SMAC Moving Coil Actuators

Founded in 1990 in Carlsbad, California, SMAC set out to automate work traditionally done by hands and fingers. By combining advanced technology with competitive pricing, SMAC aims to replace conventional automation devices such as pneumatic cylinders and electric ball screw actuators. Today, SMAC manufactures a wide range of precision, programmable electric actuators based on its patented moving coil technology—designs that outperform traditional pneumatic and other electric actuators, including moving magnet linear motors.

Our technological edge, combined with continuous cost-down/quality-up processes and a global sales network, makes SMAC a leading mechatronics manufacturer worldwide.

SMAC Electric Actuators

SMAC actuators are unique: force, position, and speed are fully programmable, giving manufacturers the flexibility to run various products with a quick changeover at the touch of a button.

Soft-Land Capability

• Allows the actuator rod to land on a component with low, programmed force.
• Enables extremely accurate sensing of product location and dimensions.
• Ideal for handling delicate or high-value components.
• Provides “human finger-like” performance with immediate feedback on force and position.
• Useful for testing human interface devices such as switches and connectors.

SMAC actuators also perform extremely high to very low speeds, with sub-micron accuracy, repeatability, and response times as precise as 1 ms—perfect for positioning, measuring, inspection, and pick-and-place applications where 100% verification is required.

Smart Automation with SMAC

Simply performing a task is no longer enough in modern automation. Today’s systems require the ability to:

• Determine in real time if the work is done correctly
• Adjust work parameters to fit individual items
• Monitor the workstation to ensure optimal functioning

SMAC actuators integrate these capabilities, enabling automation with real-time verification and supporting Industry 4.0 initiatives. Benefits include:

• Increased efficiency
• Reduced downtime
• Lower operational costs

Capabilities include:

• Performing work and reporting success or failure in real time
• Adjusting actions based on real-world input
• Monitoring the work environment to provide early warnings of potential system failures

These features are becoming essential in today’s highly integrated and flexible production systems.

SMAC Encoders

In 2008, SMAC expanded to design and produce incremental linear optical encoders, leading to the establishment of the SMAC Electronics Manufacturing Center in New Hampshire. The team includes engineers and technicians with over 35 years of experience in encoder design and production.

SMAC encoders are highly flexible to meet market changes and customer needs:

• Fast delivery on standard optical linear and rotary encoders
• Custom OEM designs welcome
• Rapid prototyping from design to application
• Available in absolute and incremental formats
• Optical and magnetic options

We work with you to build custom encoders that fit your project specifications.