Introduction

Equator 500 is an isomorphic amplification design of Equator 300: the two share a parallel motion structure (three linear drive struts P/Q/R, end Hooke hinge, and grating mounted on the drive strut), without screw drive, granite base, or Z-axis column; The differences are concentrated in the working volume (Ø 300 × 150 mm vs. Ø 500 × 250 mm), overall weight (25 kg vs. 74 kg), and dimensions of the base, support, and counterweight mechanism.

1. Original text: The skeletons of the two machines are the same set of self-designed structures

1.1 Officially announced component composition

The official installation and controller guide (ID 132816) provides the complete set of parts diagram for Equator. 300 and 500 share the same set of parts table, with consistent numbers and names: 1 Base casting, 2 SP25 probe assembly, 3 Floating/moving platform, 4 Support strut, 5 Top casting, 6 Drive strut, 7 Counterbalance mechanism, 8 Upper pivot and Hooke’s joint, 9 Support arm, 11 Drive housing, 12 Parallel. Constraint mechanism, 13 Fixture plate, 15 Stop button.

This component list itself is the strongest evidence: if 500 were a different design, it would not use the same numbering system, the same probe component, the same hinge form, or the same type of constraint mechanism. The whole machine skeleton is the same set – this is the criterion of “same family” rather than “two generations”.

1.2 Mechanical meaning of parallel motion structure

The Equator’s probe does not ride on a column to perform Cartesian three-axis movement, but is supported by three straight lines driving the strut together. Three struts extend and contract along their respective axes, and the platform is constrained in three-dimensional space through end Hooke hinges; The strut is only subjected to tension and compression, without bending moment, which is the core advantage of parallel structures in terms of stiffness and mass – the material utilization rate is the highest when the component is subjected to axial force, and the same stiffness can be made lighter.

The grating is mounted on the strut, which means that the driving point and feedback point are the same: the motor drives the strut, and the ruler reads on the same strut, without the links that separate “command” and “actual” such as screw torsion, belt transmission elongation, and gear clearance in between. The official description of traditional Cartesian structures relies on large granite shafts and heavy castings to maintain rigidity, which precisely introduces hysteresis and inertia; Equator takes the opposite route – using lightweight structures and metrological feedback to turn hysteresis into a calibratable and compensable quantity, and then comparing with standard parts to reset the machine’s state changes to zero.

This design concept explains an easily misunderstood point: the accuracy of the Equator does not come from “the machine making it absolutely accurate”, but from “the offset measured by the machine each time can be captured and deducted by standard parts”. The two machines have completely different sizes, and as long as this self calibration mechanism is established, the design logic is the same set. Expanding the structure by 500 is to support a larger workspace, not to replace this mechanism.

1.3 Base, support, and counterweight: enlarged three mechanical landing points

The same topology at different scales, the first to change is not the principle, but the three mechanical landing points.

The first one is the base. The base casting of 300 supports a 25 kg machine, while the base of 500 supports a 74 kg machine, plus a maximum of 100 kg of workpiece and fixture (300 is 25 kg). The weight of the workpiece is directly pressed onto the platform and base through the fixture plate, and the stiffness of the base and the area of the foot support must be increased accordingly. Otherwise, once the workpiece is pressed onto the structure, elastic deformation will occur, and the deformation amount will change with the weight of the workpiece. The calibrated offset cannot be reused.

The second part is the strut and support arm. The working volume has expanded from Ø 300 × 150 mm to Ø 500 × 250 mm, the platform stroke has become longer, and the center of gravity of the whole machine has shifted and transmitted to the support through the parallel constraint mechanism. As a result, the strut and support arm have been lengthened and thickened. 500 has a size of 1204 × 1139 × 1535 mm, while 300 has a size of 570 × 500 × 700 mm – this is not proportional enlargement: the workspace is linearly enlarged by 1.67 times, but the height of the shape is increased by approximately 2.2 times, indicating that the support and counterweight account for a larger proportion.

The third part is the counterweight balancing mechanism. Officially listed as an independent component, but the internal structure has not been disclosed. Its responsibility is to counteract the self weight of the motion platform and probe components, so that the driving strut does not have to continuously resist gravity; The probe, stylus, and clamped workpiece hanging on the platform are all changing, and the counterweight mechanism keeps both small and large loads within a reasonable range of driving capacity. The platform of 500 has a larger mass and allows for heavier workpieces, so the size and balance point of the counterweight mechanism are inevitably different – this is the most practical manifestation of “enlargement”, and the internal structure is subject to the official manual.

1.4 Neither of them is anything: First rule out three common misunderstandings

Before discussing the differences, let’s first eliminate the three most common misconceptions – they are often referred to as “structural differences between 300 and 500”, but in reality, neither of the two machines are like this.

It’s not a screw drive. The three struts are linearly driven, and the official component name is Drive strut. The grating is mounted on the struts. The whole machine does not have a link to convert rotation into a straight line, nor does it have a transmission. Any description that mentions “three-axis screw” or “synchronous belt” is not an Equator.

It’s not a granite base. The official component diagram shows Base casting and Top casting, which refer to castings. Granite is the official feature word used to compare traditional Cartesian structures, not the material used by Equator.

There is no Z-axis pillar. The Z-axis displacement of Equator is composed of three struts that work together to expand and contract, without independent vertical columns. This is particularly important when discussing the “raised type”, as will be discussed later.

After these three are eliminated, the only structural difference between the two machines is the implementation of the same skeleton at different sizes.

2. Criterion layer: Measure the difference using parameters and dimensions

2. One page parameter comparison table

The following table lists the items that can be directly read from the official data sheet for the two machines. Any numbers not listed in the data table will not be filled in this table.

