Driver and power supply for a linear actuator

[abrianabir]

I'm sorry if this is a simple question or has already been answered.
I recently got started with Arduino for my class I need a driver and power supply for a linear actuator. I've been flailing around: I've tried the Sparkfun Pro driver but I think I'm often stalling my stepper motor.

Btw, I'm trying to maximize torque.
I'd greatly appreciate advice on a driver and power supply.

I have a Ametek #43L4B-2.33-099
|Actuator Type|Non-Captive|
|Connection|12" Flying Leads|
|Current per Phase|2.6 A|
|Inductance per Phase|1.33 mH|
|Insulation Resistance|20 Mohms|
|Linear Travel per Step (in)|0.000625|
|Linear Travel per Step (mm)|0.0158|
|Max Thrust @ 100% Duty (lb)|75|
|Max Thrust @ 100% Duty (N)|337|
|Power|10.4 W|
|Product Family|Hybrid Linear Actuators|
|Quantity on Hand|7|
|Resistance per Phase|0.9 Ohms|
|Screw Length Non-Captive (in)|6|
|Screw Length Non-Captive (mm)|152|
|Series|43000|
|Size|17|
|Stack Length|Double|
|Step Angle|1.8°|
|Winding Voltage|2.33 VDC|
|Wiring|Bipolar|

[Paul_KD7HB]

What drivers have you found that will work with your bi-polar stepper motor?

[jremington]

If you need the full rated torque, you need a current limiting stepper driver capable of handling at least 2.6 A/phase. This would be my choice, because Pololu is a highly reputable designer/manufacturer/supplier with excellent product support, but cheaper alternatives can be found on line.

Be sure to adjust the current limit correctly.

[abrianabir]

So would I set the current limit to 2.6A?
For the power supply side, can I just use a 12V 5A? or do I have to be cognisant of something else?

[jremington]

@abrianabir

So would I set the current limit to 2.6A?

If you are asking how to set the current limint, that depends on which driver you choose. Study the data sheet or product page.

For fast stepping, use a 24-36V motor power supply. The current draw goes down with as the voltage increases, so you can get away with a 15-20 Watt power supply.

[abrianabir]

@jremington

If you are asking how to set the current limint, that depends on which driver you choose. Study the data sheet or product page.

Sorry, I wasn't clear, I wasn't asking how to but what value to set it to.
So it has a current per phase of 2.6 A, so would I limit it to 2.6A or higher?

@jremington

For fast stepping, use a 24-36V motor power supply. The current draw goes down as the voltage increases, so you can get away with a 15-20 Watt power supply.

Ok, that makes sense. So there isn't a target current requirement as long as the power exceeds the needed 10.4 W requirement.

[jremington]

@abrianabir

it has a current per phase of 2.6 A, so would I limit it to 2.6A or higher?

2.6A or LESS. Do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended maximum current.

Less current = less torque and cooler motor operation.