Optical Encoders

Q: What is an optical encoder used for?

Optical encoders are just one of several feedback techonlogies used to track position and/or speed data. They are commonly used for applications where high accuracy and resolution are important criteria.

How Does an Optical Encoder Work?

The core components of an optical encoder include:

Code Disc: A disc made of glass or plastic with transparent and opaque segments arranged in a specific pattern.

Light Source: Usually an LED that emits light through the code disc.

Photodetector: Senses the light passing through the disc and generates corresponding electrical signals.

As the shaft rotates, the code disc interrupts the light beam, and the photodetector captures these interruptions to produce signals that represent the position or motion of the shaft.

Featured Optical Encoders

HS35R Hollow-shaft Encoder

Heavy duty incremental hollow-shaft encoder rated at 400G shock, 20G vibration. Wide temperature range and IP67 option. 1-5,000 PPR.

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H25 Size 25 incremental Encoders

Industry standard size 25 incremental encoders offer reliable feedback with options up to 10,000 PPR, sealing, extended temp range and more.

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F10

Ultra small size 10 hollow-shaft incremental encoder with up to 120°C temperature range. Max 2,048 PPR with commutation tracks available.

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AI25 Size 25 Absolute Encoders

Standard size 25 absolute encoders come with shaft or hub-shaft mounting, multiple protocols including SSI, BiSS, DeviceNet and more.

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AD35

Single-turn hub-shaft 38mm size absolute encoder for servo motors. SSI, BiSS and SSI Gray protocols. Up to 22 bit single-turn resolution.

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AD25

Super compact single and multi-turn absolute encoder with conical shaft for concentric motor mounting. Up to 22 bit ST and 12 bit MT.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Optical Rotary Encoders

What is an optical encoder and how does it work?

Optical encoders generate signals or pulses in response to a patterned disc rotating to reflect or transmiss light from an emitter to a sensor. An integrated circuit then processes the sensor data into digital feedback.

Learn more how an optical encoder works here

What is an optical encoder used for?

Optical encoders are just one of several feedback technologies used to track position and/or speed data. They are commonly used for applications where high accuracy and resolution are important criteria.

What is the output of optical encoders?

Optical encoders provide different output types based on whether they are incremental or absolute. Incremental type optical encoders output a continuous square wave with the crests corresponding to pulses. The output of the absolute optical encoders is a unique digital word or bit and is output in the set communication protocol such as BiSS or EtherNet/IP.

How accurate is the optical encoder?

Optical encoders are highly accurate and precise position feedback devices used in applications that require precise control and positioning. The accuracy of an optical encoder is affected by various factors, including resolution, component quality, and external factors such as temperature and vibration. However, optical encoders often have protective measures to ensure accuracy, such as shock absorbers and vibration dampeners. Overall, optical encoders are reliable and accurate devices, making them widely used in industries such as robotics, automation, and machine tools.

Are optical shaft encoders digital or analog?

Optical shaft encoders are digital devices that provide precise position feedback by generating digital signals in response to shaft rotation. These signals are processed by a digital circuit to determine the position, speed, and direction of rotation. Optical shaft encoders are widely used in applications that require high accuracy and precision, such as robotics, automation, and industrial control systems.

What is the difference between optical and magnetic encoders?

Optical encoders and magnetic encoders are two types of position feedback devices that use different methods to detect position and rotation. Optical encoders use light to detect position, while magnetic encoders use magnets to detect position. Optical encoders offer high accuracy and resolution, while magnetic encoders offer better durability and resistance to harsh environments. Overall, the choice between optical and magnetic encoders depends on the specific needs of the application, such as accuracy, durability, and environmental factors.

What is the resolution of an optical encoder?

The resolution of an optical encoder refers to the number of measurement points per revolution, often expressed in counts per revolution (CPR) or bits for absolute encoders. Optical encoders offer high resolutions, ranging from 1,000 CPR to over 65,536 CPR, making them ideal for precise motion control applications.

What factors affect the accuracy of an optical encoder?

Several factors influence the accuracy of an optical encoder, including:

Disk Quality – High-precision glass or metal disks improve accuracy.
Optical Sensor Alignment – Misalignment can cause signal errors.
Interference & Contamination – Dust, oil, or scratches on the disk can affect readings.
Electronics & Signal Processing – Noise filtering and interpolation techniques enhance accuracy.

Enhance your designs with precision and reliability using advanced optical encoders.

Types of Optical Encoders

Incremental Optical Encoders

Absolute Optical Encoders

Featured Optical Encoders

HS35R Hollow-shaft Encoder

H25 Size 25 incremental Encoders

F10

AI25 Size 25 Absolute Encoders

AD35

AD25

Frequently Asked Questions about Optical Rotary Encoders

What is an optical encoder and how does it work?

What is an optical encoder used for?

What is the output of optical encoders?

How accurate is the optical encoder?

Are optical shaft encoders digital or analog?

What is the difference between optical and magnetic encoders?

What is the resolution of an optical encoder?

What factors affect the accuracy of an optical encoder?

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