Project	Equator 300	Equator 500
Working volume XY	Ø 300 mm	Ø 500 mm
Working volume Z	150 mm	250 mm
Working volume from base height	55 mm (raised type 205 mm, Z still 150 mm)	0 mm (raised type 150 mm)
Whole machine weight	25 kg (27 kg for raised type)	74 kg (75 kg for raised type)
Dimensions (width x depth x height)	570 x 500 x 700 mm (height of raised type 850 mm)	1204 x 1139 x 1535 mm (height of raised type 1685 mm)
Comparison uncertainty	± 0.002 mm	± 0.002 mm
Scanning probe	SP25 three-axis simulation scan	SP25 three-axis simulation scan
Trigger probe	TP20 (requires A-5504-0070)	TP20 (requires A-5504-0070)
Scanning rate	1000 points/second	1000 points/second (the user guide states 2000 points/second, with different calibers)
Maximum scanning speed	200 mm/s (old version file 100 mm/s)	250 mm/s
Maximum moving speed	500 mm/s	750 mm/s
Grating resolution	0.0002 mm	0.0002 mm (data sheet); 0.00001 mm (user guide), with different calibers, subject to the random file
Fixture board	305 × 305 mm aluminum, 41 holes (M6/M8/¼ “), optional 441 holes	510 × 510 mm
Maximum workpiece weight	25 kg (including fixture plate)	100 kg (including fixture plate)
Maximum power consumption/typical power consumption	190 W/80~100 W	190 W/100 W
Gas source	Not needed	Not needed
Working temperature	+5~+50 ° C (old version of Chinese specification manual+10~+40 ° C)	+5~+50 ° C
Power supply	100-240 V AC ± 10%, 50/60 Hz	Same as left

The “comparison uncertainty ± 0.002 mm” in the table refers to the comparison uncertainty, not absolute accuracy: it must simultaneously meet the three prerequisites of immediate measurement after re mastering, relative clamping position difference of parts to standard parts ≤ 1 mm, and use of certified standard parts.

Special attention should be paid to the three sets of values in the table. The first group is the weight and workpiece weight: the difference between 25 kg and 100 kg is not only four times, but also the watershed between the lifting method and the ground load. The second group is about appearance: 500 meters high, 1535 millimeters, which exceeds the shoulder line of an ordinary person standing, and “placed on the workbench” does not apply to 500 meters. The third group is speed: the increase does not double, but the time difference of a single measurement will be amplified after the stroke becomes longer.

2. What are the three geometric differences behind the two parameters

These three lines of numbers correspond to only three geometries in the structure: stroke envelope, base and support span, and scale of counterweight and constraint mechanism.

The travel envelope determines the range of extension and contraction of the strut. The XY of 300 is Ø 300 mm, Z is 150 mm, and the probe needs to be reachable throughout the entire envelope. The extension and hinge angle of the three struts are limited; Expanding from 500 to Ø 500 × 250 mm, the stroke, length, and angle range of the strut are all enlarged, and the installation position of the drive housing is also moved outward.

The span determines the ability to resist overturning. The appearance of 500 is 1204 × 1139 × 1535 mm, while 300 is 570 × 500 × 700 mm. This indicates that the base of 500 must be wider and heavier, the support arms longer, and the center of gravity must fall within a larger support polygon.

The scale of the counterweight and constraint mechanism determines how many things can still work properly on the platform. The same set of parallel constraint mechanisms has a bearing capacity difference of 4 times, and the hinge point size, strut section, and counterweight mass will not be the same. The official has not disclosed the dimensions and load-bearing capacity allocation of these components, and this article only discusses the direction.

2. Three places were mistakenly identified as differences

The first point is’ different probes’. Both units are SP25 three-axis analog scanning, and the trigger probe is TP20. Both require A-5504-0070 (A-5504-0065 is not compatible), and it is recommended that the trigger speed be 10 mm/s. There is no model upgrade at the probe level, so two units can share the same set of probes and programming ideas.

The second point is’ different accuracy ‘. The uncertainty of both comparisons is ± 0.002 mm. This is the uncertainty of the comparison, not the absolute measurement accuracy. Three prerequisites are indispensable: immediate measurement after re mastering, clamping position difference not exceeding 1 mm, and use certified standard parts. Both data sheets do not have an ISO 10360 chapter; The absolute measurement capability is only possessed by the Equator-X 500.

The third point is’ speed proportional ‘. The movement speed from 500 to 750 mm/s is 1.5 times, the scanning speed from 200 to 250 mm/s is 1.25 times, and the workspace is linearly enlarged by 1.67 times. The speed has not been proportionally increased, indicating that the kinematic parameters of 500 have been readjusted: a more conservative acceleration curve is required for large inertia.

2. Four plus high type: the number that needs to be corrected the most in this article

This is the most widely spread mistake. The official statement clearly states that the working volume of the 300 plus height model is 205 mm from the base height, and the working volume in the Z direction is still 150 mm. 205 mm is the distance from the base to the lower edge of the workspace, not the Z-axis travel.

The physical meanings of the two are completely different. Answer from the height of the base: ‘After the parts are installed on the fixture board, how high can the fixture, cushion block, and adapter board occupy?’; Z Travel Answer: “How far can the probe go up and down. The raised type solves the former without changing the latter.

So: if the problem is’ the probe cannot reach higher features’, the raised type cannot be saved, and we need to find 500 Z with a working volume of 250 mm; If the problem is’ the fixture is too high to fit into the workspace ‘, the raised type is just the right solution.

