Aerotech expands motion control innovation with the launch of HXA4 and iHXA4 hexapod drives!

Aerotech Inc., a global leader in precision motion control and automation, has unveiled two new additions to its Automation1 platform—the Automation1-HXA4 and Automation1-iHXA4 hexapod drives. These advanced six-axis motion control solutions are designed to deliver high performance, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness for industries that demand precision in complex motion systems. The launch marks a significant step forward in Aerotech’s commitment to simplifying motion control integration while enhancing overall system performance.

The new drives are specifically engineered to complement Aerotech’s second-generation hexapod family, such as the HEX150-125HL. They integrate seamlessly with the Automation1 motion controller network, a powerful ecosystem that combines drives, controls, development software, and communication tools into one unified platform. This streamlined architecture reduces system complexity, improves responsiveness, and ensures precise coordination across multiple motion axes.

Brian Fink, Product Manager at Aerotech, emphasized the company’s mission to make precision motion control more accessible: “We designed the Automation1-HXA4 and Automation1-iHXA4 hexapod drives to enable effortless coordination across complex motion systems. Our goal is to help users in diverse industries achieve exceptional hexapod performance at a highly competitive price point.”

At the core of these drives lies a blend of compact design and intelligent engineering. The HXA4 and iHXA4 minimize control panel space requirements while offering simplified connectivity—each hexapod requires just two connectors for full operation. This design not only streamlines installation but also reduces maintenance complexity, making it easier for engineers and integrators to implement high-precision motion systems quickly and efficiently.

Performance and safety remain central to Aerotech’s innovation philosophy. Both hexapod drives incorporate built-in control features such as Part-Speed Position-Synchronized Output (PSO) for synchronized motion and Safe Torque Off (STO) for enhanced operational safety. These features ensure precise and secure control even in demanding environments where repeatability and reliability are critical.

The versatility of the new hexapod drives makes them suitable for a wide range of applications across industries. They are ideal for precision optics inspection, photonics device alignment, optical wafer probing, and bonding operations. Beyond the photonics sector, they are equally well-suited for aerospace and satellite component testing, electro-optics qualification, and synchrotron or beamline sample manipulation. The drives’ ability to coordinate multiple axes as easily as a single linear stage allows manufacturers and researchers to execute complex motion tasks with greater ease and accuracy.

By offering a combination of affordability, compact design, and high-end performance, Aerotech’s Automation1-HXA4 and iHXA4 drives address a growing industry need for motion control solutions that balance capability and cost. The integration within the Automation1 platform ensures users benefit from a unified software and hardware ecosystem, reducing setup time and enhancing productivity.

With this launch, Aerotech continues to strengthen its position as a trusted partner for precision automation, empowering manufacturers, researchers, and engineers to push the boundaries of motion control technology with confidence and efficiency.