to a Computer via USB  
The 8742 Controller/Driver can be connected to a computer with a standard Micro-B 
to USB-A cable.  If several 8742 units have to be connected to the same computer 
the user can connect them to a USB hub and then connect the hub to the computer 
USB input.  Alternatively, the first unit can be connected to the computer with 
subsequent units daisy-chained as described in Section 4.7.3 Using RS-485 LAN to 
Daisy-Chain. 

32  Initial Setup 
4.5  Connecting 8742 to a Computer via Ethernet  
4.5.1 Connecting to a Router 
The 8742 Controller/Driver can be connected to an Ethernet Router. Attach the 
computer Ethernet cable to the same router.  If desired, the router can be attached to 
a WAN (Wide Area Network) so that the computer can also be connected to 
internet, or company network.   
By default, the 8742 Controller/Driver is set for DHCP (Dynamic Host 
Configuration Protocol).  This means that, when connected to a router which is set in 
DHCP mode, the router will automatically assign it a local IP address from the 
router address pool.  The computer will also receive a local IP address.  The IP 
address normally will be in the range of 192.168.1.1 to 192.168.255.255.  Check 
your router settings to verify the IP address pool.  
As soon as both units, 8742 and computer, are connected to the router the Picomotor 
Controller/Driver is ready to communicate with the computer.  The discovery utility 
will automatically find the IP address of the 8742 Controller/Driver and the user can 
start sending commands to the unit.  See Section 5 for details.  
If several 8742 units have to be connected to the same computer the user can 
connect them individually to an Ethernet hub or router. Alternatively, the first unit 
can be connected to the router (or computer) with subsequent units daisy-chained as 
described in Section 4.7.3 Using RS-485 LAN to Daisy-Chain. 
4.6  Picomotor Connections 
Each Model 8742 controller/driver can control one of four 4-pin RJ-22 single output 
ports for use with any single-channel Picomotor actuator at any given time.   
RJ-22 motor connector pinouts are as follows: 
Pin-1     Not Connected 
Pin-2    Ground 
Pin-3    Motor 
Pin-4    Ground 
The model 8725 multi-axis adapter can be used to connect the 4-pin RJ-22 output 
ports to New Focus™ Picomotor products with 6-pin RJ-11 connectors.   

34  Initial Setup 
4.7.1 Using USB Hubs 
Each 8742 Controller/Driver in the stack can be connected to a USB hub. Connect 
the hub to a computer and launch the Picomotor Application provided on the USB 
Flash Drive.  The application will automatically discover and display the 8742 units 
and make them available for control. 
 Connecting four units to a computer via a USB hub Figure 18

  Initial Setup   35    35 35 
4.7.2 Using Ethernet Routers/Switchers  
If several 8742 units need to be controlled via Ethernet, connect them to a router at 
the LAN (Local Area Network) ports.  The router will assign an IP address to each 
8742 Controller/Driver.  Connect a computer to the same router at one LAN port. 
Use the Picomotor Application provided on the USB Flash Drive to discover and 
establish a connection to each 8742 unit.  
 Connecting three units to a computer via an Ethernet Figure 19
router 

36  Initial Setup 
4.7.3 Using RS-485 LAN to Daisy-Chain 
If several 8742 units need to be controlled via Ethernet or USB, they do not all have 
to be connected directly to an Ethernet Switch or USB Hub.  Instead, a single unit 
can act as a gateway by connecting it to the Router, Switch, or Hub and also 
connecting it to the remaining units using a half-duplex RS-485 LAN bus.  In these 
configurations, the “Gateway” unit, henceforth referred to as the Master Controller, 
will be a bus master while the other units will be slaves. 
To facilitate these connections, each 8742 has two 3.5mm phone jacks connected in 
parallel.  The wiring convention is TIP is D+, RING is D-, and SLEEVE is ground.   
The normal convention with RS-485 is a daisy-chain configuration of devices; a 
“STAR” configuration is not supported.  A nominally 100-ohm resistance is applied 
between the D+ and D- wires at each end of the bus, but not at the units in the 
middle of the bus.  To simplify implementation of these bus termination resistances, 
the 8742 applies a 100-ohm termination between the D+ and D- wires UNLESS a 
plug is inserted into BOTH of the 3.5mm jacks.  In other words, the two 3.5mm 
jacks in the 8742 each have integrated switches that go open-circuit when a plug is 
inserted into the connector.  The switches in the two jacks are connected in parallel, 
as are the TIP, RING, and SLEEVE connections.  Thus, the termination will be 
applied between the D+ and D- wires at each end of the daisy-chain.  Units in the 
middle of the daisy-chain will not apply their termination resistances because both 
of their jacks will be occupied. 
 Connecting four units to a computer via RS-485 LAN Figure 20

  Initial Setup   37    37 37 
This product’s RS-485 LAN implementation is a multidrop, half-duplex, 2-wire, 
differential signaling, balanced line over twisted pair setup.  Hence, 1.2 km (~4K 
feet) distance is theoretically possible. 
Note that it is possible to use an off-the-shelf third party RS-485 converter/adapter to 
connect into the controller’s RS-485 LAN as an alternative to USB or Ethernet 
connectivity.  However, the Picomotor Windows application and software support 
will not detect the controller’s presence in this configuration and, therefore, user 
developed software will be required to make it communicate with the PC. 
Applications handling the RS-485 bus terminations externally can cause a unit at the 
end of the daisy-chain to disconnect its internal termination by inserting an 
unconnected 3.5mm plug into the otherwise unused jack. 
For more details on RS-485 LAN communication please see Section  5.5. 
 Connecting four units to a computer via RS-485 Figure 21
adapter 

38  Initial Setup 
4.8  Connecting to the 8758 Hand Control Pad 
The model 8758 hand control pad facilitates local (non-computer) control of positioners connected to 
8742 Picomotor controllers. It draws its electrical power from the Picomotor controller via USB 
interface and, hence, does not require a separate power supply. 
IMPORTANT: 8742 controller must run firmware version 2.2 (or later) to be compatible 
with the 8758 hand control pad. 
NOTE: Read the 8758 User’s Manual completely before connecting it to the 8742 controller. 
The 8758 hand control pad connects directly to the 8742 controller’s USB port. Therefore, only the 
controller’s Ethernet and RS-485 port will be available for computer interfacing, if needed. 
 Single Controller Setup Figure 22

  Initial Setup   39    39 39 
The 8758 hand control pad is capable of interfacing with up to 31 Picomotor controllers when 
configured in the RS-485 daisy-chained “Master/Slave” setup shown below.  
The controller that has the 8758 connected to it automatically becomes the designated Master 
Controller. A Master Controller initiates and arbitrates RS-485 communication to all Slave controllers 
on behalf of the 8758 hand control pad or PC. 
To avoid RS-485 LAN message conflicts only one(1) network Master is allowed. Therefore, only the 
8758 designated LAN Master Controller is permitted to connect to a PC via its available Ethernet 
port, if computer communication is also desired.  
NOTE: Picomotor controllers will only execute move commands from one source (8758 or 
PC) at any given time.  
NOTE: Do not connect the PC to any Slave controller’s USB, Ethernet, or RS-485 port. 
Only connect the PC to the Master controller. 
 Multiple Controller Setup Figure 23

5  Computer Interfacing 
5.1  Introduction  
The Model 8742 Controller/Driver has two computer interface ports: USB-Device 
and Ethernet.  All commands for the 8742 Controller/Driver are device dependent 
commands.   
Please see the General Guidelines sections for using either the USB (Section 5.3), or 
Ethernet (Section Error! Reference source not found.) interfaces.  These sections 
include important information on using these interfaces properly.  
5.2  Computer Interface Terminology 
Key abbreviations and concepts used in the command reference section of this 
manual are listed below:  
<CR> Carriage Return  
The ASCII decimal “13” byte.  
<LF> Line Feed  
An ASCII decimal “10” byte.  
<NL> New Line  
Whitespace  
Optional between commands and between parameters.  Whitespace is any character 
with a binary value less than or equal to an ASCII space character (except the <NL> 
character ).  
Numerical types  
Numerical parameters are passed and returned as the actual ASCII characters in the 
string representation of the number.  The 8742 Controller/Driver Series instrument 
accepts numeric values in decimal format only.  
5.3  USB Communication  
Before connecting the controller to a host PC using a standard Micro-B to USB-A 
cable, the user should install the application included in the USB Flash Drive that 
accompanies the Unit.  The application automatically installs the correct USB 
drivers.  Communication can be done through this interface by using the application 
or by developing software in the user’s preferred programming language.   

  Computer Interfacing   41    41 41 
The USB Flash Drive contains communication drivers and software for operating 
the controller/driver. 
5.3.1  USB Command Termination  
Commands and queries sent to the 8742 Controller/Driver through the USB port 
must be terminated by a <LF> (line feed).  
All responses sent by the 8742 Controller/Driver are terminated with a <LF> (line 
feed).  
5.4  Ethernet Communication 
The default Ethernet configuration should work for most users.  Simply connect the 
8742 controller to your Ethernet router, install and run the Picomotor application 
software that came with the product.  After a few seconds, mostly depending on 
network TCP/IP negotiation with router and/or computer, the software should 
automatically ‘discover’ the controller on the network and Picomotor control may 
begin.  Be aware the computer will not be able to discover the controller if the 
network does not have a DHCP server (included in most routers) because the 8742 
does not support auto-negotiation of IP addresses. If the network lacks a DHCP 
server, the 8742 must be configured for static IP addressing.  
This controller supports the following network protocols: IP, TCP, UDP, ICMP, 
DHCP, PPP, ARP.  Additionally, Sockets interfacing is supported.  Note that the 
8742 server can handle up to 4 sockets. 
The 8742 provides various commands to help setup and tailor Ethernet 
communication to most needs.  (See below)   
COMMAND 
DESCRIPTION 
GATEWAY 
Default gateway address 
GATEWAY? 
Default gateway address 
query 
HOSTNAME 
Hostname 
HOSTNAME? 
Hostname query 
IPADDR 
IP address 
IPADDR? 
IP address query 
IPMODE 
IP mode 
IPMODE? 
IP mode query 
MACADDR? 
MAC address query 
NETMASK 
Network mask address 
NETMASK? 
Network mask address query 
Table 2    Ethernet Related Commands 

42  Computer Interfacing 
5.4.1 Ethernet Dynamic and Static IP Address Setup 
Use the Picomotor Controller Software Application to access the Ethernet setup 
window, as shown in Figure 31.  
Alternatively, you can use the IPMODE command to setup either Dynamic or Static 
IP mode 
The IP mode command (IPMODE) is used to set the controller’s IP mode.  In order 
for this setting to take effect, please save this setting in the controller’s non-volatile 
memory and reset the controller. 
As the name implies, Static IP addresses are the same every time you connect. 
Dynamic IP addresses may change each time you connect to the Ethernet Local Area 
Network. Dynamic IP addresses are the normal customer access method used by 
most ISPs or Service Providers and this is the default IP mode for this product. 
When your 8742 controller is configured for Dynamic IP addressing, upon power up 
or connection to the LAN it will automatically send a message to every device on 
the network and ask if the other device(s) are DHCP servers.  (There should be 
exactly one DHCP server on the network.)  The non-DCHP server devices will 
ignore the message; the only DCHP server on the network will respond to the 8742 
with a "use IP address xx.xx.xx.xx" message.  The 8742 will then begin using this IP 
address. 
When your 8742 controller is configured for Static IP addressing, upon power up it 
will retrieve its previously-stored IP address from non-volatile memory within the 
8742 and begin using this IP address. 
NOTE:  Send Ethernet commands via USB interface as Ethernet 
communication may become unstable during Ethernet settings configuration.  
While connected via USB, use the Picomotor application software to send 
commands (Go to ‘Terminal’ tab). 
5.4.2 Using a Static IP Address 
For those who can make changes to the router through its configuration 
software 
The preferred method is to use the Picomotor Controller Software Application to 
access the Ethernet setup window, as shown in Figure 31, to setup the static IP 
Address, Gateway and Subnet mask.  

  Computer Interfacing   43    43 43 
Alternatively, you can send commands to the controller to set up your system for use 
with a static IP address as follows: 
1. In the router configuration software, reserve an IP address for the picomotor 
controller.  Try to reserve an IP address outside of the range used by the DHCP 
server because this will eliminate the possibility of address conflicts now and in 
the future. 
2. Set the picomotor controller to use a static IP addressing by sending the 
“IPMODE 0” command. 
3. Set the 8742 controller's static IP address to the reserved value by sending 
"IPADDR xx.xx.xx.xx: where  xx.xx.xx.xx is the reserved value. 
4. Send "GATEWAY xx.xx.0.0" (where the first two octets match those of the 
IPv4 Address). 
5. Send "NETMASK 255.255.255.0.   
6. Send the "SM" command to the controller to save the information entered. 
7. Send the "RS" command to reset the controller so that all entered information 
will take effect. 
For those who cannot make changes to the router or for a peer to peer 
connection 
Note: When the Peer-to-Peer Ethernet connection is used, the 8742 controller must 
be set for Static IP. DHCP Auto-negotiation of IP addresses (without a DHCP server 
in the network) is not supported.  
1. Open a DOS command window and run “IPCONFIG”. 
Ethernet adapter Local Area Connection: 
   Connection-specific DNS Suffix  . : 
   Link-local IPv6 Address . . . . . :  
   IPv4 Address. . . . . . . . . . . : 192.168.1.123 
   Subnet Mask . . . . . . . . . . . : 255.255.255.0 
   Default Gateway . . . . . . . . . : 192.168.1.1 
2. Note the first two octets of the IPv4 Address of the PC (192.168 in the example 
above). 
3. Set the picomotor controller to use a static IP address by sending the “IPMODE 
0” command. 

44  Computer Interfacing 
4. Send “GATEWAY 192.168.0.0” (where the first two octets match those of the 
IPv4 Address or the host address from the log file (“CreateUDPSockets: Host 
Address = 192.168.1.123”). 
5. Send “NETMASK 255.255.0.0”. 
6. Set the static IP address by sending “IPADDR 192.168.1.150” (where the first 
two octets match those of the IPv4 Address or the host address from the log file 
(“CreateUDPSockets: Host Address = 192.168.1.123”).  If the host address is 
being automatically generated by a DHCP server then try to select a static IP 
address outside of the range used by the DHCP server because this will 
eliminate the possibility of address conflicts now and in the future. 
7. Send the “SM” command to the picomotor controller to save the information 
entered. 
8. Send the “RS” command to reset the controller so that all entered information 
will take effect. 
For more information, see the following links: 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Default_gateway 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IPv4_subnetting_reference 

  Computer Interfacing   45    45 45 
5.4.3 Ethernet Peer-to-Peer Cabling 
Peer-to-Peer Ethernet connection means connecting your 8742 directly to your PC 
without the use of a router.  This may or may not require the use of a special 
Ethernet ‘crossover’ cable as many new computers no longer require it. 
An Ethernet crossover cable is a type of Ethernet cable used to connect computing 
devices together directly. Normal straight through or patch cables were used to 
connect from a host network interface controller (a computer or similar device) to 
a network switch, hub or router. A cable with connections that "crossover" was used 
to connect two devices of the same type: two hosts or two switches to each other. 
Owing to the inclusion of Auto-MDIX capability, modern implementations of 
the Ethernet over twisted pair standards usually no longer require the use of 
crossover cables. Refer to Section 5.4.2 for how to setup a peer-to-peer connection.  
5.4.4 Communicating Using a Hostname 
The hostname (HOSTNAME) command is used to set the controller’s hostname.  A 
hostname is a label or nickname assigned to a device connected to a computer 
network and is used to identify the device in various forms of communication.  This 
feature enables users to assign the controller a more easily identifiable name, 
perhaps linked to its actual function in an application (e.g., TIPTILT, MIRROR-2).  
This command is more common with Ethernet but can also be used with USB 
communication. 
NOTE:  Send Ethernet commands via USB interface as Ethernet 
communication may become unstable during Ethernet settings configuration.  
While connected via USB, use the Picomotor application software to send 
commands (Go to ‘Terminal’ tab). 
The default hostname for the controller is 8742-serialnum, where serialnum is the 
controller’s serial number.  The hostname can have a maximum of 15 alphanumeric 
characters.  The first character in the hostname cannot be a hyphen (“-”).  Issue Save 
(SM) and Reset (RS) commands to controller to take effect. 

46  Computer Interfacing 
5.5  RS-485 Communication  
RS-485 interface can be used to communicate with up to 31 Picomotor controllers 
(8742 or 8743-CL) that are daisy-chained, using a single USB/Ethernet connection. 
Once the desired controllers are daisy-chained using the RS-485 link cable, any one 
of these controllers can be connected to a host PC via USB or Ethernet interface.  
The controller on the network that is directly connected to a host PC is referred to as 
the “master controller”.  This controller is responsible for receiving commands from 
the host PC, and sending responses, if any, back to the host PC.   
NOTE: There can be only one master controller on the RS-485 local area 
network (LAN). 
All the controllers connected to a master controller via RS-485 link cable are 
referred to as the “slave controllers”.  There can be up to 30 slave controllers 
connected to 1 designated master controller. 
When the master controller receives a command from a host PC, it first determines if 
the command is addressed to it or if the command is addressed to one of the slave 
controllers.  If the command is addressed to it, it processes the command and sends 
any responses back to the host PC.  On the other hand, if the command is addressed 
to one of the slave controllers, it transmits the command on the RS-485 LAN.  Since 
the controller RS-485 is configured in a multidrop, parallel bus topology, all the 
slave controllers receive the command transmitted by the master controller.  Each 
slave controller then determines if the command is addressed to it, and processes the 
same if it is the intended recipient.  All other slave controllers ignore the received 
command.  If the command is a query (i.e., requires response), the slave controller 
that processed the command may transmit the response on the RS-485 LAN.  Once 
again, all the controllers on the RS-485 LAN, including the master controller, 
receive the response transmitted by the slave controller.  The master controller 
determines that the information it received on the network was a response to a 
command it had initially transmitted on the network, and sends this response to host 
PC; all the slave controllers ignore the response they received. 