The following table breaks down this misconception into six lines:

Common sayings	Official statements	Why is it easy to make mistakes	Correct understanding
The height of the 300 plus height type Z is 205 mm	Z is still 150 mm, and 205 mm is the height from the base	treating the “height of the lower edge of the space” as the “upward stroke”	the upper limit of the measurable height remains unchanged, only the starting point of the workspace is raised
The raised type is equivalent to expanding the Z-direction measurement range	the working volume has changed from 55 mm on the base to 205 mm	the word “raised” reminds people of the lengthening of the column	the added space is for accommodating, not for probe travel
To measure height, choose the raised type	Z-directional features above 150 mm exceed the Z-working volume	ignore the constraints of the probe’s own travel	for higher Z-directional coverage, choose 500 (Z 250 mm)
The raised type only increases the height	The overall height of the machine has changed from 700 mm to 850 mm, and the weight has increased from 25 kg to 27 kg	It is believed that the raised height does not affect the structure	The structural components and support dimensions have been changed accordingly, which is a structural change
The same applies to the 500+height type	The self base height of the 500+height type is 150 mm, and the Z is still 250 mm	Blindly follow the same pattern	The 500+height type also raises the starting point of the workspace without increasing the Z stroke
The raised type and 500 are in the same category	The two solve different problems	Confuse the accommodating space and measuring stroke	The raised type solves the fixture height, while the 500 type solves the workpiece size and weight

Do you want the parts to be 500? Ask two independent questions: whether the features fall within the Ø 500 mm plane range and the 250 mm Z range; Does the total weight of the workpiece and fixture exceed 25 kg? Any capacity exceeding 300 cannot be compensated by the raised type.

2. How to measure five on site: four measurable criteria

Criterion 1: Measure the distance from the lower edge of the workspace to the upper surface of the fixture board. 300 standard type 55 mm, raised type 205 mm; 500 standard type 0 mm, raised type 150 mm. The measurement is the starting point of the space, not the stroke.

Criterion 2: Measure the edge length of the fixture plate. 305 × 305 mm is 300510 × 510 mm is 500.

Criterion 3: Measure the maximum external height of the entire machine. 700 mm is the 300 standard type, 850 mm is the raised type, 1535 mm is the 500 standard type, and 1685 mm is the 500 raised type.

Criterion four, check the nameplate and random files. The model and data sheet version number (300 for H-5504-8251 series, 500 for H-6078-8310 series) are the primary criteria for judgment. When the nameplate is missing, cross confirm with the first three dimensions.

2. The four most commonly asked numbers for the six or two machines

The first group is precision. The comparison uncertainty of the two units is ± 0.002 mm, and ‘500 is more accurate’ is not a reason for selection.

The second group is speed. The maximum scanning speed is 200 mm/s for 300 and 250 mm/s for 500; The maximum moving speed is 500 to 750 mm/s. The increase in movement speed (1.5 times) is more significant than the increase in scanning speed (1.25 times): the benefits of fast positioning are greater during long journeys, and the more times the position is changed, the more obvious.

The third group is power consumption. The maximum power consumption of both machines is 190 W, with a typical power consumption of 80-100 W for 300 and 100 W for 500. The typical power consumption of the 74 kg large machine is only slightly higher than that of the small machine, indicating that the driving method does not significantly increase in energy consumption with scale; The power specifications are consistent (100-240 V AC ± 10%, 50/60 Hz), and there is no need to redo the power distribution when switching to 500.

Putting the four groups together with “weight, size, and load-bearing capacity”, the portrait is complete: there is almost no difference between the two units in terms of electrical and gas supply, and the differences are all concentrated in the mechanical level – space, load-bearing capacity, and disassembly.

3. Disposal layer: What is the difference between the two machines during maintenance and relocation

3. Dismantling and hoisting: 25 kg and 74 kg are not the same type of operation

A 25 kg lifting machine with a capacity of 300 units is mostly used for “lifting” rather than “hoisting” on most sites, and two people can work together. 74 kg is completely different: it is still difficult and unsafe for four people to lift together, and lifting equipment or forklifts must be used. The center of gravity, lifting point, and lifting angle must be confirmed in advance. The raised type 300 is 27 kg, and the raised type 500 is 75 kg, with no change in the magnitude relationship.

A common mistake is to apply the experience of moving a machine from 300 to 500. Usually, two people lift the base and one person supports the platform, taking two steps to reach the desired position; Following this procedure, the problem lies not in the weight but in the volume – the shape of 1204 × 1139 × 1535 mm means that door openings, corners, and elevator cars may not be able to pass through, and the weight may fall when people cannot lift it. The struts and hinge points will directly bear the impact.

In terms of lifting, the on-site conditions for 500 are one level higher than those for 300: confirm the ground or table load (74 kg of complete machine plus 100 kg of workpiece and fixture, static load close to 180 kg, concentrated in a small number of support points), whether the lifting height can accommodate 1535 mm (raised type 1685 mm), and the protection of lifting straps and lifting points. The position of the lifting point and the allowed lifting method shall be subject to the official installation and controller guide (ID 132816/107657), and the selection of the point shall not be based on experience.

3. Fixture and positioning reference: The size of the fixture plate is the first boundary

The fixture plates of 305 × 305 mm and 510 × 510 mm determine the two paths for fixture design.

The fixture plate of 300 is made of aluminum with 41 holes (M6/M8/¼ “), and the 441 hole version is optional. The workspace is only Ø 300 mm, with no allowance for multi station layout. The key to the design is compactness: the positioning pin, clamping point, and avoidance groove are all squeezed into a 305 mm square.

The fixture plate of 500 is 510 mm square, with a maximum workpiece weight of 100 kg (including the fixture plate). This allows for two practices that cannot be achieved on the 300: multi station layout, placing two or more parts on the same board, and coordinating needle changes and program switching to compress idle time; Large items can be clamped as a whole without the need for disassembly and testing.

In terms of positioning reference, the two principles are consistent: the clamping position difference between the parts and the standard parts should not exceed 1 mm, which is one of the prerequisites for the uncertainty of ± 0.002 mm comparison. This pair of fixtures must have hard constraints – they must be able to be repositioned within 1 mm. A board with a size of 500 is larger, and the repeated positioning error increases with distance. Tooling usually requires clearer positioning structures (pins, faces, edges).

