Fiber Optic Absolute Rotary Encoders

What type of encoder does your application require?

• Absolute encoders (also called  position sensors) are used where monitoring absolute position and high precision are required. Their signature output is a digital value of absolute position. Even if an absolute encoder loses power, the system will always report it current true position upon start-up.
• Incremental encoders are used where speed and relative position need to be monitored, and typically offer lesser resolution than an absolute encoder system. Their signature outputs are A/B quadrature pulses. The user’s motion control system tracks these pulses (phasing determines direction) to monitor relative position from intial Home setting. The same system measures the time between pulses to track speed. If  the system loses power,  all position and speed information is typically lost.

Micronor Sensors offers two series of fiber optic type absolute rotary encoders; the MR330 and MR430 series. Both are based on an all-optical passive sensor and remote interrogator control module.

The MR330 series is the product of choice for high precision and longer distances. It uses 62.5/125 multimode fiber and can operate up to distances of 300m

The MR430 series offers a smaller form factor.  It uses 1mm POF and POIF fiber and can operate up to distances of 30m.