Metal-disk encoders are tough and cheap

Pepperl+Fuchs has developed an incremental encoder which uses a rugged metal disk instead of the usual glass disk. This results in a low-cost sensor which is more resistant to shock and vibration than standard encoders.

The RV150 encoder also uses a new optical chip which reduces the number of components and has allowed P+F to produce a device which is 10mm shorter than its earlier RV150 incremental encoders.

The new encoders are designed for speeds up to 6,000 rpm and a resolution of up to 1,024 pulses per revolution. They have a modular construction, allowing them to be supplied with either radial or axial cable outlets. The encoders are housed in 50mm-diameter metal casings, protected to IP40.