Another easily overlooked point is that the 500 mark is “100 kg (including fixture board)”, and the fixture board itself occupies a portion of the quota; 25 kg of 300 is the maximum weight of the workpiece. The weight of the tooling must be included in the calculation, and the actual weight of the fixture plate shall be based on the official data sheet.

3. Three sensors and grating layout: same principle, different scales

Both gratings are mounted on struts, with the driving point and feedback point being the same source, without passing through a transmission link in between.

The grating resolution of 300 is 0.0002 mm, and the data table aperture is clear. The caliber of 500 varies between official documents: data sheet 0.0002 mm, usage guide 0.00001 mm, with a difference of 20 times. This article is not referenced separately and must be written with the annotation ‘subject to random files’. This article provides a parallel explanation and does not make any choices.

The scanning speed also has aperture issues: 500 data table 1000 points/second, usage guide 2000 points/second; 300 data table 1000 points/second. When quoting parameters, it is more reliable to indicate which file and version they are quoted from, rather than just giving one number. The equipment file should save the version numbers of two files.

Apart from the grating, the differences mainly lie in the positioning, cable routing, and wiring space. 500 poles are longer and have a greater stroke, requiring cables with larger bending radii and longer drag chain paths; This is also the reason for “dismantling one part, moving one piece” during 500 maintenance – the fixing points of the wiring harness are distributed between the support and the counterweight mechanism, and dismantling the support requires first handling the wiring harness.

3. Four moves and adjustment: step-by-step process

Whether it’s 300 or 500, after moving the machine, it’s not something that can be tested just by placing it. The following is an executable step-by-step process that is compatible with both machines.

Confirm the target location conditions. Ground or countertop load-bearing capacity, levelness, surrounding space, power supply (100-240 V AC ± 10%, 50/60 Hz, maximum 190 W per unit), ambient temperature (+5~+50 ° C, old version of Chinese specification manual+10~+40 ° C, the following single version shall prevail). 500 additional confirmation of door opening passage, additional confirmation of net height for elevated type.
Power off and fix moving parts. Power must be cut off before moving the machine; The sports platform is in a floating state supported by three poles, and must be fixed according to official guidelines during movement, and cannot be allowed to swing freely.
Lifting or hoisting. Two or more people should work together to lift the base, keeping the body upright and not tilting it to the side. 500 Use lifting equipment or forklifts, with lifting points according to official documents, straps with corner protectors, and lift slowly and horizontally.
Positioning and leveling. First, level up before powering on. The support point cannot be suspended or forcefully leveled with thin sheets – uneven stress on the base casting will introduce long-term deformation.
Power on self-test. Power on according to the official startup process and confirm that the self-test is complete. If there is a communication or driver alarm, first check the passive wiring harness and connectors in the moving machine.
Reposition the needle changing rack. If equipped with a needle changing rack, the “Finding the EQR-6 rack” Part 1 and Part 2 must be executed after moving or changing the rack. The position of the needle changing rack is program dependent, and not repositioning it can result in needle changing failure or collision.
Re mastering. Re establish the relationship between the standard parts and the machine coordinate system using certified standard parts. Re mastering and ‘reprogramming’ are not the same thing.
Verification. Retest the standard parts to see if the repeatability and deviation have returned to before moving the machine; Compare with known qualified workpieces to confirm that the entire process is normal.

Three safety tips: Power off during the entire process of moving the machine, do not push or lift the body while it is powered on; The lifting of 500 shall be carried out by personnel with lifting operation conditions, and no one shall stand below the operation area; Confirm that all wire harness connectors have been reset and there is no compression or pulling before the first power on.

3. Five maintenance perspectives: what users can do and which ones need to take a professional path

The official has a clear hierarchy of maintenance permissions. User maintainable items: Cleaning kit A-5504-9055 (including backup dust filter, prohibited cleaning agent), controller fan filter A-5696-0120 (12 piece set, recommended to be replaced every 6 months for high pollution environments), and probe inspection.

Internally, the host and controller are officially labeled as’ There are no user service-oriented parts inside the Controller. ‘Component replacement is carried out by Renishaw Business Representatives (RBE). This sentence constrains the user to self repair, and the official will handle it as a complete replacement, not as a judgment of the professional repair team’s ability. Third party professional maintenance can be used for board level and component level repairs such as power modules, driver boards, interface and communication boards, connectors, fans and filtration systems, storage media, and cables. However, all three boundaries must be met simultaneously: non original factory repairs will void the original factory warranty for the component; After repair, accuracy, security, and license availability must be rechecked; For those involving structural deformation, damage to the linear encoder scale body, or requiring original factory encryption upgrade packages and license migration, it is still recommended to return to the factory or use RBE.

The three boundaries must be clearly stated at the same time: non original repair will render the original warranty of the component invalid, and this must be explained to the equipment owner; After repair, accuracy, security, and license availability must be rechecked; In cases of structural deformation, scratches on the linear encoder scale body, and the need for original factory calibration or encryption upgrade packages and license migration, it is still recommended to return to the factory or take RBE.

The difference between the two is not whether they can be repaired, but the cost of disassembly and assembly. The support, counterweight, and wiring harness range of 500 are larger, and the same board level replacement requires higher disassembly and reset verification time; The 300 has a compact structure and a short disassembly path, but the space is narrow, making it easier to damage the probe and strut.

4. Boundary layer: Under what circumstances should one not move on their own, and what items must be moved by 500

4. Three types of situations where one should not move on their own

The first type is structural deformation. The parallel structure relies on three struts to establish spatial geometric relationships, and any plastic deformation at any hinge point, strut, base, or top casting will change this relationship. The manifestation is that the results of repeated calibration of the same standard component are unstable, or the deviation direction is inconsistent at different positions. Do not cover up with adjusting parameters or compensation tables, and do not loosen and then tighten on site; Changes in assembly torque and sequence will introduce new deformations. Should be returned to the factory or handled according to specifications by the party with the necessary conditions.

