1.1 ACTUATOR TYPES

• There are a wide range of actuators. Some require simple on/off control while others require more sophisticated control.

• Some common actuators are,

• Stepper motors

• Servo motors

• Hydraulic valves (to drive hydraulic systems)

• Pneumatic valves (to drive Pneumatic systems)

• Solenoids

• Synchronous motors

• Magnetic coils for attraction, or repulsion

• etc.

• Most suppliers of actuators also sell drivers for their devices. These will amplify small signals that computers put out, to drive the devices, and these devices occasionally come with position (or equivalent) feedback abilities.