Single Phase Motor Controllers
Last Updated: January 16, 2025 Reviewed by: Jon Lowy, consulting engineer
Description
Single phase motor controllers are devices designed to manage the operation of single-phase motors. They regulate the motor's speed, torque, and direction, ensuring optimal performance and protection against potential issues such as overloads or short circuits.
Working Principle
Single phase motor controllers work by adjusting the voltage and current supplied to the motor. They can implement various control methods such as phase control, pulse-width modulation (PWM), and variable frequency drives (VFD). These methods allow the controller to precisely manage the motor's speed and torque. By controlling the electrical input, the motor controller ensures efficient operation and prolongs the motor's lifespan. They are useful because they provide precise control over motor functions, which is essential for applications requiring variable speed and torque.
Applications
Single phase motor controllers are used in a variety of specific applications. For example, they are commonly found in household appliances like washing machines and air conditioners, where they manage the motor's speed and efficiency. In industrial settings, they are used in conveyor belts, fans, and pumps to control the motor's operation and ensure smooth and efficient performance.
Advantages over other Motor Controllers
Single phase motor controllers offer several advantages over other types of motor controllers. For instance, they are typically simpler and more cost-effective than three-phase motor controllers, making them ideal for applications where high power is not required. They also provide precise control over motor speed and torque, which can lead to energy savings and reduced wear and tear on the motor. Additionally, features like soft start and braking options enhance safety and prolong the motor's life by preventing sudden starts and stops.
Limitations
Despite their advantages, single phase motor controllers have some limitations. They are generally not suitable for high-power applications, which are better served by three-phase motor controllers. Additionally, they may not provide the same level of efficiency and performance as more advanced motor controllers, such as those using digital control methods. Their simpler design can also mean fewer features and less flexibility in certain applications.
Considerations
When selecting a single phase motor controller, several factors should be considered. Initial costs can vary depending on the complexity and features of the controller. Operating expenses are generally lower than those for three-phase controllers, but this can depend on the specific application and usage patterns. Durability is an important consideration, as more robust controllers will have a longer lifespan and require less frequent replacement. Accuracy in controlling motor speed and torque is crucial for applications requiring precise performance. Finally, maintenance and replacement costs should be factored in, as these can impact the overall cost-effectiveness of the motor controller over its operational life.
from Fuji Electric Corp. of America
A high-performance, multi-functional inverter optimized for a wide variety of HVAC, Water and Industrial applications that delivers greater longevity, simplifies system design and helps reduce energy use. Utilizing FRENIC-MEGA (G2)'s customizable logic, end users can program the VFD to their unique... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- Power: 373
- AC Input: 460
- Features: Dynamic Braking (optional feature)
from RS Components, Ltd.
Schneider Electric LXM28AU02M3X [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
from PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
The A-81x series of motion controllers from PI offers a completely integrated electronics solution, with controller, drives, and power supplies packaged together in a compact 19-inch rack-mount enclosure. These controllers are designed and optimized to work with the PIglide line of air bearing... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0 to 4.0
- Product: Multi-Axis
- Motor / System: Voice Coil; DC Motors, 3-phase Brushless Motor
from RS Components, Ltd.
Schneider Electric LXM28AU04M3X [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
from PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
The A-82x motion controller series from PI offers a fully integrated electronics solution with controller, drives, and power supplies in a compact 4-U-high 19-inch rack unit. The A-82x controllers are designed and optimized for PIglide air bearing stages that are equipped with direct drive linear... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 4.0 to 8.0
- Product: Multi-Axis
- Motor / System: DC Brushed; DC Brushless; Voice Coil; Voice Coil Drives, DC Motors, and Brushless 3-phase Motors
from RS Components, Ltd.
Schneider Electric LXM28AU07M3X [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
from RS Components, Ltd.
Schneider Electric LXM28AU10M3X [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- Power: 1000 to ?
from RS Components, Ltd.
Schneider Electric LXM28AU15M3X [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- Power: 1500 to ?
from RS Components, Ltd.
Omron R7D-BP04H Servo Drive [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- DC Input: 240
- AC Input: 240
from RS Components, Ltd.
Omron R88D-1SN02H-ECT Servo Drive [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
from RS Components, Ltd.
Omron R88D-1SN04H-ECT Servo Drive [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
from RS Components, Ltd.
Schneider Electric LXM32MU60N4 [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Power: 500 to ?
from RS Components, Ltd.
Siemens 6SL3210-5FB10-1UF2 Servo Drive [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Power: 100 to ?
from RS Components, Ltd.
Siemens 6SL3210-5FB10-2UF2 Servo Drive [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Power: 200 to ?
from RS Components, Ltd.