The second type is damage to the linear encoder scale body. The grating is mounted on the strut. Once the body is scratched, contaminated, or displaced, the reading will be incorrect, and the machine will still run the measurement “normally” and output a seemingly complete result. The danger of this type of malfunction lies in not sounding an alarm. The grating body should not be cleaned on site by oneself (official only allows the use of cleaning kits to handle designated areas, and cleaning agents are prohibited), and should be disposed of after evaluation.

The third category requires original factory calibration, encryption upgrade packages, or license migration. The controller adopts a dual environment architecture, with application software and hardware level read-only and no auto run. The upgrade package is encrypted and passes version verification; There are two forms of licenses: license key files and USB dongles. Version mismatch can cause startup failure. These involve license ownership and encryption packages, and third parties should not be involved.

4. What must go 500: Speak according to the workpiece

Selection is not about ‘which one is stronger’, but ‘which one’s boundaries can fit the parts’. Any one of the three violations cannot be compensated by the elevated type.

Size out of bounds. The measurement feature distribution exceeds the Ø 300 mm plane range, or the Z-directional features that need to be covered exceed 150 mm. 300 cannot be completed – here is the Z-working volume of 150 mm, not 205 mm.

Weight exceeds the limit. If the total weight of the workpiece and fixture exceeds 25 kg, it is not within the range of 300; The upper limit of 500 kg has been included in the fixture board. 70 kg grade castings, large templates, and whole piece tooling plates all belong to this category.

The number of job positions has exceeded the limit. Multiple parts need to be clamped and measured simultaneously, or two or more sets of fixtures need to be arranged on the same board. The 305 mm square cannot fit, and the 510 mm square can accommodate. 300 is sufficient for single piece measurement, but when the rhythm requires “one board with multiple pieces, needle changing cycle”, the board surface becomes a bottleneck.

On the other hand, the boundaries of 300 are also clear: parts smaller than Ø 300 × 150 mm, total weight of workpiece and fixture not exceeding 25 kg, single or small batch, limited on-site space (570 × 500 × 700 mm can be placed on a workbench, 25 kg can be moved by two people), and there are no forklifts or lifting conditions in the surrounding area. For such demands, the appearance and weight of 500 actually constitute a burden.

4. The three correct uses of the three plus height type

The first point is that the fixture is too high. The secondary clamping pad, adapter plate, and specialized fixture lift the parts higher. The standard 55mm space starting point cannot accommodate them, while the raised 205mm starting point can accommodate them.

The second point is the protruding structure that needs to be avoided. The parts have downward protrusions, protruding pin shafts, or require space below after clamping. The starting point of the elevated space is provided with allowance.

Article 3: Adaptation of workstation height when cooperating with automatic transmission systems. EQ-ATS comes in two types: EQ300 board and EQ500 board. The matching of the matching board and workstation height needs to be confirmed according to the official configuration; The elevated type changes the height of the entire machine and the starting point of the workspace. Whether it can be integrated with existing automation must be checked according to the order configuration and official documents, and cannot be inferred based on the appearance.

It should be emphasized that the raised type does not change the XY size or Z stroke, and the weight only slightly increases (from 25 kg to 27 kg for 300 and from 74 kg to 75 kg for 500), but it changes the overall height of the machine (from 700 mm to 850 mm for 300 and from 1535 mm to 1685 mm for 500). The 300 height model placed on the table needs to check the net height, and the 500 height model needs to check the workshop net height and lifting channel.

4. Four step evaluation of second-hand equipment: determining whether it is 300 or 500

The most common pitfall for second-hand equipment is’ unclear parameters’: the seller says it’s 500, but the actual product may be 300; Speaking of standard type, the actual product may be an elevated type. Four steps can be used for on-site judgment without dismantling the machine.

The first step is to look at the nameplate. The model characters usually contain 300 or 500 identifiers; The data table number of the random file can also be determined (H-5504-8251 series is 300, H-6078-8310 series is 500).

Step two, measure the fixture board. 305 × 305 mm is 300, 510 × 510 mm is 500, the fastest and least prone to errors; At the same time, there are 41 holes on the 300 standard board and 441 holes available for selection.

Step three, measure the height and weight of the appearance. 700 mm is the 300 standard type, 850 mm is the 300 plus height type, 1535 mm is the 500 standard type, and 1685 mm is the 500 plus height type. The difference between 25 kg and 74 kg is three times. Whether the two can lift is a rough criterion, and accurate determination is made by weighing or checking random files; The width is also available (570 mm vs. 1204 mm).

Step four, look at the structural details. The base, support, and counterweight mechanism of 500 have larger dimensions and longer struts; Observing the distance between the top casting and the platform, the length of the support arm, and the distribution of the drive housing can confirm the first two steps. The difference between the standard type and the raised type lies in the distance from the base to the workspace (300 is 55 mm to 205 mm, 500 is 0 mm to 150 mm), which can be measured with a ruler.

When there is a contradiction between the nameplate and the actual measurement, the actual measurement shall prevail and the fixture plate shall be traced to see if it has been replaced.

4. What else do we need to check for second-hand evaluation

In addition to model determination, it is also necessary to check whether the controller and the host are of the same batch, whether the random files and data sheet versions are complete, whether the license is included with the machine, whether the needle changing rack exists and matches the model, the specifications of the probe and stylus module (SM25-1 short stylus 20-50 mm, SM25-2 straight rod 50-105 mm and bent rod not exceeding 83 mm, SM25-3 longest 200 mm), and historical maintenance records. 500 also needs to confirm the lifting and transportation conditions – for a 74 kg machine, transportation costs and risks are not on the order of 300.

