NexBot Robotics Knowledge Base

How to Install the NexBot MD132-010 Multi-Axis Servo Drive

This article provides step-by-step instructions for the safe mechanical and electrical installation of the NXB-SRV-MD132-010 multi-axis servo drive in an industrial control cabinet.

How-To Advanced Estimated time: 1-2 hours Updated: 2026-03-14 Anna Kowalski, Application Specialist

Related Products

NXB-SRV-MD132-010

Tools Required

  • Insulated Phillips head screwdriver set
  • Insulated flathead screwdriver set
  • Torque wrench
  • Wire stripper
  • Wire crimper
  • Calibrated multimeter
  • Anti-static wrist strap
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Article

This guide details the proper installation procedure for the NexBot Robotics MD132-010 Multi-Axis Servo Drive (SKU: NXB-SRV-MD132-010). Following these steps is crucial for ensuring system safety, reliability, and optimal performance. This procedure should only be performed by qualified technicians familiar with industrial robotics and high-voltage electrical systems.

Safety Precautions

WARNING: This procedure involves exposure to high-voltage components. Failure to adhere to safety protocols can result in severe injury or death, as well as damage to equipment.

  • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): Before beginning any work, completely de-energize the control cabinet and apply appropriate LOTO procedures to all power sources.
  • Verify Zero Energy State: Use a calibrated multimeter to verify that no voltage is present on the main power input terminals (L1, L2, L3) before touching any electrical components.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, insulated gloves, and arc flash protection as required by your facility's safety standards.
  • Electrostatic Discharge (ESD): The MD132-010 contains sensitive electronic components. Use an anti-static wrist strap connected to a proper earth ground to prevent ESD damage.

Prerequisites

Tools & Equipment

  • Phillips and flathead screwdriver set (insulated)
  • Torque wrench with appropriate bits
  • Wire strippers and crimpers
  • Calibrated multimeter
  • Anti-static wrist strap
  • Required PPE

Components & Environment

  • One (1) NXB-SRV-MD132-010 Servo Drive
  • Appropriate power, motor, and communication cables
  • Mounting hardware (e.g., M5 screws and washers)
  • The control cabinet must be clean, dry, and free of metallic dust or corrosive gases. The environment must be suitable for IP20-rated equipment.
  • Ensure the target mounting location meets the dimensional requirements (280 x 150 x 320 mm) and provides adequate ventilation clearance as specified in the product manual.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mechanical Installation

  1. Select Mounting Location: Choose a vertical mounting position on the cabinet's backplate. This orientation is critical for proper heat dissipation.
  2. Position the Drive: Place the MD132-010 drive against the backplate and align the mounting holes.
  3. Secure the Drive: Insert and tighten the mounting screws. Securely fasten the drive to the backplate to ensure a solid mechanical and thermal connection. Do not overtighten.
  4. Verify Clearances: Confirm that minimum ventilation clearances above and below the drive are maintained to prevent overheating.

2. Electrical Installation

  1. Confirm LOTO: Re-verify that all power sources are de-energized and locked out.
  2. Connect Earth Ground: Connect the main protective earth (PE) cable to the designated chassis ground terminal on the drive. This connection must be made first for safety.
  3. Connect Main Power: Connect the three-phase 400-480VAC input power lines to the L1, L2, and L3 terminals. Ensure connections are secure.
  4. Connect Motor Power: Connect the motor power cables from each servo motor to the corresponding axis output terminals (U, V, W) on the drive. Ensure the phase sequence is correct for each axis (Axis 1, Axis 2, Axis 3).
  5. Connect Motor Feedback: Connect the encoder or feedback cables from each servo motor to the corresponding feedback connector for each axis. Ensure the connectors are fully seated and secured.
  6. Connect EtherCAT Communication: Connect the incoming EtherCAT cable from the controller or previous network node to the EtherCAT IN port. If the drive is not the last device in the chain, connect an outgoing cable to the EtherCAT OUT port.
  7. Connect Control Signals: Connect any required control and safety signals, such as the 24VDC control power and Safe Torque Off (STO) circuits, according to your system's electrical schematic.
  8. Inspect Wiring: Carefully review all connections. Ensure that all terminal screws are tightened to their specified torque values, there are no loose strands of wire, and all cables are properly routed and secured with strain relief.

Verification

  1. Final Inspection: Perform a final visual inspection of all mechanical and electrical connections.
  2. Remove LOTO & Apply Control Power: Following all safety procedures, remove the LOTO and apply 24VDC control power to the drive. Do NOT apply main AC power yet.
  3. Check Status LEDs: Observe the status LEDs on the front panel of the MD132-010. A solid green status light typically indicates that the drive has booted correctly and is awaiting communication. Refer to the product manual for a detailed description of LED status codes.
  4. Establish Communication: From the robot controller, verify that the drive is detected on the EtherCAT network and that there are no communication errors.
  5. Apply Main Power & Test Motion: Once communication is stable, apply the main 400-480VAC power. In a controlled test mode, command a low-speed, low-acceleration move for each connected axis (J1, J2, J3) to confirm correct motor direction and operation. If any axis moves incorrectly, immediately disable power and check motor phase wiring (U, V, W).
  6. Complete Integration: Once all axes are verified, the drive is ready for system commissioning and programming.

Keywords

NXB-SRV-MD132-010 MD132-010 servo drive installation multi-axis drive NexBot Robotics EtherCAT wiring control cabinet mounting industrial robot drive 480VAC drive