New product: User-programmable incremental encoder

By Control Engineering Staff November 22, 2006

Users can reconfigure incremental encoder angular resolution.

Sick Stegmann ‘s DRS61 CoreTech Incremental Encoders use a simple USB connection and programming software to empower customers to freely program the number of encoder lines from 1 to 8,192, as well as the width of the zero pulse. This flexible programmability allows users to use a single type of encoder that can be programmed at any time, in any location, for any application.

Customer programmability is a particularly attractive new feature for end-users, OEMs, consulting engineers, system integrators, and distributors. End-users benefit from reduced inventory requirements, immediate availability and reduced downtime. OEMs benefit by being able to use the encoder to determine the optimum resolution for their application. They are also able to provide immediate reprogramming of the encoder to suit specific customer needs, while being able to significantly reduce encoder inventory requirements. Integrators and consulting engineers no longer need to inventory multiple encoders with various PPR’s, and distributors can program the encoder at their location prior to shipping it to the customer.

DRS61 incremental encoders are available in face mount flange, servo flange, blind or through hollow shaft with connector or cable outlet, TTL or HTL interface configurations. Interchangeable collets are available for encoders with hollow shaft configurations in diameters from 6-15mm, and 0.25, 0.375 and 0.50 inches. Opto-ASIC with chip-on-board technology provides maximum encoder reliability, and automatic light regulation facilitates long LED life.

— C.G. Masi , Control Engineering senior editor