If equipped with EQ-ATS automatic transmission system, it is necessary to verify whether it is EQ300 board or EQ500 board, as the two are not interchangeable.

5. Verification layer: How to prove that the machine is good after replacement or repair

5. Three layers of evidence for acceptance

Whether the machine is normal cannot be proven by “running once without alarm”, but requires three layers of evidence: repeatability, comparison of standard parts, and actual measurement of workpieces.

Repeatedly answer ‘Is it the same to do the same thing multiple times?’: Test the same standard part, clamping position, and program multiple times to see the degree of dispersion in the results. Discrepancy indicates mechanical or environmental problems; If the dispersion is small but the deviation is constant, it is a calibration problem.

Answer to the comparison of standard parts: “Is the reading consistent with the certificate value?”: Use certified standard parts to recalibrate and immediately measure to see if the deviation falls within the ± 0.002 mm range. Prerequisite confirmation: Measure immediately after recalibration, ensure that the clamping position difference does not exceed 1 mm, and the certificate is valid.

Answer for workpiece testing: “Is the entire process normal?”: Take a workpiece that has been confirmed to be qualified by other methods, compare it, and verify the coordination between the program, stylus, changing needle, and software stack.

5. Verification table before and after the second changeover

From 300 to 500, or from standard type to raised type, the verification items and criteria are shown in the table below. The criteria in the table are the common practice for engineering acceptance, and the specific limits and acceptance standards are subject to official data sheets/manuals and internal control requirements of the enterprise.

Verification item	Method	Observation object	Qualification criterion	Direction when unqualified
Positioning level	Level measuring base support points	Horizontal difference of each support point	According to official installation guidelines	Uneven ground bearing and base deformation
Power on self-test	Follow the official startup process	Whether the self-test is completed and whether there are any alarms	Self check passed and no alarms	Wiring harness connectors, communication
Needle changing rack positioning	EQR-6 positioning execution Part 1/Part 2	Is the needle changing in place at once	Continuous needle changing without failure or collision	Rack position and program parameters
Probe deflection	UCCServer Equator → Advanced → Equator Server → Coordinate Measuring Machine Controller → General → Probe deflection	Deflection reading	≤ 4 μ m	Probe assembly, probe status
Repeatability	Continuous measurement of the same component and position multiple times	Discrepancy of results	Same level of measurement as before type change	Structure, environment, and drive
Comparison of standard parts	Immediately measure standard parts after recalibration	Deviation	Same level as ± 0.002 mm	Calibration, temperature, clamping
Space availability	Test installation with actual highest fixture	Check if fixture interferes with probe	No interference throughout the entire travel	Check if the raised type is selected incorrectly
Actual measurement of workpieces	Measurement of known qualified parts	Consistency of conclusions	Consistency with known conclusions	Program, stylus, software

The seventh row of this table is the key to the acceptance of the raised type. Many people switch to higher models because the fixture is too high to fit in. During acceptance, the highest set of fixtures must be used for trial installation to confirm that the probe does not interfere with the support, strut, or top casting throughout its entire stroke. Trial installation is the proof.

5. Record of three environments and prerequisites

The acceptance record should clearly state three things, otherwise disputes cannot be traced back in the future.

Firstly, environmental conditions. The working temperature data sheet is+5~+50 ° C, while the old version of the Chinese specification manual is+10~+40 ° C. There is a discrepancy between the two, and the official document of the following single version shall prevail; Simultaneously record the actual room temperature and humidity (not exceeding 80% RH non condensing at 40 ° C). Temperature is the largest variable in comparative measurement and must be marked.

Secondly, calibration and clamping status. Record the certificate number, calibration time, clamping position, and the clamping position difference of each part relative to the standard part (which must not exceed 1 mm). This is the direct basis for determining who will be responsible for the accuracy changes in the future.

Thirdly, version and configuration. Record the version number of the data table, software suite version, license form, needle changing rack configuration, and specifications of the probe and needle module. The grating resolution and scanning rate of 500 vary between official documents, and the acceptance record shall be based on the random file, with the file version indicated.

5. Four parameter citation discipline

All parameters mentioned in this article are sourced only from official data sheets and manuals. Numbers without official sources shall be written as’ official data sheet/manual shall prevail ‘, without speculation or rounding.

This article involves four sets of official statements that are inconsistent, and external citations must be listed side by side and cannot choose one from the other.

The working temperature of 300: The English data sheet 06-A and user manual are+5~+50 ° C, and the Chinese specification manual 04-A is+10~+40 ° C.

The maximum scanning speed of 300 is 200 mm/s for data table 06-A and 100 mm/s for early files.

500 grating resolution: The data table is 0.0002 mm, and the usage guide is 0.00001 mm, with a difference of 20 times. It is not separately referenced externally.

500 scanning rate: The data table has a scanning rate of 1000 points per second, and the usage guide has a scanning rate of 2000 points per second.

Writing these four groups into the device file and labeling them with version numbers is more useful than memorizing a ‘standard answer’. The most common dispute in device management is not due to incorrect parameters, but rather whether the recorded parameters match the version of the file on hand.

5. Wuyi set of reusable acceptance record templates

Fields	Fill in Content	Remarks
Model determination	300/500, standard/raised type	nameplate+fixture plate+cross confirmation of external height
Fixture board	Side length, number of holes	305 × 305 or 510 × 510
Overall appearance	Width x Depth x Height (mm)	Check with official data sheet
Weight of the whole machine	kg	Weight of the raised type also varies
Positioning environment	Room temperature, humidity, level	Record measured values
Power Supply	Input Voltage	100-240 V AC ± 10%, 50/60 Hz
Needle changing rack	Whether it is present or not, whether it has been repositioned	Must be done after moving/changing the rack
Head deflection	μ m	Criterion ≤ 4 μ m
Standard parts	Certificate number, validity period	Comparison premise
Clamping deviation	Relative standard part mm	Must not exceed 1 mm
Version	Data table version, software version, license form	Reference parameters are based on this

This table turns’ the machine is good ‘into a verifiable fact.