  Computer Interfacing   47    47 47 
 Picomotor Controller RS-485 LAN Topology Figure 24
Note that a multidrop bus is a computer bus in which all components are connected 
to the same set of electrical wires. A process of arbitration determines which device 
gets the right to be the sender of information at any point in time. The other devices 
must listen for the data that is intended to be received by them. Multidrop buses 
have the advantage of simplicity and extensibility.  
5.5.1 Setting up an RS-485 Network 
All the controllers on an RS-485 network must have unique addresses in order for a 
host PC to communicate with them individually.  In the case of Picomotor 
Controllers, these addresses can be values (integers) between 1 and 31.  Since the 
default address of a controller is 1, users must change the addresses of the 
controllers to unique values. 
There are two (2) ways—manual and automatic—in which unique addresses can be 
assigned to all the controllers.  The manual approach involves powering ON only 
one controller at a time, connecting this controller directly to a host PC via 
USB/Ethernet, changing the address to a desired value using “SA” command, saving 
the address in the controller using “SM” command, and powering OFF the 
controller.  This process must be repeated for all the controllers on the network. 
Picomotor Controllers support a novel automatic approach that allows a master 
controller to assign unique addresses to all the slave controllers.  The automatic 
approach involves powering ON all the controllers on the network, issuing “SC” 
command to initiate scan process, and waiting for the scan process to complete by 

48  Computer Interfacing 
monitoring the scan status via “SD?” command.  Once the scan is completed, the 
master controller can be queried to find out the addresses of all the slave controllers.  
NOTE: The Picomotor Windows software application (version 2.0 and above) 
provides the quickest and easiest path to controller address configuration.  The 
user friendly software will automatically report any RS-485 address conflicts 
found and offer easy resolution options.  
The Remote Command Set chapter provides a detailed description of the commands 
used to setup the RS-485 network. 
The 8742 provides various commands to help setup the RS-485 network.  (See 
below)  
COMMAND 
DESCRIPTION 
SA 
Set controller address 
SA? 
Controller address query 
SC 
Initiate scan process 
SC? 
Scan result query 
SD? 
Scan status query 
Table 3   RS-485 LAN Related Commands 
5.5.2 Communication with a Slave Controller 
All the commands intended for a slave controller connected via RS-485 LAN must have a 
slave controller address prefix added to the command.  For example, to query the motion 
status of motor 2 on a slave controller with address 3, the host PC must send “3>2MD?” 
command to the master controller via Ethernet or USB.  In this command, “3>” is the 
slave controller address prefix.  This prefix tells the master controller that the command 
“2MD?” is intended for slave controller with address 3 on the RS-485 LAN. 
When the master controller sends a response back to host PC, it too will have a slave 
controller address prefix.  This is used to inform the host that the response came from a 
slave controller with that address.  For example, the response received by a host PC to the 
above mentioned command might be “3>1”.  This indicates that the motion of motor #2 
in slave controller with address 3 is complete. 
NOTE: RS-485 LAN transmission speed is 115 Kbit/s (~100 µs/character) 
If a command does not have controller address prefix, the master controller will assume 
that the command is addressed it and process the same. 
NOTE: The host PC is effectively the ‘master’ in the special case of direct LAN 
connection via RS485-to-RS232 adapter/converter configuration 

  Computer Interfacing   49    49 49 
5.6  Picomotor Controller Software Application 
5.6.1 Introduction 
Included with the Picomotor controller is a Windows software application to 
facilitate quick, user-friendly motion system check via controller’s USB or Ethernet 
interfaces.  This application comes on a USB flash drive or can be downloaded from 
the product’s Newport.com web page ‘Downloads’ section. 
NOTE: If you already have installed a different version of the software and 
drivers then it is recommended that you uninstall it first before installing new 
software. 
Before connecting the instrument to a host PC using a standard Micro-B to USB-A 
cable, the user should install the application included in the USB Flash Drive that 
accompanies the Unit.  The application automatically installs the correct USB 
drivers.  Communication can be done through this interface by using the application 
or by developing software in the user’s preferred programming language.  The USB 
Flash Drive contains the communication drivers and software for operating the 
controller/driver. 
 Picomotor Application Software Figure 25

50  Computer Interfacing 
5.6.2  Overview 
This Windows software application has advanced auto-discovery feature which 
automatically finds computer connected Picomotor controllers and list them in the 
“Device Tree” window.  So called ‘Slave’ controllers (devices) connected via RS-
485 LAN are listed immediately underneath and shifted to the right of ‘Master’ 
controllers which have direct computer connection.  The user can then select the 
controller to operate.  Also, near the upper right area of the application the user can 
select which specific motor (1, 2, 3 or 4) to control. 
NOTE: In the device tree window, the software will show the address (1-31) to 
the right of each controller’s model number/serial number information in 
parenthesis only when controllers are connected together via RS-485 LAN.  
 Controller Address Identification Figure 26
At the bottom of the application is a “Message” window where application and 
controller generated messages are shown (e.g., error messages, status).   
Additionally, at the very bottom of the application is a connection status indicator 
which lets the user know when the application is actively communicating with a 
controller.  
There are three(3)  main application views or tabs: (1) Jog tab, (2) Cycle tab, and (3) 
Terminal tab. 
The Jog tab allows a user to “jog” a motor forward or backward in predefined 
“relative” displacements or in “free run” (continuous) moves, depending on mode 
selected.  In this tab view one can also move to an “absolute” target position. 
In the Cycle tab, a user can enter two “absolute” position destinations to have the 
Picomotor cycle between these two points with programmable dwell time between 
stops and optional number of cycles limit.  
The Terminal tab allows users familiar with the controller’s ASCII commands to 
manually type and send commands to the controller, thereby offering maximum 
flexibility and control.  
Additionally, there are File, View, Setup, and Help menus selections at top of 
application screen.  
Most notably the Setup/Controller menu selection allows the user to set motor 
velocity, acceleration, and motor type for each axis.  The parameters shown on the 

  Computer Interfacing   51    51 51 
pop-up window represent the settings read from the controller’s memory.  Clicking 
‘Apply’ button will immediately send the updated parameters to the controller and 
save them in its non-volatile memory.  The ‘OK’ buttons does the same action as 
‘Apply’ plus it then closes the Setup window. 
 Jog Tab Figure 27
Jog Motion and General Overview 

52  Computer Interfacing 
 Cycle Tab Figure 28
Cycle Motion 

  Computer Interfacing   53    53 53 
 Terminal Tab Figure 29
Command Line Terminal 

54  Computer Interfacing 
 Controller Setup Window Figure 30
Controller Setup 
Select 
Motor 
Type 
Velocity 
Box 
Click Setup, 
Controller to 
select the 
motor type, 
velocity and 
acceleration 

  Computer Interfacing   55    55 55 
 Ethernet Setup Window Figure 31
Ethernet Setup 
You have the 
option to give 
your 
controller a 
different 
name  
In Static Mode 
set the IP 
Address, 
Subnet mask 
and Default 
gateway 
Click Setup, 
Ethernet to 
select 
Dynamic or 
Static Mode. 

56  Computer Interfacing 
 Options Window Figure 32
Connection Options Setup 

  Computer Interfacing   57    57 57 
 Properties Window Figure 33
USB and Ethernet Properties 

58  Computer Interfacing 
 Controller Scan Figure 34
Scan RS-485 LAN 

  Computer Interfacing   59    59 59 
 Address Conflict Resolution Window Figure 35
Automatic Address Conflict Resolution 

60  Computer Interfacing 
 Device Address Window Figure 36
View/Change Controller Address 

  Computer Interfacing   61    61 61 
5.6.3  Embedded Dynamic HTTP Server 
It is also possible to communicate to the controller via its Ethernet interface through 
a computer’s web browser (e.g., Safari, Chrome, Internet Explorer).  Once you know 
the controller’s IP address, which can be gotten from the Ethernet Properties view in 
the Windows Application (see previous page).  Enter the IP address in the browser’s 
address bar and this will take you to the controller’s HTTP server page. 
This advanced controller has an embedded HTTP server which generates a dynamic 
Web page to accept command line input and show immediate response. 
 Internet Browser View Figure 37
Chrome Browser (v22) running on Windows 7 
Embedded Dynamic HTTP Server 

62  Computer Interfacing 
5.7  LabVIEWTM and C# Programming Support 
Detailed LabVIEW and C# programming instructions are discussed in a separate 
document named “Picomotor Samples.pdf” (Typically installed in the following 
folder C:\Program Files\New Focus\Picomotor Application\Docs)  
Additionally, sample code is found in the “Samples” folder (Typically installed in 
the following folder C:\Program Files\New Focus\Picomotor Application\Samples) 
5.7.1 Introduction 
The programming samples are divided into two folders:  C# and LabVIEW.  
These two folders contain samples that have been developed in the C# 
programming language and the LabVIEW programming language. 

