Description
Contraves AC Power Torquer Rack Power Amplifier Reference Encoder Command Servo w/Cables
The Contraves AC Power Torquer is a rack-mounted multi-axis servo power amplifier system designed to drive and control AC torquer motors in precision antenna, telescope, and rate-table positioning systems. The unit houses a full complement of plug-in front and rear modules that together handle reference signal conditioning, encoder feedback processing, command input, servo loop closure, and system status monitoring — all within a single ruggedized rack enclosure. GPIB (IEEE-488) interface is provided via the rear GPII module with MPU Reset capability, enabling integration with computer-based control systems.
Specifications & What's Included
- Type: Rack-mounted AC power amplifier / torquer drive system
- Brand: Contraves
- Form factor: Rack-mount steel enclosure on casters with leveling feet
- Front modules (5): Reference, Encoder, Command, Servo, Status & Matrix
- Reference module: INT REF, BAL, AMP, PHASE controls; NORM / 0°FBK / 90°FBK / 45°FBK / LO selector
- Encoder module: STATUS indicators (HI RES, LO RES, INHIBIT); PGM / SYS / MPX selector; AXIS 1, AXIS 2, AXIS 3, CPU indicators; CORRELATION indicator
- Command module: STATUS indicators; 9/SEC, REF, KMU controls; AXIS 1, AXIS 2, AXIS 3 outputs; RESET
- Servo module: HI RES SW, RATE TRIP indicators
- Status & Matrix module: system status and switching matrix functions
- Rear modules (6 slots — R1 through R6): ZCD (1-cycle pulse), GPII (GPIB with MPU Reset), TXA (Resolver Amplifier), Ind Amp (Inductosyn Amplifier), Res Phase
- GPIB interface: IEEE-488 via GPII rear module with MPU Reset
- Rear connectors: MIL-spec circular connectors (J1, J2, J3) plus D-sub connectors on GPII and TXA modules; INNER / MIDDLE / OUTER loop selector; NORM / BAL / NULL controls on TXA
- Cooling: large front-panel axial fan (Power Amplifier section) and rear Boxer-brand axial cooling fan
- Front panel controls: AC POWER and TORQUER pushbutton switches (red/green)
- Cables included: W73P2 to Elex cable harness, W73P1 to MTZPED & R1P1–R6P1 output harness, assorted power cables, and a power strip
- Cable connectors: MIL-spec multi-pin circular connectors (28-pin and multi-contact variants visible) and gold-pin D-sub connectors
Applications
Contraves (a Swiss precision systems manufacturer, later part of Oerlikon) produced servo drive and control electronics primarily for high-accuracy tracking and positioning systems — including radar antenna pedestals, astronomical telescope drives, and precision rate tables used in aerospace, defense, and research programs. The AC Power Torquer amplifier system functions as the power and control hub for multi-axis AC torquer motor drives, taking reference, encoder, and command inputs and delivering controlled power output to the torquer motors to maintain precise angular position or rate. The GPIB interface allows the system to be commanded or monitored by an external computer or controller. Systems of this type were widely used in ground-based tracking stations, range instrumentation radars, and large telescope mount drives from the 1970s through the 1990s. They remain relevant today in legacy antenna and telescope installations that continue to operate on their original drive hardware, and as sources of high-quality precision servo components for refurbishment or system integration projects.
This Contraves AC Power Torquer rack-mounted power amplifier has been inspected and appears to be in good used condition. It was pulled from a working environment where it was in active use. The gray steel enclosure shows normal surface wear and minor scuffing consistent with rack service use. The front module panel — carrying the Reference, Encoder, Command, Servo, and Status & Matrix modules — is intact and all modules are present. The rear module bay includes the ZCD, GPII, and TXA modules. The associated cable set with MIL-spec circular and D-sub connectors is included and shows typical handling wear on the outer jackets. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
Contraves |
Model: |
AC Power Torquer |
MPN: |
AC Power Torquer |
Type: |
Rack-Mounted AC Power Amplifier / Torquer Drive System |
SKU: |
40405 |
Form Factor: |
Rack Mount |
Front Modules Included: |
Reference, Encoder, Command, Servo, Status & Matrix |
Rear Modules Included: |
ZCD, GPII (GPIB w/ MPU Reset), TXA, Res Amp, Ind Amp, Res Phase |
Interface: |
GPIB (IEEE-488) |
Connector Type: |
MIL-Spec Circular, D-Sub |
Cables Included: |
W73P2 to Elex, W73P1 to MTZPED, R1P1-R6P1 output, power cables |
Application: |
Antenna / Telescope / Servo Positioning Control |
Seller Notes: |
Includes front and rear modules plus full cable set and power strip |
Condition: |
Used – Pulled from Working Environment |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
Switzerland |
Condition Notes: |
Contraves AC Power Torquer rack amplifier inspected and in good used condition. Pulled from a working environment. All front and rear modules present. Cable set included. Shows normal surface wear. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |