Diagnostic tool maintains encoder quality

Charlotte, N.C. — Position encoders degrade over time with changes in light sources, alignment of emitters/receivers, dirt or scratches in the optical path, etc. Initial output magnitude and the ideal 90°-phase between quadrature signals is altered, resulting in less machine output or bad parts produced. Quadrater Encoder Tester is a digital phase-measuring device that monitors quadrature encoders (rotary or linear), and measures worst-case phase shift as a single digit LED display—from 0 to 9. An “8” or a “9” indicates proper encoder function.

Quadrater can predict when an axis will miscount, detect missing signals, help align the encoder, display travel direction, find scratches (or dirt) on the glass scale, and do incoming inspection. The unit just plugs into the encoder, comes in 5 or 12 V dc versions, and is priced at $550 in quantities of five to 10. www.specialmachines.com

Lynn Electronics Corp.

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