5. How did you spend the first week after the sixth model change

Completing the acceptance does not necessarily mean stability. The first week after changing the model is the most prone to problems, often because people have not yet adapted to the new boundaries.

On the first day, use a fixed set of parts to run full without creating a new program, allowing the operator to familiarize themselves with the new clamping height, reachable range, and needle changing rhythm. The 500 board is larger and the constraint of clamping position difference not exceeding 1 mm is more likely to be violated.

On the third day, conduct a mid-term retest and compare it with the acceptance records. If there is a trend change in deviation, first check the ambient temperature, and then check the structure – the newly placed machine needs to reach thermal equilibrium with the workshop, with a higher thermal inertia of 500.

On the seventh day, conduct a complete three-layer verification and archive it, and establish a baseline after the changeover. In the future, if you encounter the statement ‘it seems inaccurate’ again, you can check the records to determine whether it has really changed.

6. Supplementary layer: Two on-site cases and three selection illusions

6. Case 1: A Misjudgment of Treating the Elevated Type as’ Z Increasing ‘

A certain automotive parts supplier (anonymous due to customer confidentiality requirements) has a comparison measurement station for a small item, originally using the 300 standard model. There is a countersunk hole located at the top of the newly imported part’s measurement feature, and the probe needs to be inserted into the bottom of the hole for measurement. The process engineer judged that ‘Z is not enough’ and proposed to use a raised type instead.

According to criterion one, the Z-directional features that need to be covered are approximately 168 mm from the bottom of the part to the bottom of the hole. The Z-working volume exceeds 300 by 150 mm, but is far from reaching 500 by 250 mm. The raised type lifts the spatial starting point from 55 mm to 205 mm, but the Z-stroke is still 150 mm, which cannot be solved.

The final two steps are parallel: change the clamping direction of the part to sideways, so that the axis of the countersunk hole rotates into the horizontal plane, becoming a measurement problem in the XY direction – the Ø 300 mm plane range is sufficient to cover; Concentrate the few parts that require Z-direction high coverage onto 500 (Z 250 mm) for measurement. The former has almost zero cost, while the latter only requires one large machine to meet a small number of needs.

The lesson is not about choosing the wrong device, but about the semantic misguidance of the word ‘raise’: it changes the height that can be accommodated, not the height that can be measured. 205 mm and 150 mm must appear simultaneously, missing one will result in misjudgment.

6. Case 2: 500 did not relocate the needle changing rack after moving the machine

A certain 3C precision structural parts factory (anonymous due to customer confidentiality requirements) has a 500 machine that was moved from workshop A to workshop B. The lifting is standardized, the positioning is good, and there is no alarm during power on self inspection. The next day, during the testing of the first batch of parts, there was a failure to replace the needle and a slight collision with the needle, resulting in a broken edge of the ruby ball on the stylus.

The reason is very direct: the needle changing rack was not repositioned after moving the machine. The position of the needle changing rack is program dependent, and its relative position to the host has changed after transportation. The official installation guide requires that after moving or changing the rack, Part 1 and Part 2 of “Finding the EQR-6 rack” must be executed.

This case is valid for both machines, but it is more concerning for 500: 500 has more workstations, longer procedures, and higher frequency of needle changes, and a failed collision may damage multiple measuring needles. The seventh step of the moving process should not be replaced by “running a few items first to see”.

By the way, needle inspection is a user maintainable item, and ball breakage, rod bending, and loose threads should be confirmed during daily inspections after moving the machine.

6. Three illusions about selection

Illusion 1: Large machines are more stable. When the three prerequisites of immediate measurement after recalibration, clamping position difference not exceeding 1 mm, and use of certified standard parts are met, 500 is not more accurate than 300- the uncertainty of both comparisons is ± 0.002 mm. Larger structures bring greater workspace and load-bearing capacity, as well as greater thermal inertia and longer travel, requiring stricter environmental management.

Illusion 2: The raised type is the “middle gear”. It only solves the problem of ‘the starting point of the workspace being too low’, without changing the XY size, Z stroke, and load-bearing capacity; The raised type and the standard type are two clamping height schemes of the same size.

Illusion 3: The longer the parameter table, the better the choice. The selection only requires answering four questions: whether the plane dimensions of the workpiece and fixture are within Ø 300 mm, whether the Z-direction measurement requirement is within 150 mm, whether the workpiece and fixture are within 25 kg, and whether multiple workstations need to be clamped at once. Answer ‘yes’ to all four, 300 is sufficient; Any answer ‘no’, look at 500.

6. Four sentences back to the title

The Equator 500 is not a simple enlarged version of the 300, nor is it a completely different design. It is the implementation of the same parallel motion topology on a larger scale: the same component numbering system, the same SP25 probe, the same Hooke hinge, the same rod mounted grating, and the same set of precision logic that relies on standard component comparison. The difference lies in three mechanical landing points – the span and stiffness of the base, the scale of the support and constraint mechanisms, and the size and balance point of the counterweight mechanism.

On site judgment becomes simpler as a result: for larger workspace or load-bearing capacity, choose 500; If a higher clamping height is required and the workpiece itself is not large, choose the raised type. Both are not ‘upgrades’, but answers to different constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does Equator 500 mean amplifying 300 proportionally?