6  Remote Command Set 
6.1  Command Syntax 
The 8742 Controller/Driver utilizes an ASCII command set and also outputs system 
status in ASCII format. Commands may be either upper or lower case characters. 
The diagram below illustrates the 8742 controller command syntax.  As indicated in 
this diagram, a valid command consists of three main fields.  The first field consists 
of a numerical parameter “xx”, the second field consists of a two letter ASCII 
mnemonic, and the third field consists of numerical parameter “nn”.  The command 
is finally terminated by a carriage return.  For example, 3PA10 is a valid command. 
If a command does not require parameter “xx” and/or parameter “nn”, that field may 
be skipped by leaving a blank character (space).  For example, 1DH, and VE? are 
valid commands. 
Multiple commands can be issued on a single command line by separating the 
commands with a semi-colon (;).  For example, “3VA1500; 3PA1000” is a valid 
command line.  If a command line has multiple query commands, the response string 
from the controller will have responses to all the query commands in the command 
line.  Each response in the response string will be separated by a semi-colon.  For 
example, the response to “3VA?; 3AC?” command can be “2000; 30000”.  In this 
example, the value 2000 is a response to 3VA? command, and the value 30000 is a 
response to 3AC? command. 
 Command Syntax Diagram Figure 38

64  Remote Command Set 
6.1.1 RS-485 Command Syntax 
The command syntax for communicating with controllers on an RS-485 network is 
very similar to communicating with them directly using USB/Ethernet interface with 
the following exceptions. 
1.  All the commands intended for a slave controller must have a slave 
controller address prefix added to the command.  For example, to query 
the motion status of motor 2 on a slave controller with address 3, the host 
PC must send “3>2MD?” command to the master controller.  In this 
command, “3>” is the slave controller address prefix.  This prefix tells 
the master controller that the command “2MD?” is intended for slave 
controller with address 3. 
2. When the master controller sends a response back to host PC, it too will 
have a slave controller address prefix.  This is used to inform the host 
that the response came from a slave controller with that address.  For 
example, the response received by a host PC to the above mentioned 
command might be “3>1”.  This indicates that the motion of motor #2 in 
slave controller with address 3 is complete. 
3. If a command does not have controller address prefix, the master 
controller will assume that the command is addressed it and process the 
same. 
4. Since the master controller processes one command string at a time, 
semicolon (‘;’) delimited commands cannot be sent to slave controllers. 
NOTE 
A controller command (or a sequence of commands) has to be terminated with 
a carriage return character. However, responses from the controller are 
always terminated by a carriage return/line feed combination. This setting may 
not be changed.  

  Remote Command Set  65    65 65 
6.1.2  Summary of Command Syntax 
COMMAND FORMAT     
The general format of a command is a two character mnemonic (AA). Both upper 
and lower case are accepted. Depending on the command, it could also have optional 
or required preceding (xx) and/or following (nn) parameters. 
BLANK SPACES 
Blank spaces are allowed and ignored between parameters and commands. For the 
clarity of the program and memory saving considerations, use blank spaces with 
restraint. The following two commands are equivalent. 
2   PA   1000 
2PA1000 
COMMAND LINE 
Commands are executed line by line. A line can consist of one or a number of 
commands. The controller will interpret the commands in the order they are received 
and execute them sequentially. This means that commands issued on the same line 
are executed significantly closer to each other than if they would be issued on 
separate lines. The maximum number of characters allowed on a command line is 
64. 
SEPARATOR 
Commands issued on the same line must be separated by semicolons (;). 
Multiple parameters issued for the same command are separated by commas (,). 
TERMINATOR 
Each command line must end with a line terminator, i.e., carriage return. 

66  Remote Command Set 
6.2  Command List 
The controller understands many commands. The following table lists all of them in 
alphabetical order.  It also shows whether the command can be issued while motion 
of any Picomotor is in progress or otherwise. 
Command 
Description 
Command executed when 
motion is in progress 
*IDN? 
Identification string query 
 
*RCL 
Recall parameters 
*RST 
Reset instrument 
 
AB 
Abort motion 
 
AC 
Set acceleration 
 
AC? 
Get acceleration 
 
DH 
Define home position 
DH? 
Get home position 
 
MC 
Motor check 
MD? 
Get motion done status 
 
MV 
Move indefinitely 
MV? 
Get motion direction 
 
PA 
Move to a target position  
PA? 
Get destination position 
 
PR 
Move relative 
PR? 
Get destination position 
 
QM 
Set motor type 
 
QM? 
Get motor type 
 
RS 
Reset the controller 
 
SA 
Set controller address 
 
SA? 
Get controller address 
 
SC 
Scan RS-485 network 
 
SC? 
Get RS-485 network controller 
addresses 
 
SD? 
Get scan status 
 
SM 
Save to non-volatile memory 
 
ST 
Stop motion 
 
TB? 
Get error message 
 

  Remote Command Set  67    67 67 
TE? 
Get error number 
 
TP? 
Get position 
 
VA 
Set velocity 
 
VA? 
Get velocity 
 
VE? 
Firmware version string query 
 
XX 
Purge memory 
ZZ 
Set configuration register 
 
ZZ? 
Get configuration register 
 
ETHERNET RELATED COMMANDS 
Command 
Description 
Command executed when 
motion is in progress 
GATEWAY 
Default gateway address 
 
GATEWAY? 
Default gateway address 
query 
 
HOSTNAME 
Hostname 
 
HOSTNAME? 
Hostname query 
 
IPADDR 
IP address 
 
IPADDR? 
IP address query 
 
IPMODE 
IP mode 
 
IPMODE? 
IP mode query 
 
MACADDR? 
MAC address query 
 
NETMASK 
Network mask address 
 
NETMASK? 
Network mask address query 
 

68  Remote Command Set 
6.2.1 Description of Commands 
NOTE 
Many of the commands take an axis number as a parameter (xx). For such 
commands, the valid range of axis number is from 1 to 4. 
*IDN? 
Description  Product identification string query. 
Syntax *IDN? 
Remarks  This query will cause the instrument to return a unique identification string.  This similar 
to the Version (VE) command but provides more information.  In response to this 
command the controller replies with company name, product model name, firmware 
version number, firmware build date, and controller serial number.  No two controllers 
share the same model name and serial numbers, therefore this information can be used to 
uniquely identify a specific controller. 
New_Focus XXXX vYYY mm/dd/yy, SNZZZZ 
Example  *IDN?            (Get product identification information) 
New_Focus 8742 v1.9 10/23/12 SN10001  (Controller replies with ID string) 
See Also VE? 
Model 
Name 
Firmware 
Date 
Controller 
Serial # 
Firmware 
Version # 

  Remote Command Set  69    69 69 
*RCL 
Description  Recall command.   
Syntax *RCL Bin 
Remarks This command restores the controller working parameters from values saved in its non-
volatile memory.  It is useful when, for example, the user has been exploring and 
changing parameters (e.g., velocity) but then chooses to reload from previously stored, 
qualified settings.  Note that “*RCL 0” command just restores the working parameters to 
factory default settings.  It does not change the settings saved in EEPROM. 
The parameters that can be restored are: 
1. Hostname (see HOSTNAME command) 
2. IP Mode (see IPMODE command) 
3. IP Address (see IPADDRESS command) 
4. Subnet mask address (see NETMASK command) 
5. Gateway address (see GATEWAY command) 
6. Configuration register (see ZZ command) 
7. Motor type (see QM command) 
8. Desired Velocity (see VA command) 
9. Desired Acceleration (see AC command) 
 Argument  Value     Description 
 Bin    0    Restores factory default settings 
      1    Restores last saved settings 
Example  *RCL1   (Restore from last saved settings) 
See Also SM, XX 