Siemens 6SL3210-5FB10-4UF1 Servo Drive [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Power: 400 to ?
from Dart Controls, Inc.
The Accu-Set is a compact, economical control that can be used with conventional AC, DC, or Brushless DC adjustable speed drive systems to provide an LED display of set speeds and precise, digital closed loop motor speed control. An on-board microprocessor with non-volatile memory coupled with... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed; Silicon Controlled Rectifier Drive
- Motor / System: DC Brushless; DC Servo; AC Servo
from item America, LLC
Controllers ensure a perfect response from item servomotors. Three power stages for single-phase operation are available to suit different loads. item MotionDesigner ®, the online selection and configuration tool, helps tailor the Controller and Motor to the relevant transport task and ensure... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- DC Input: 60 to 380
- AC Input: 100 to 230
- Frequency: 50 Hz; 60 Hz
from Velmex, Inc.
The VXM is a high integration stepping motor controller for “plug and run ” with Velmex motor driven products. Reliable. performance is achieved with a powerful RISC Microcontroller that directly controls motor phase switching and all other. interface functions. The VXM uses an optimized... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Controller / Drive; MCU
- Motor / System: Unipolar; Hybrid; Half-Step
from Nidec Control Techniques
Commander SK is a compact, easy-to-use general purpose drive that simplifies the installation and configuration of the drive to save time, yet has the performance and depth of functions required to solve more complex applications challenges, delivering superior value and motor control. All drives in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- Motor / System: Induction; Sensorless Vector
from Aerotech, Inc.
Design Features. Networkable with any Ensemble drive to control up to ten axes of piezo and/or servomotor stages. Multi-axis Position Synchronized Output (PSO) for real-time triggering of events. High-precision 20-bit sensor resolution for capacitive sensor feedback. Thermally-stable feedback... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Resolution: 20
- Product: Controller / Drive; Multi-Axis
- Axes: 10.0
from Yamaha Motor- Robot Division
Advanced functionality allowing high-level equipment construction. Multiple robots can be operated simultaneously through the high-speed communication. Use of link among controllers makes it possible to store programs into only one controller. Newly developed algorithms achieve reduction of the... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- AC Input: 200 to 230
- Axes: 4.0
- Frequency: 50 Hz; 60 Hz
from Delta Electronics (Americas)
The VFD-C2000 series is a high-level field oriented control AC motor drive with a high-performance variable-frequency technology, FOC control. It features versatile driving controls, modular design, wide variety of applications, easy maintenance, low malfunction rate, self diagnosis and competitive... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- Axes: 4.0
- Product: Variable Speed; Inverter; Pulse Width Modulation Drive
- Motor / System: Induction; Sensorless Vector; Vector Feedback
from Sinotech
Motor controllers can be customized upon request. [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller
- Motor / System: Induction
from Pittman Motors
PITTMAN ® integrated brushless DC motor and controller packages are designed to simplify system integration, minimize interconnection cabling, and reduce or eliminate noise and motor / drive compatibility issues. [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Motor / System: DC Brushless
- Axes: 1.0
- DC Input: 11 to 52
from Power Amp Design
The PAD131 fan controller module works with all power op amps offered by Power Amp Design and may be added to the application circuit at any time. The module was designed to extend fan life and reduce audible fan noise for those power amplifier applications where maximum cooling is not required. The... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- DC Input: 5
- Axes: 1.0
- Voltage: 4.5 to 11.5
from Magnatex Pumps, Inc.
Advanced performance makes it possible to support a wide range of variable speed applications from conveyance and chemical machines to line control applications such as winding and printing machines. Improved flexibility allows users to tailor their VFD to meet their application requirements. Real... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 240 to 600
from Electro-Sensors, Inc.
MicroSpeed Controller. Features. • 0.01% speed regulation in Master Mode. • Zero cumulative error in Follower Mode. • Isolated drive reference voltage. • Incremental speed adjustment for operator control. • Diagnostics for easy troubleshooting. • DIN standard steel... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Resolution: 12
- Product: Speed Controller
- Axes: 1.0
from Ziehl-Abegg Inc.
Specification: For simple manual speed regulation 5-step transformer-based controllers for single-phase and three-phase fans are available. We supply the corresponding switchgear for multi-speed motors. Motor protection devices are available for thermal monitoring based on thermostats or thermistors... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- AC Input: 230
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- Continuous Current: 1 to 10
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
Start, stop and change the speed and/or rotating direction of reversible AC and DC motors. Variety of handle styles are available as field modifications. Magnetic chuck switches are also available. Variety of enclosures NEMA 1, NEMA 3R and NEMA 4. Easy terminal access. Heavy duty contacts. Note: To... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
from Nidec Control Techniques
Commander SK is a compact, easy-to-use general purpose drive that simplifies the installation and configuration of the drive to save time, yet has the performance and depth of functions required to solve more complex applications challenges, delivering superior value and motor control. All drives in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- Motor / System: Induction; Sensorless Vector
from Aerotech, Inc.
Design Features. High-power 6U modular drive chassis. 19 inch rack-mount design. Flexible design provides the ability to drive brush, brushless or stepper motors with the same amplifier. 5 A to 30 A peak output current. PWM or linear amplifiers. Integral power supplies. IEEE-1394 FireWire ®... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0 to 6.0
- Resolution: 16
- Motor / System: DC Brushed; DC Brushless; Permanent Magnet
from Yamaha Motor- Robot Division
Compact. Lightweight and compact design with main unit weight of 2.8kg and height of 210mm. Same price as predecessor “DRCX ”. Delivers high-performance along with sophisticated functions yet is the same price as the prior DRCX. The absolute position data hold time: 1 year. The current... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- AC Input: 200 to 230
- Axes: 2.0
- Frequency: 50 Hz; 60 Hz
from Delta Electronics (Americas)
Delta's Sensorless Vector Control Drive CP2000 Series has extended the idea of energy saving and uses this principal as the basis of its design. The CP2000 is specifically designed for applications such as air blowers, pumps and HVAC drives with its intelligent PID control providing the greatest... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- Axes: 8.0
- Product: Variable Speed; Inverter; Pulse Width Modulation Drive
- Motor / System: Induction; Sensorless Vector
from Sinotech
Motor controllers can be customized upon request. [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller
- Motor / System: Induction
from Magnatex Pumps, Inc.
Low Cost Sub-Micro VFD. Digital setting dial with integrated display, making configuration fast and easy. Control remotely or with built-in digital control. Low cost and Mitsubishi Electric quality ensure solid solutions. Magnetic Flux Vector Control with auto-tuning. Safety stop function [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 115 to 480
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
Dual voltage - 120/240 VAC, 50/60 hz. Adjustable horsepower settings. Barrier terminal strip. Packaged bridge supply (fullwave). 1% speed regulation with armature voltage feedback; ± 1/2% with tach feedback. Adjustable minimum speed (0-30% of max.). Adjustable maximum speed (66-110% of base). [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Voltage: 0.0 to 180
- Power: 187 to 1492
from Nidec Control Techniques
Commander SK is a compact, easy-to-use general purpose drive that simplifies the installation and configuration of the drive to save time, yet has the performance and depth of functions required to solve more complex applications challenges, delivering superior value and motor control. All drives in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- Motor / System: Induction; Sensorless Vector
from Aerotech, Inc.
Design Features. 3U, 19-inch rack-mount design with integral drives. Flexible design provides the ability to drive brush, brushless, or stepper motors with the same amplifier. 5 A continuous, 10 amp peak output current. PWM or linear amplifiers. Integral power supplies. IEEE-1394 FireWire interface. [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Resolution: 12
- Product: Controller / Drive; Multi-Axis
- Axes: 4.0 to 8.0
from Yamaha Motor- Robot Division
RCX141 and RCX142 united into one unit. Besides Cartesian and SCARA robots, this controller also handle a mixed combination of single axis robot FLIP-X and linear single-axis robot PHASER. The absolute position data hold time: 1 year. The current position information is monitored even during a long... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- AC Input: 200 to 230
- Axes: 4.0
- Frequency: 50 Hz; 60 Hz
from Delta Electronics (Americas)
Delta's MS300 series is a standard compact vector control drive that inherits Delta ’s superior drive technology. It supports both IM and PM motor control for application flexibility and provides STO safety mechanism. Also built-in various essential functions, including PLC capacity for simple... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- Axes: 4.0
- Product: Variable Speed; Inverter; Pulse Width Modulation Drive
- Motor / System: Induction; Sensorless Vector; Vector Feedback
from Magnatex Pumps, Inc.
The cost-effective variable speed control solution for general purpose applications. Magnetic Flux Vector Control. Auto-tuning. Selectable cooling fan operation mode. Adjustable carrier frequency (0.7kHz to 14.5kHz). Compatible with FR-PU04 user interface. UL & cUL listed / CE marked [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 600
from Nidec Control Techniques
Commander SK is a compact, easy-to-use general purpose drive that simplifies the installation and configuration of the drive to save time, yet has the performance and depth of functions required to solve more complex applications challenges, delivering superior value and motor control. All drives in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- Motor / System: Induction; Sensorless Vector
from Yamaha Motor- Robot Division
RDV-X/RDV-P Features. Dedicated pulse train control. The dedicated pulse train control has achieved a compact body and a low price. Position setting time reduced by 40%. The response frequency is enhanced about two times in comparison with former models. The position setting time of uniaxial robots... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- AC Input: 100 to 230
- Axes: 1.0
- Frequency: 50 Hz; 60 Hz
from Delta Electronics (Americas)
The VFD-EL series is multiple function new generation micro type AC drive. It has built in EMI filter, RFI switch, easy DC bus sharing for side-by-side installation, high precision current detection, overload protection, and a built In keypad. [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Variable Speed; Inverter; Pulse Width Modulation Drive
- AC Input: 115 to 480
from Magnatex Pumps, Inc.
lsquo;Big Drive ’ Vector Control Capability in a micro drive - delivering outstanding performance for a wide range of demanding loads. Advanced Magnetic Flux Vector Control gives 120:1 speed range. All capacities have built-in brake chopper. USB communications for fast commissioning. Standard... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 115 to 480
from Nidec Control Techniques
Digitax ST servo drives are optimized for pulse duty servo applications requiring high peak torque (up to 300% peak), dynamic response, ease of use and flexible integration features. Digitax ST drives are perfectly matched for use with Unimotor hd servo motors. 230V models are suitable for single... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0 to 1.5
- Product: Speed Controller
- AC Input: 200 to 230
from Yamaha Motor- Robot Division
SR1-X/SR1-P Features & Benefits. Diverse command methods. I/O assignment function. Supports complete absolute specifications. Current position output function. Torque limiter. Diverse functions. Position data output function. Torque limiting drive. Changing movement data function. Point... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- AC Input: 115 to 230
- Axes: 1.0
- Frequency: 50 Hz; 60 Hz
from Magnatex Pumps, Inc.
Built to optimize 3-phase motor control, saving energy for virtually all general purpose applications. UL Type 1, plenum rated, enclosure designs (NEMA 1). Built-in EMC filter. FR-DU07 programming dial and FR-Configurator programming software. Bi-directional coasting motor restart. RS-485... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 240 to 480
from Nidec Control Techniques
The compact, easy-to-use Epsilon EP servo drive is scalable from a simple amplifier to a completely programmable 1.5-axis motion controller capable of the performance necessary for applications that require a high degree of precision. For added application flexibility, the Epsilon EP is available in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0 to 1.5
- Product: Controller / Drive; Speed Controller; Amplifier
- AC Input: 90 to 264
from Yamaha Motor- Robot Division
TS-S/TS-X/TS-P robot positioner Features & Benefits. Simple operation only by specifying point number data. Completely applicable to absolute system. Maximum acceleration auto setting. Supports various field networks. LCD monitor showing easy-to-understand operation status display. Power supply... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- AC Input: 100 to 230
- Axes: 1.0
- Frequency: 50 Hz; 60 Hz
from Nidec Control Techniques
The compact, easy-to-use Epsilon EP servo drive is scalable from a simple amplifier to a completely programmable 1.5-axis motion controller capable of the performance necessary for applications that require a high degree of precision. For added application flexibility, the Epsilon EP is available in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0 to 1.5
- Product: Speed Controller; Amplifier; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 20 to 264
from Nidec Control Techniques
The compact, easy-to-use Epsilon EP servo drive is scalable from a simple amplifier to a completely programmable 1.5-axis motion controller capable of the performance necessary for applications that require a high degree of precision. For added application flexibility, the Epsilon EP is available in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0 to 1.5
- Product: Speed Controller; Amplifier; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 20 to 264
from Nidec Control Techniques
The compact, easy-to-use Epsilon EP servo drive is scalable from a simple amplifier to a completely programmable 1.5-axis motion controller capable of the performance necessary for applications that require a high degree of precision. For added application flexibility, the Epsilon EP is available in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0 to 1.5
- Product: Speed Controller; Amplifier; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 20 to 264
from Nidec Control Techniques
The compact, easy-to-use Epsilon EP servo drive is scalable from a simple amplifier to a completely programmable 1.5-axis motion controller capable of the performance necessary for applications that require a high degree of precision. For added application flexibility, the Epsilon EP is available in... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase
- Axes: 1.0 to 1.5
- Product: Speed Controller; Amplifier; Variable Speed
- AC Input: 90 to 264
from Nidec Control Techniques
Unidrive SP drives can be configured to operate in the following modes: Open-loop V/Hz AC drive. Open-loop Vector AC drive. Open-loop Rotor Flux Control (RFC). Closed-loop Vector AC drive. Servo for synchronous permanent magnet motors / brushless servo motors. The drives are easy to install and... [See More]
- Phase : Single Phase; Three Phase
- Axes: 1.0
- Product: Speed Controller; Variable Speed; Regenerative
- Motor / System: Induction; Sensorless Vector; Vector Feedback