One encoder disc fits all applications

A new encoder system from Stegmann uses only one disc for any number of lines. It is not necessary to locate the zero-pulse manually. Instead the user can remove a cap on the encoder housing, press a button, and replace the cap.

Stegmann claims the Coretech encoder can offer any number of lines from 1 to 8192 and, for absolute encoder applications, from 1 to 32,768 steps-per-revolution, as well as 256 different mechanical and electrical combinations.

Stegmann says it can produce 10 million Coretech variants from 100 individual components and despatch them within 48 hours.

Darren Pratt, the company`s UK encoder product manager, asserts that "this level of availability is totally unique and unavailable elsewhere". Usually, encoder manufacturers need to know an encoder`s shaft type and profile before its is manufactured because they use a large number of etched discs which have to be cemented to the shaft.

By using differential scanning, Stegmann claims to achieve immunity against interference. The use of ASICs means fewer components, higher reliability and better EMC characteristics, the company adds.