Description
System Architecture & Operational Principle
The Kollmorgen CB06560 is a high-performance servo drive belonging to the ServoStar CD series, designed for precision motion control in industrial automation. It serves as the control unit in a servo system, interfacing with:
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Upstream: Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) or SCADA systems for operator input and monitoring.
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Downstream: Servo motors (e.g., Kollmorgen AKM series) via digital/analog I/O or fieldbuses (e.g., EtherCAT, CANopen).
Core Functional Blocks
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Power Conversion Stage: Converts AC input (via external power supply) to DC output using high-efficiency rectifiers and filters.
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Control Circuitry: Uses a high-speed digital signal processor (DSP) to execute vector control algorithms (e.g., PID, FOC) for precise speed and torque regulation.
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Communication Interface: Supports multiple fieldbuses (EtherCAT, CANopen, RS-485) for integration with HMIs, SCADA systems, or other controllers.
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Protection Mechanisms: Includes overvoltage, overcurrent, short-circuit, and thermal protection to safeguard the drive and connected motors.
Operational Workflow
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Input Reception: The drive receives commands from the HMI (e.g., “move robot arm to position X”) or SCADA system.
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Logic Execution: The DSP executes the programmed logic (e.g., checking safety interlocks, calculating trajectory).
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Motor Control: The drive sends voltage/current commands to the servo motor to adjust speed/torque.
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Feedback Processing: Sensors (e.g., encoders) send position/speed data back to the drive for closed-loop control.
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Status Update: The drive sends status updates to the HMI or SCADA system (e.g., “motor running at 1500 RPM”).
Kollmorgen CB06560
Core Technical Specifications
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Parameter
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Specification
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Rated Power
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400W
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Output Current
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8A (continuous)
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Working Voltage
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24V DC
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Control Mode
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Position/Speed/Torque Control
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Communication
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EtherCAT, CANopen, RS-485
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Protection Level
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IP20 (dust-protected, for indoor use)
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Operating Temperature
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-20°C to +60°C (ambient)
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Dimensions
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145mm × 224mm × 15mm (approx.)
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Weight
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~1.6 kg (3.5 lbs)
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Customer Value & Operational Benefits
1. High Precision for Critical Applications
The CB06560’s vector control algorithm and high-resolution encoder (16-bit) enable micrometer-level precision in positioning, which is critical for high-quality manufacturing (e.g., semiconductor assembly, medical device fabrication).
2. Flexible Integration with Existing Systems
Support for multiple communication protocols (EtherCAT, CANopen, RS-485) allows the drive to integrate with third-party devices (e.g., Siemens sensors, Schneider Electric actuators) and legacy systems. This flexibility reduces the need for costly system overhauls.
3. Reduced Downtime with Robust Design
The drive’s IP20 protection rating and wide operating temperature range (-20°C to +60°C) make it suitable for harsh industrial environments (e.g., factories, warehouses). The hot-swap capability (for I/O modules) minimizes downtime during maintenance.
4. Energy Efficiency for Cost Savings
The drive’s high-efficiency power conversion stage and vector control algorithm reduce energy consumption by up to 20% compared to traditional drives, leading to lower operating costs for continuous-process industries (e.g., bottling lines, packaging machines).

Kollmorgen CB06560
Field Engineer’s Notes (From the Trenches)
When installing the CB06560, always verify the input voltage (24V DC ±10%) with a multimeter—low voltage can cause the drive to reset intermittently. I once saw a technician install the drive with a 12V DC power supply, leading to hours of downtime.Check the fieldbus termination (for EtherCAT/CANopen)—improper termination can cause communication errors. Use a fieldbus analyzer (e.g., Vector CANalyzer) to verify signal integrity.Update the firmware (via Kollmorgen’s website) after installation—firmware updates often fix bugs and improve compatibility with new devices. I recommend checking for updates every 6 months, especially if you’re using the drive for critical applications.
Real-World Applications
1. Industrial Robotics: Collaborative Robot Arms
A automotive manufacturer uses the CB06560 to control a 6-axis collaborative robot arm used for assembling car seats. The drive’s high precision (±0.1 mm) ensures that components are placed accurately, reducing defect rates by 30%.
2. Machine Tools: CNC Milling Machines
A machine shop uses the CB06560 to control a CNC milling machine’s spindle motor. The drive’s fast dynamic response (≤10 ms settling time) enables the spindle to change speed quickly, reducing cycle time by 10% and improving part quality (±0.05 mm tolerance).
3. Factory Automation: Production Line Control
A food packaging company uses the CB06560 to control a production line’s conveyor belt motors. The drive’s flexible integration with sensors (e.g., photoelectric sensors) ensures that boxes are transported efficiently, reducing labor costs by 25%.