70  Remote Command Set 
*RST 
Description  Reset command. 
Syntax *RST 
Remarks This command performs a “soft” reset or reboot of the controller CPU.  Upon restart the 
controller reloads parameters (e.g., velocity and acceleration) last saved in non-volatile 
memory.  
 Note that upon executing this command, USB and Ethernet communication will be 
interrupted for a few seconds while the controller re-initializes.  Ethernet communication 
may be significantly delayed (~30 seconds) in reconnecting depending on connection 
mode (Peer-to-peer, static or dynamic IP mode) as the PC and controller are negotiating 
TCP/IP communication. 
See Also RS 
AB 
Description  Abort motion. 
Syntax AB 
Remarks  This command is used to instantaneously stop any motion that is in progress.  Motion is 
stopped abruptly.  For stop with deceleration see ST command which uses programmable 
acceleration/deceleration setting.  
Example  1MV+    (Move motor 1 indefinitely in positive direction) 
AB    (Abort /halt motion) 
See Also ST 

  Remote Command Set  71    71 71 
AC 
Description  Acceleration set. 
Syntax  xxACnn 
Remarks  This command is used to set the acceleration value for an axis.  The acceleration setting 
specified will not have any effect on a move that is already in progress.  If this command 
is issued when an axis’ motion is in progress, the controller will accept the new value but 
it will use it for subsequent moves only. 
Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
nn    1 to 200000  Acceleration (steps/sec2). Default = 100000 steps/sec2 
Example  2AC150000    (set acceleration to 150,000 steps/sec2) 
See Also AC?, VA, VA? 
AC? 
Description  Acceleration query. 
Syntax  xxAC? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the acceleration value for an axis. 
Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Response  Value     Description 
Value    Integer    Acceleration setting (steps/sec2) 
Example  2AC?    (get acceleration setting) 
150000   (reply; 150,000 steps/sec2) 
See Also AC, VA, VA? 

72  Remote Command Set 
DH 
Description  Home position set. 
Syntax  xxDHnn 
Remarks  This command is used to define the “home” position for an axis.  The home position is set 
to 0 if this command is issued without “nn” value.  Upon receipt of this command, the 
controller will set the present position to the specified home position.  The move to 
absolute position command (PA) uses the “home” position as reference point for moves.  
Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
nn  Integer  Home position (steps). Default = 0 steps. Valid values  
    between -2147483648 and +2147483647. 
Example  1DH    (set motor 1 counter to 0) 
2DH1000  (set motor 2 counter equal to 1000) 
See Also DH?, TP?, PA 
DH? 
Description  Home position query. 
Syntax  xxDH? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the home position value for an axis. 
Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Response  Value     Description 
Value    Integer    Home position setting (steps) 
Example  2DH?    (get home position) 
0    (reply; home position is 0) 
See Also DH, TP? 

  Remote Command Set  73    73 73 
MC 
Description  Motor check command 
Syntax MC 
Remarks This command scans for motors connected to the controller, and sets the motor type 
based on its findings.  If the piezo motor is found to be type ‘Tiny’ then velocity (VA) 
setting is automatically reduced to 1750 if previously set above 1750.  To accomplish this 
task, the controller commands each axis to make a one-step move in the negative 
direction followed by a similar step in the positive direction.  This process is repeated for 
all the four axes starting with the first one.  If this command is issued when an axis is 
moving, the controller will generate “MOTION IN PROGRESS” error message. 
NOTE:  Motor type and velocity changes are not automatically saved to non-volatile 
memory.  Issue the Save (SM) command after motor check to save all changes.  
NOTE: Here is a command sequence which disables auto-motor type detection and 
sets motor 1 (for example) to type ‘Standard’:  1ZZ1;1QM3;1SM 
Example MC    (Check all motors to determine type) 
SM    (Save new settings to memory) 
See Also  *RST, VA, SM 
MD? 
Description  Motion done status query. 
Syntax  xxMD? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the motion status for an axis. 
Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Response  Value     Description 
Value    0    Motion is in progress 
    1    Motion is not in progress 
Example  2MD?    (Get motor 2 motion status) 
1    (Returns value of 1 which means motor 2 is not moving) 
See Also TP? 

74  Remote Command Set 
MV 
Description  Indefinite move command. 
Syntax  xxMVnn 
Remarks  This command is used to move an axis indefinitely.  If this command is issued when an 
axis’ motion is in progress, the controller will ignore this command and generate 
“MOTION IN PROGRESS” error message. 
  Issue a Stop (ST) or Abort (AB) motion command to terminate motion initiated by MV 
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
nn    +    Move desired axis in positive direction 
    -    Move desired axis in negative direction 
Example  1MV+    (Move motor 1 indefinitely in positive direction) 
AB    (Abort /halt motion) 
2MV-    (Move motor 2 indefinitely in negative direction) 
2ST    (Stop motion) 
See Also PA, PR, ST, AB 

  Remote Command Set  75    75 75 
PA 
Description  Target position move command. 
Syntax  xxPAnn 
Remarks  This command is used to move an axis to a desired target (absolute) position relative to 
the home position defined by DH command.  Note that DH is automatically set to 0 after 
system reset or a power cycle.  If this command is issued when an axis’ motion is in 
progress, the controller will ignore this command and generate “MOTION IN 
PROGRESS” error message.  The direction of motion and number of steps needed to 
complete the motion will depend on where the motor count is presently at before the 
command is issued.  
Issue a Stop (ST) or Abort (AB) motion command to terminate motion initiated by PA 
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
nn  Integer  Absolute position (steps). Default = 0 steps. Valid values  
    between -2147483648 and +2147483647. 
Example  1PA+200000    (Move motor 1 to target position +200000) 
See Also MV, PR, DH 
PA? 
Description  Target position query. 
Syntax  xxPA? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the target position of an axis. 
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Response  Value     Description 
nn  Integer  Target position (steps). 
Example  2PA?    (Get motor 2 target position) 
200000   (Returns value of 200000 step target position) 
See Also MV, PR 

76  Remote Command Set 
PR 
Description  Relative move command. 
Syntax  xxPRnn 
Remarks  This command is used to move an axis by a desired relative distance.  If this command is 
issued when an axis’ motion is in progress, the controller will ignore this command and 
generate “MOTION IN PROGRESS” error message. 
 Issue a Stop (ST) or Abort (AB) motion command to terminate motion initiated by PR 
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
nn  Integer  Relative distance (steps). Default = 0 steps. Valid values  
    between -2147483648 and +2147483647. 
Example  1PR-200000    (Move motor 1 relative negative 200000 steps) 
See Also MV, PA 
PR? 
Description  Target position query. 
Syntax  xxPR? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the target position of an axis. 
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Response  Value     Description 
nn  Integer  Target position (steps). 
Example  2PR?    (Get motor 2 target position) 
200000   (Returns value of 200000 step target position) 
See Also MV, PA 

  Remote Command Set  77    77 77 
QM 
Description  Motor type set command. 
Syntax  xxQMnn 
Remarks  This command is used to manually set the motor type of an axis.  Send the Motors Check 
(MC) command to have the controller determine what motors (if any) are connected. 
Note that for motor type ‘Tiny’, velocity should not exceed 1750 step/sec.  To save the 
setting to non-volatile memory, issue the Save (SM) command. 
 Note that the controller may change this setting if auto motor detection is enabled by 
setting bit number 0 in the configuration register to 0 (default) wit ZZ command.  When 
auto motor detection is enabled the controller checks motor presence and type 
automatically during all moves and updates QM status accordingly.  
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
nn  0  No motor connected 
  1  Motor type unknown 
  2  ‘Tiny’ Motor 
  3  ‘Standard’ motor 
Example  2QM3    (Set motor 2 to type ‘Standard’ Picomotor) 
SM    (Save new settings to memory) 
See Also QM?, MC, ZZ, SM 

78  Remote Command Set 
QM? 
Description  Motor type query. 
Syntax  xxQM? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the motor type of an axis. 
  It is important to note that the QM? command simply reports the present motor type 
setting in memory.  It does not perform a check to determine whether the setting is still 
valid or corresponds with the motor connected at that instant.   
 If motors have been removed and reconnected to different controller channels or if this is 
the first time, connecting this system then issuing the Motor Check (MC) command is 
recommended.  This will ensure an accurate QM? command response.   
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Response  Value     Description 
nn  Integer  Motor type. 
Example  1QM?    (Get motor 1 motor type setting) 
0    (Return 0; no motor connected) 
See Also QM, CM, ZZ 
RS 
Description  Reset command 
Syntax RS 
Remarks This command performs a “soft” reset or reboot of the controller CPU.  Upon restart the 
controller reloads parameters (e.g., velocity and acceleration) last saved in non-volatile 
memory and sets Home (DH) position to 0.   
 Note that upon executing this command, USB and Ethernet communication will be 
interrupted for a few seconds while the controller re-initializes.  Ethernet communication 
may be significantly delayed (~30 seconds) in reconnecting depending on connection 
mode (Peer-to-peer, static or dynamic IP mode) as the PC and controller are negotiating 
TCP/IP communication. 
Example RS    (Reboot/reset controller) 
See Also  *RST 

  Remote Command Set  79    79 79 
SA 
Description  Controller address set. 
Syntax SAnn 
Remarks  This command is used to set the address of a controller.  This command is useful when 
communicating with controllers on an RS-485 network, where all controllers on the 
network must have unique addresses.  The default controller address is 1. 
Argument  Value     Description 
nn  Integer  Controller address. Default = 1. Valid values  
    between 1 and 31. 
Example  SA5    (set controller address to 5) 
SM    (save new address in controller’s memory) 
See Also SA, SC, SD? 
SA? 
Description  Controller address query. 
Syntax SA? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the controller’s address. 
Response  Value     Description 
Value    Integer    Controller address 
Example SA?    (get controller’s address) 
5    (reply; controller address is 5) 
See Also SA, SC, SD? 

