1.6 Actuator

The actuator is used to lower the cantilever beam (with the sample / sample holder) onto the rotating disk.

At its neutral position, the actuator lifts the cantilever beam approximately 1cm above the disk.

When the motor starts to rotate and achieves a RPM within a specified percentage of the desired RPM, the actuator would lower the cantilever beam onto the rotating disk.

At the end of the test or when the 'STOP' button is pressed, the actuator would raise the cantilever beam back to its neutral position.

There are three buttons located at the bottom right hand corner of the test interface which allows the user to do the following:

1. "GOTO END POS [F9]" moves the acutator to its lowest programmed position and hence lower the cantilever beam onto the disk.

2. " || " pauses the actuator motion at wherever position the actuator is currently at.

3. "Linear Actuator [HOME]" moves the actuator back to its neutral position.

As of when this manual is written, the writer has found no reason to be using the above mentioned functions unless the actuator becomes stuck (covered in troubleshooting guide). It is, however, mentioned for the sole purpose of informing the reader of the functions of the buttons.