Linear encoders for machine tools

Staff -- Control Engineering, 8/1/2006

LC Series absolute linear encoders from Heidenhain Corp. have reportedly been redesigned to meet today's measurement requirements in machine tools better, and also now include two interfaces: EnDat 2.2 and Fanuc 02. LC 183 and 483 Series with EnDat interface and LC 193 and 493 with Fanuc interface offer electrical advantages, including making possible purely serial axis-control. Resolution of the absolute position value is 5 nm for encoders with an accuracy grade of ±3 µm and 10 nm for encoders with an accuracy grade of ±5 µm with the EnDat versions. Data word length is 32 bits regardless of the measuring length. With a clock frequency of 8 MHz, the formation of the position value and transfer takes approximately 20 µs. Output formats also incorporate a single-field scanning technique, ensuring optimal signal quality, high traversing speed, and contamination resistance. Maximum cable runs have also increased. www.heidenhain.com Heidenhain Corp.