80  Remote Command Set 
SC 
Description  Initiate scan process. 
Syntax SCnn 
Remarks  This command is used to initiate scan of controllers on RS-485 network.  When a master 
controller receives this command, it scans the RS-485 network for all the slave controllers 
connected to it. 
If nn = 0, the master controller scans the network but does not resolve any address conflicts. 
If nn = 1, the master controller scans the network and resolves address conflicts, if any.  This option 
preserves the non-conflicting addresses and reassigns the conflicting addresses starting 
with the lowest available address.  For example, during an initial scan, if the master 
controller determines that there are unique controllers at addresses 1,2, and 7 and more 
than one controller at address 23, this option will reassign only the controllers with 
address conflict at 23; the controllers with addresses 1,2, and 7 will remain untouched.  In 
this case, after conflict resolution, the final controller addresses might be 1,2,3,7, and 23 
if the master determines that there are two (2) controllers initially at address 23. 
If nn = 2, the master controller reassigns the addresses of all controllers on the network in a sequential 
order starting with master controller set to address 1.  In the example mentioned above, 
after reassignment of addresses, the final controller addresses will be 1,2,3,4, and 5. 
Argument  Value     Description 
nn  Integer  Scan option.  Valid values between 0 and 2. 
Example  SC0    (scan the RS-485 network but do not any address conflicts) 
See Also SA, SC?, SD? 

  Remote Command Set  81    81 81 
SC? 
Description RS-485 controller address map query. 
Syntax SC? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the list of all controllers on an RS-485 network. 
Response  Value     Description 
Value    Integer    32-bit value.  Default = 0 
 Bit#  Value     Description 
0  0  The scan process did not find any address conflicts 
0  1    The scan process found at least one address conflicts 
1  0    There is no controller with address 1 on the network 
1  1    There is a controller with address 1 on the network 
31  0    There is no controller with address 31 on the network 
31  1    There is a controller with address 31 on the network 
Bits 1—31 are one-to-one mapped to controller addresses 1—31.  The bit value is set to 
1 only when there are no conflicts with that address.   
For example, if the master controller determines that there are unique controllers at 
addresses 1,2, and 7 and more than one controller at address 23, this query will return 
135.  The binary representation of 135 is 10000111.  Bit #0 = 1 implies that the scan 
found at lease one address conflict during last scan.  Bit #1,2, 7 = 1 implies that the scan 
found controllers with addresses 1,2, and 7 that do not conflict with any other controller. 
Example SC?    (get controller address map)  
135    (reply; see above description) 
See Also SA, SC, SD? 

82  Remote Command Set 
SD? 
Description  Scan done status query. 
Syntax SD? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the scan status. 
Response  Value     Description 
Value    0    Scan is in progress 
    1    Scan is not in progress 
Example  SD?    (Get scan status) 
1    (Returns value of 1 which means scan is not in progress) 
See Also SC, SC? 
SM 
Description  Save settings command 
Syntax SM 
Remarks This command saves the controller settings in its non-volatile memory.  The controller 
restores or reloads these settings to working registers automatically after system reset or 
it reboots.  The Purge (XX) command is used to clear non-volatile memory and restore to 
factory settings.  Note that the SM saves parameters for all motors.   
 The SM command saves the following settings: 
 1. Hostname (see HOSTNAME command) 
2. IP Mode (see IPMODE command) 
3. IP Address (see IPADDRESS command) 
4. Subnet mask address (see NETMASK command) 
5. Gateway address (see GATEWAY command) 
6. Configuration register (see ZZ command) 
7. Motor type (see QM command) 
8. Desired Velocity (see VA command) 
9. Desired Acceleration (see AC command) 
Example  1VA 1750; 2VA1500     (See motor 1 & 2 velocity) 
SM        (Save settings to non-volatile memory) 
See Also  XX, *RCL 

  Remote Command Set  83    83 83 
ST 
Description  Stop motion command 
Syntax  xxST 
Remarks  This command is used to stop the motion of an axis.  The controller uses acceleration 
specified using AC command to stop motion.  If no axis number is specified, the 
controller stops the axis that is currently moving.  Use Abort (AB) command to abruptly 
stop motion without deceleration. 
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Example  1MV+    (Move motor 1 indefinitely in positive direction) 
1ST    (Stop motion) 
ST    (Stop motion on any motor that is moving) 
See Also AB, AC 

84  Remote Command Set 
TB? 
Description  Error message query 
Syntax TB? 
Remarks  This command is used to read the error code, and the associated message.  
The error code is one numerical value up to three(3) digits long. (see Appendix 
for complete listing)  In general, non-axis specific errors numbers range from 0-
99. Axis-1 specific errors range from 100-199, Axis-2 errors range from 200-299 
and so on.  The message is a description of the error associated with it. All 
arguments are separated by commas. 
Note: Errors are maintained in a FIFO buffer ten(10) elements deep. When an 
error is read using TB or TE, the controller returns the last error that occurred and 
the error buffer is cleared by one(1) element. This means that an error can be read 
only once, with either command. 
Response  Value       Description 
nn, ssss  integer, string    Error code, Error message 
Example  TB?          (Get error status) 
108, MOTOR NOT CONNECTED  (Returns motor 1 not connected error message) 
TB?          (Get error status) 
0, NO ERROR  DETECTED    (Returns no error found message) 
See Also TE 

  Remote Command Set  85    85 85 
TE? 
Description  Error code query 
Syntax TE? 
Remarks  This command is used to read the error code.  The error code is one numerical 
value up to three(3) digits long. (see Appendix for complete listing)  In general, 
non-axis specific errors numbers range from 0-99. Axis-1 specific errors range 
from 100-199, Axis-2 errors range from 200-299 and so on. 
Note: Errors are maintained in a FIFO buffer ten(10) elements deep. When an 
error is read using TB or TE, the controller returns the last error that occurred and 
the error buffer is cleared by one(1) element. This means that an error can be read 
only once, with either command. 
Response  Value     Description 
nn    integer    Error code 
Example  TE?    (Get error status) 
108    (Returns 108; motor 1 not connected) 
TE?    (Get error status) 
0    (Returns 0; no error detected) 
See Also TB 

86  Remote Command Set 
TP? 
Description  Actual Position query. 
Syntax  xxTP? 
Remarks This command is used to query the actual position of an axis.  The actual position 
represents the internal number of steps made by the controller relative to its position 
when controller was powered ON or a system reset occurred or Home (DH) command 
was received.   
Note that the real or physical position of the actuator/motor may differ as a function of 
mechanical precision and inherent open-loop positioning inaccuracies. 
 Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Response  Value     Description 
nn  Integer  Present position (steps) 
Example  1TP?    (Get motor 1 position status) 
10500    (Returns 10500; motor 1 position) 
See Also PA, PR, MV, DH 

  Remote Command Set  87    87 87 
VA 
Description  Velocity set 
Syntax  xxVAnn 
Remarks  This command is used to set the velocity value for an axis.  The velocity setting specified 
will not have any effect on a move that is already in progress.  If this command is issued 
when an axis’ motion is in progress, the controller will accept the new value but it will 
use it for subsequent moves only.  The maximum velocity for a ‘Standard’ Picomotor is 
2000 steps/sec, while the same for a ‘Tiny’ Picomotor is 1750 steps/sec. 
Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
nn    1 to 2000  Velocity (steps/sec). Default = 2000 steps/sec 
Example  1VA1750  (Set motor 1 velocity to 1750 steps/sec) 
See Also VA?, AC, AC? 
VA? 
Description  Velocity query. 
Syntax  xxVA? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the velocity value for an axis. 
Argument  Value     Description 
xx    1 to 4    Axis number 
Response  Value     Description 
Value    Integer    Velocity setting (steps/sec) 
Example  1VA?    (Get motor 1 velocity) 
1750    (Returns 1750; motor 1 velocity) 
See Also VA, AC, AC? 