No. Two units share the same parallel motion structure: three linear drive struts P, Q, and R, hooked hinges at both ends, and a grating mounted on the struts. The official component diagram (Installation and Controller Guide ID 132816) provides the same component number table for 300 and 500. But the size relationship is not proportional: the workspace is linearly enlarged by 1.67 times, the overall weight of the machine has changed from 25 kg to 74 kg, and the external height has changed from 700 mm to 1535 mm. The dimensions and counterweights of the base, struts, and counterweight balancing mechanism have all been redesigned, belonging to the same family but with different scales of implementation.

Is the Z-stroke of the Q2:300 raised type 205 mm?

No. 205 mm is the height of the raised “working volume from the base”, which is the distance from the starting point of the workspace to the base; The working volume in the Z direction is still 150 mm, while the starting point for the standard type is 55 mm. The raised type solves the problem of fixtures, pads, and adapter plates being too high to fit into the workspace, without changing how far the stylus can go up and down. Parts with Z-directional features exceeding 150 mm should be considered with a Z-working volume of 250 mm at 500.

Q3: Are the accuracies of the two machines the same?

The comparison uncertainty of the two units is ± 0.002 mm, but this is not an absolute measurement accuracy. There are three prerequisites for its establishment: immediate measurement after re mastering, a clamping position difference of no more than 1 mm between each part and the standard part, and the use of certified standard parts. The data tables for 300 and 500 do not have an ISO 10360 chapter, so ISO 10360 indicators cannot be applied; The Equator-X 500 has absolute measurement capability.

How much faster is the scanning speed and movement speed of Q4:500 compared to 300?

The maximum scanning speed is 200 mm/s for 300 to 250 mm/s for 500, and the maximum moving speed is 500 mm/s to 750 mm/s; The speed did not increase proportionally with the size, indicating that the motion parameters of 500 have been readjusted. The scanning speed of both data tables is written as 1000 points/second, and the user guide for 500 points is written as 2000 points/second, with different calibers. Please indicate the file version when citing.

Q5: What are the requirements for moving a 500 machine? Can the experience of 300 be applied?

Cannot be applied. 300 units weighing 25 kg, can be lifted by two or more people working together; The 500 machine weighs 74 kg, with an outer shape of 1204 × 1139 × 1535 mm and a raised height of 1685 mm. It is necessary to use lifting equipment or forklifts, and confirm the door opening passage, ground bearing capacity, and lifting net height in advance. Power off throughout the entire process of moving the machine, take the lifting point according to the official installation guide, adjust the level before powering it on, then reposition the needle changing frame and recalibrate it.

Q6: How to quickly determine on site whether a machine is 300 or 500, and whether it is a raised type?

Step 4: First, check the nameplate (model and data sheet number, 300 for H-5504-8251 series, 500 for H-6078-8310 series); Two gauge fixture plate (305 × 305 mm is 300510 × 510 mm is 500); Three dimensions of height and weight (700 mm and 25 kg for 300 standard type, 850 mm and 27 kg for 300 raised type, 1535 mm and 74 kg for 500 standard type, 1685 mm and 75 kg for 500 raised type); Check the distance from the base to the workspace (55 mm for 300 standard type, 205 mm for raised type; 0 mm for 500 standard type, 150 mm for raised type).

Q7: What parts must be above 500 and cannot be supplemented by a raised type?

Three categories. The first type involves measuring feature distribution beyond the Ø 300 mm plane range, or Z-direction features exceeding 150 mm; the raised type does not change the Z-working volume and cannot be replenished. The second category, when the total weight of the workpiece and fixture exceeds 25 kg, the upper limit of 500 is 100 kg (including the fixture plate), and the weight of the fixture must be included in the calculation. The third type requires multiple workstations to be clamped and arranged at once. A 305 mm square cannot fit, while a 510 mm square is sufficient. All three are within the limit, 300 is enough.

Q8: What is the difference between 300 and 500 during maintenance?

The hierarchy of maintenance permissions is consistent for two machines: the user can use the cleaning kit A-5504-9055 (disable cleaning agents), controller fan filter A-5696-0120, and probe inspection; The internal official statement of the host and controller states that there are no user repairable components. Professional maintenance providers can perform board level and component level repairs, but non original factory repairs will void the original factory warranty for the item. After repair, it must be rechecked, and structural deformation and damage to the grating body are still recommended to return to the factory. The difference lies in the cost of disassembly and assembly: the support, counterweight, and wiring harness range of 500 are larger, and the working hours and reset verification amount for the same operation are higher.

Data source explanation

The parameters and structural descriptions in this article are all sourced from official Renishaw documents: Equator 300 data sheet H-5504-8251-06-A, Equator 300 specification manual H-5504-8252-04-A, Equator 500 data sheet H-6078-8310-01 (ID 107491), Equator comparator usage guide H-5504-8500 (ID 145539), Equator installation and controller guide ID 132816/107657, Equator controller technical specification H-5504-4000-01-A, EQ-ATS data sheet ID 112364/112365. The differences in aperture between official documents (working temperature, scanning speed, grating resolution, scanning rate) have been noted in parallel in the main text. When citing, please refer to the following single version of the official document. The case in the article is reconstructed and desensitized based on real working conditions, without involving specific customers or part numbers; The case data has been desensitized and is only used to illustrate the judgment logic, not as a specification basis.

Need a specific repair plan?

Every Equator fault eventually comes down to a specific machine type, duty cycle and batch. The criteria and procedures in this article can be used as a shop-floor checklist; when something does not add up, talk to us directly:

Item	Detail
Company	NINGBO JCE INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. (JCETech)
Address	Room 12B17, Building 2, Zone A, Ningbo R&D Park, Juxian Subdistrict, Hi-Tech Zone, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315048, P.R. China
Contact	Mr. Li / Mr. Zhang
Phone	+86 157-5780-7400 (Mr. Li), +86 132-2194-1413 (Mr. Zhang)
Online booking	jcetech.cn/contact

Repair intake and on-site service are handled at the same address. Please call before shipping a unit so transport and scheduling do not have to be repeated.