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Multi-role magnetic encoders challenge optical devices
Published:  07 May, 2015

At the recent Hannover Fair, the German sensor-maker ifm electronic unveiled a range of multi-role magnetic encoders with built-in microcontrollers and displays that, it says, offer a real alternative to traditional optical encoders.

The devices have three main roles:

•  as incremental encoders with programmable resolutions from 2–10,000 pulses/revolution;

•  as counters with selectable switch points and counting directions (up/down); and

•  as rotational speed monitors. When the speed moves above or below a limit value set by the user, an output switches, allowing the device to operate as a speed or standstill monitoring system.

Ifm says that the device’s ability to perform different tasks will allow users to stock fewer items.

ifm's incremental encoder includes a display and IO-Link support and also operates as a speed monitor and counter

Pulse, count or speed values are shown on an LED display with a two-colour (red/green) indication of whether limit values have been exceeded. The display can be rotated electronically though 180 degrees, giving installation flexibility.

All functions and parameters can be set either via pushbuttons and the display, or remotely via IO-Link.

Cable entries or rotatable M12 connections can be used either radially or axially. Choosing a suitable encoder is simply a matter of matching the flange to the shaft – everything else can be configured by the user.

ifm is also offering a basic version of the device for users who want an encoder, but not need the pushbuttons or display. This version can be set via IO-Link.