88  Remote Command Set 
VE? 
Description  Controller firmware version query. 
Syntax VE? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the controller model number and firmware version.  To 
query product serial number information see *IDN command. 
Response  Value     Description 
ss    String    8742 Version 1.9 11/01/12 
        version = 1.; release date = 11/01/12 
Example VE        (Get model name and firmware version) 
8742 Version 1.9 11/01/12  (Replies with model and firmware info string) 
See Also *IDN? 
XX 
Description  Purge all user settings in controller memory. 
Syntax XX 
Remarks  This command is used to purge all user settings in the controller non-volatile memory and 
restore them to factory default settings.   
 The following parameters are affected by this command: 
1. Hostname (see HOSTNAME command) 
2. IP Mode (see IPMODE command) 
3. IP Address (see IPADDRESS command) 
4. Subnet mask address (see NETMASK command) 
5. Gateway address (see GATEWAY command) 
6. Configuration register (see ZZ command) 
7. Motor type (see QM command) 
8. Desired Velocity (see VA command) 
9. Desired Acceleration (see AC command) 
Example XX  (Purge all user settings) 
See Also *RCL 

  Remote Command Set  89    89 89 
ZZ 
Description  Configuration register set 
Syntax ZZnn 
Remarks  This command is used to configure the default behavior of some of the controller’s 
features.  It is typically followed with an SM (Save to Memory) command. 
 Bit#  Value     Description 
*0  0  Perform auto motor detection. Check and set motor type 
automatically when commanded to move. 
 0  1    Do not perform auto motor detection on move 
*1  0    Do not scan for motors connected to controllers upon reboot 
(Performs ‘MC’ command upon power-up, reset or reboot) 
 1  1    Scan for motors connected to controller upon power-up or reset 
Example:  ZZ 1; SM     (Disable automatic motor check and save to memory) 
 ZZ 3; SM    (Disable motor check on move, check motors on system reset) 
See Also *RCL, MC 
ZZ? 
Description  Configuration register query. 
Syntax ZZ? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the configuration register setting. 
 Response  Value     Description 
nn Integer  Configuration register. 
Example:  ZZ ?   (Get configuration register settings) 
  1  (Returns 1; bit-0=1 & bit-1=0; means auto motor detection on move is disabled) 
See Also ZZ 

90  Remote Command Set 
GATEWAY 
Description  Default gateway address set. 
Syntax GATEWAY address 
Remarks  This command is used to set the Ethernet default gateway address.  In order for this 
setting to take effect, please set the controller to Static IP mode (IPMODE), save (SM) 
this parameter in the controller’s non-volatile memory, and reset (RS) the controller. 
NOTE:  Send this command via USB interface as Ethernet communication may 
become unstable during Ethernet settings configuration.  While connected via USB, 
use the Picomotor application software to send commands (Go to ‘Terminal’ tab). 
 Argument  Value       Description 
address  nn1.nn2.nn3.nn4  Gateway address. (Example. 192.168.10.101) 
      nn1,nn2,nn3,nn4 can be numbers between 0 
and 255. 
Example:  IPMODE 0        (Set to static IP mode) 
GATEWAY 192.168.10.101  (Set gateway address) 
NETMASK 255.255.255.0  (Set Netmask address) 
IPADDR 192.168.1.101   (Set IP address) 
SM; RS       (Save and reset system) 
See Also IPMODE, SM, RS 
GATEWAY? 
Description  Default gateway address query. 
Syntax GATEWAY? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the default gateway address 
 Response  Value       Description 
address  nn1.nn2.nn3.nn4  Gateway address. (Example. 192.168.10.101) 
      nn1,nn2,nn3,nn4 can be numbers between 0 
and 255. 
Example:  GATEWAY?      (Get gateway address) 
192.168.10.101   (Returns 192.168.10.101; gateway address) 
See Also IPMODE, GATEWAY 

  Remote Command Set  91    91 91 
HOSTNAME 
Description  Hostname set. 
Syntax HOSTNAME name 
Remarks  This command is used to set the controller’s hostname.  A hostname is a label or 
nickname assigned to a device connected to a computer network and is used to identify 
the device in various forms of communication.  This feature enables users to assign the 
controller a more easily identifiable name, perhaps linked to its actual function in an 
application (e.g., TIPTILT, MIRROR-2).  This command is more common with Ethernet 
but can also be used with USB communication. 
 NOTE:  Send this command via USB interface as Ethernet communication may 
become unstable during Ethernet settings configuration.  While connected via USB, 
use the Picomotor application software to send commands (Go to ‘Terminal’ tab). 
 The default hostname for the controller is 8742-serialnum, where serialnum is the 
controller’s serial number.  The hostname can have a maximum of 15 alphanumeric 
characters and hyphen (“-”) character.  The first character in the hostname cannot be a 
hyphen (“-”).  Issue Save (SM) and Reset (RS) commands to controller for this parameter 
to take affect. 
 Argument  Value     Description 
name  string  Hostname 
Example:  HOSTNAME  TIPTILT-1;SM;RS    (Set hostname, save, and reset system) 
HOSTNAME?         (Get hostname) 
TIPTILT-1        (Returns “TIPTILT-1”; hostname) 
See Also IPMODE, SM, RS 
HOSTNAME? 
Description  Hostname query. 
Syntax HOSTNAME? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the controller’s hostname 
 Response  Value     Description 
name  string  Hostname 
Example:  HOSTNAME?     (Get hostname) 
TIPTILT-1    (Returns “TIPTILT”; hostname) 
See Also IPMODE 

92  Remote Command Set 
IPADDR 
Description  IP address set. 
Syntax IPADDR address 
Remarks This command is used to set the controller’s internet protocol (IP) address.  An IP address 
consists of four numbers, each of which contains one to three digits, with a single dot (.) 
separating each number or set of digits.  Each of the four numbers can range from 0 to 
255. 
 In order for this setting to take effect, please set the controller to Static IP mode, save 
(SM) this parameter in the controller’s non-volatile memory, and reset (RS) the controller 
to take affect. 
 NOTE:  Send this command via USB interface as Ethernet communication may 
become unstable during Ethernet settings configuration.  While connected via USB, 
use the Picomotor application software to send commands (Go to ‘Terminal’ tab). 
 Argument  Value       Description 
address  nn1.nn2.nn3.nn4  IP address. (Example. 192.168.1.101) 
      nn1,nn2,nn3,nn4 can be numbers between 0 
and 255. 
Example:  IPMODE 0        (Set to static IP mode) 
GATEWAY 192.168.10.101  (Set gateway address) 
NETMASK 255.255.255.0  (Set Netmask address) 
IPADDR 192.168.1.101   (Set IP address) 
SM; RS       (Save and reset system) 
See Also IPMODE, SM, RS 
IPADDR? 
Description  IP address query. 
Syntax IPADDR? 
Remarks This command is used to query the controller’s IP address 
 Response  Value       Description 
address  nn1.nn2.nn3.nn4  IP address. (Example. 192.168.1.101) 
      nn1,nn2,nn3,nn4 can be numbers between 0 
and 255. 
Example:  IPADDR 192.168.1.101;SM;RS    (Set IP address, save, and reset system) 
IPADDR?           (Get IP address) 
192.168.1.101        (Returns 192.168.1.101; IP address) 
See Also IPMODE, IPADDR, SM, RS 

  Remote Command Set  93    93 93 
IPMODE 
Description  IP mode set command. 
Syntax IPMODEnn 
Remarks This command is used to set the controller’s IP mode.  In order for this setting to take 
effect, please save this setting in the controller’s non-volatile memory and reset the 
controller. 
 As the name implies, Static IP addresses are the same every time you connect. 
Dynamic IP addresses may change each time you connect to the Internet. Dynamic IP 
addresses are the normal customer access method used by most ISPs or Service Providers 
and this is the default IP mode for this product  
Having a static IP address for your dedicated server means an IP address will be assigned 
to your server (controller) only once and that IP address will belong to your dedicated 
server forever. A static IP address will be given out to your dedicated server so that every 
time it logs in it will be using the same IP address for all of its sessions.  
 NOTE:  Send this command via USB interface as Ethernet communication may 
become unstable during Ethernet settings configuration.  While connected via USB, 
use the Picomotor application software to send commands (Go to ‘Terminal’ tab). 
 Argument  Value     Description 
nn  0  Static IP 
  1  DHCP (default) 
Example:  IPMODE 0        (Set to static IP mode) 
GATEWAY 192.168.10.101  (Set gateway address) 
NETMASK 255.255.255.0  (Set Netmask address) 
IPADDR 192.168.1.101   (Set IP address) 
SM; RS       (Save and reset system) 
See Also IPMODE?, IPADDR, SM, RS 

94  Remote Command Set 
IPMODE? 
Description  IP mode query. 
Syntax IPMODE? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the controller’s IP mode. 
 Response  Value     Description 
nn  Integer  IP mode 
Example:  IPMODE ?      (Get IP mode) 
1      (Returns 1; in DHCP mode) 
See Also IPMODE 
MACADDR? 
Description  MAC address query. 
Syntax MACADDR? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the controller’s MAC address. 
 A Media Access Control address (MAC address) is a unique identifier assigned 
to network interfaces for communications on the physical network segment. MAC 
addresses are used for numerous network technologies and most IEEE 802 network 
technologies, including Ethernet. Logically, MAC addresses are used in the Media 
Access Control protocol sub-layer of the OSI reference model. 
 Response  Value     Description 
address  nn1,nn2  MAC address. (Example.5827809, 20) 
    nn1 is Newport’s unique identifier (0x58ECE1); 
    nn2 is controller’s unique identifier 
Example:  MACADDR ?     (Get MAC address) 
5827809, 20    (Returns 5827809, 20; MAC address) 
See Also HOSTNAME 

  Remote Command Set  95    95 95 
NETMASK 
Description  Network mask address set. 
Syntax NETMASK address 
Remarks This command is used to set the controller’s network mask address.  In order for this 
setting to take effect, please set the controller to Static IP mode, save this parameter in the 
controller’s non-volatile memory, and reset the controller. 
 A netmask is a 32-bit mask used to divide an IP address into subnets and specify the 
networks available hosts. In a netmask, two bits are always automatically assigned. For 
example, in 255.255.225.0, "0" is the assigned network address; and in 255.255.255.255, 
"255" is the assigned broadcast address. The 0 and 255 are always assigned and cannot be 
used. 
 NOTE:  Send this command via USB interface as Ethernet communication may 
become unstable during Ethernet settings configuration.  While connected via USB, 
use the Picomotor application software to send commands (Go to ‘Terminal’ tab). 
 Argument  Value       Description 
address  nn1.nn2.nn3.nn4  Network mask address. (Example. 
192.168.255.0)  nn1,nn2,nn3,nn4 can be 
numbers between 0 and 255. 
Example:  IPMODE 0        (Set to static IP mode) 
GATEWAY 192.168.10.101  (Set gateway address) 
NETMASK 255.255.255.0  (Set Netmask address) 
IPADDR 192.168.1.101   (Set IP address) 
SM; RS       (Save and reset system) 
See Also NETMASK?, IPMODE, IPADDR, SM, RS 
NETMASK? 
Description  Network mask address query. 
Syntax NETMASK? 
Remarks  This command is used to query the controller’s network mask address. 
 Response  Value       Description 
address  nn1.nn2.nn3.nn4  Network mask address. (Example. 
192.168.255.0)  nn1,nn2,nn3,nn4 can be 
numbers between 0 and 255. 
Example:  NETMASK ?      (Get Netmask) 
255.255.255.0    (Returns 255.255.255.0; Netmask) 
See Also NETMASK

7  Appendix 
7.1  Non Axis-Specific Error Messages 
0, NO ERROR DETECTED 
There are no error messages in the error buffer 
3, OVER TEMPERATURE SHUTDOWN 
The temperature inside the controller has exceeded 85oC.  Under this 
condition, the controller automatically stops any motion that is in progress 
and changes the status LED color to solid RED.  When the temperature goes 
below 75oC, the controller changes the status LED color to solid GREEN.  
Motion related commands can once again be issued in this state. 
6, COMMAND DOES NOT EXIST 
The command sent to the controller is invalid.  Please check the command 
syntax. 
7, PARAMETER OUT OF RANGE 
The parameter sent along with a command is out of range. 
9, AXIS NUMBER OUT OF RANGE 
The axis number specified is out of range. 
10, EEPROM WRITE FAILED 
Unable to save the controller’s settings in its non-volatile memory. 
11, EEPROM READ FAILED 
Unable to restore the controller’s settings from its non-volatile memory. 
37, AXIS NUMBER MISSING 
The command sent to the controller requires an axis number prefix.  Please 
check the command syntax. 
38, COMMAND PARAMETER MISSING 
The command sent to the controller requires a valid parameter.  Please check 
the command syntax. 

  Appendix  97    97 97 
46, RS-485 ETX FAULT DETECTED 
A slave controller can generate this error message if the command received 
by it is incomplete; the number of bytes transmitted by a master controller do 
not match the number of bytes received by the slave controller. 
A master controller can generate this error message if the response received 
by it is incomplete; the number of bytes transmitted by a slave controller do 
not match the number of bytes received by the master controller.   
NOTE: Check for (a) improper RS-485 cable connection, (b) controller 
address conflict, or (c) prohibited multiple master configuration. 
47, RS-485 CRC FAULT DETECTED 
A slave controller can generate this cyclical redundancy check (CRC) error 
message if a checksum verification of the command received by it does not 
match the checksum computed by master controller. 
A master controller can generate this cyclical redundancy check (CRC) error 
message if a checksum verification of the response received by it does not 
match the checksum computed by slave controller. 
NOTE: Check for (a) improper RS-485 cable connection, (b) controller 
address conflict, or (c) prohibited multiple master configuration. 
48, CONTROLLER NUMBER OUT OF RANGE 
The controller number prefix is out of range. 
49, SCAN IN PROGRESS 
This error message is generated if “SC” or “SC?” commands are received by 
a controller while a scan is already in progress. 
7.2  Axis-Specific Error Messages 
Where (“x” = 1 to 4) 
x00, MOTOR TYPE NOT DEFINED 
A motion command has been issued to the controller before specifying a 
motor type.  Enable auto motor detection by setting bit# 0 in configuration 
register to 0 (refer ZZ command) or set valid motor type (refer QM 
command). 
x01, PARAMETER OUT OF RANGE 
The parameter sent along with a command is out of range. 
x08, MOTOR NOT CONNECTED 
The controller has detected that there is no motor connected to the axis that is 
either being commanded to move or is already in motion. 

98  Appendix 
x10, MAXIMUM VELOCITY EXCEEDED 
The velocity parameter specified exceeds the maximum velocity rating for 
the connected motor. 
 x11, MAXIMUM ACCELERATION EXCEEDED 
The acceleration parameter specified exceeds the maximum acceleration 
rating for the connected motor. 
x14, MOTION IN PROGRESS 
A new move is commanded while an axis is already moving. 

8  Maintenance and Service 
WARNING 
There are no user serviceable parts inside the Model 8742 
Controller/Driver.  Work performed by persons not authorized by 
New Focus will void the warranty.  
8.1  Enclosure Cleaning 
WARNING 
Before cleaning the enclosure of the 8742 Controller/Driver, the 
power cord must be disconnected from the wall socket and from 
the unit.   
The source enclosure should only be cleaned with a mild soapy water solution 
applied to a damp lint-free cloth.  Do not use an acetone or alcohol solution; this will 
damage the finish of the enclosure. 
8.2  Technical Support 
Information and advice about the operation of any New Focus product is available 
from our technical support engineers. For quickest response, ask for “Technical 
Support” and know the model and serial number for your product.  
Hours: 8:00–5:00 PST, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).  
Toll Free: 1-866-NUFOCUS (1-866-683-6287)   
(from the USA & Canada only)  
Phone: (408) 284-6808  
Support is also available by fax and email:  
Fax: (408) 980-4300  
Email: techsupport@newfocus.com   
We typically respond to faxes and email within one business day. 

100  Maintenance and Service 
8.3  Service 
Your 8742 Controller/Driver has been designed to provide years of trouble-free 
operation. Virtually no maintenance is required except for ensuring that the unit is 
not damaged, contaminated, or used in an unsafe manner.  
8.4  Obtaining Service 
The 8742 Controller/Driver contains no user serviceable parts.  To obtain 
information regarding factory service, contact New Focus or your New Focus 
representative.  Please have the following information available: 
1. Instrument model number (on the rear panel). 
2. Instrument serial number (on rear panel or bottom of enclosure). 
3. Description of the problem. 
If the instrument is to be returned to New Focus, you will be given a Return 
Number, which you should reference in your shipping documents.  Please fill out a 
copy of the service form, located on the following page, and have the information 
ready when contacting New Focus.  Return the completed service form with the 
instrument. 
8.5  Warranty 
New Focus, a division of Newport Corp, guarantees its products to be free of defects 
for one year from the date of shipment. This is in lieu of all other guarantees, 
expressed or implied, and does not cover incidental or consequential loss. 

  Maintenance and Service  101    101 101 
8.6  Service Form 
New Focus U.S.A.  
Office: 408-919-1500  
FAX: 408-980-6083 
 Name _______________________________  Return Authorization #__________________ 
(Please obtain RA# prior to return of item) 
Company ________________________________________________________________________ 
    (Please obtain RA # prior to return of item) 
Address ________________________________ ____________________Date _________________ 
Country _______________________ Phone Number ______________________________________ 
P.O. Number ___________________ FAX Number _______________________________________ 
Item(s) Being Returned: 
Model # _______________________ Serial # __________________________ 
Description _______________________________________________________________________ 
Reason for return of goods (please list any specific problems): 
