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Interferometric laser encoders

Renishaw offers a range of next-generation interferometric laser encoders, also known as displacement measuring interferometers. Discover how our laser encoder systems meet the advanced motion control demands of semiconductor manufacturing equipment.

Designed for high-accuracy motion control applications

Our next-generation Renishaw laser encoder (RLE) systems deliver high-performance solutions for position measurement in advanced engineering applications. Built on decades of innovation, our laser encoders, along with a range of interfaces, offer a robust solution for high-accuracy displacement feedback in demanding motion control applications.

Our laser encoder systems are trusted by global leaders in semiconductor manufacturing, scientific research and precision manufacturing. They deliver the accuracy and frequency stability needed to meet the most demanding specifications.

Our older, legacy products - the RLE10 and RLE20 laser encoder systems - are not recommended for new designs. Find our suggested alternative solutions and contact us today for manufacturing support.

Expand your capabilities with our laser encoders and interfaces

RLE300 laser unit, with 2 DI differential and 2 PMI plane mirror detector heads on white background

The RLE100, RLE200 and RLE300 systems are advanced homodyne interferometric laser encoders specifically designed for position feedback applications.

RLE laser encoders

RPI30 and RPI31 laser interface for Panasonic controller on white plinths, for laser encoders

High-speed interfaces provide high resolution position feedback in various digital formats. Diagnostics provide real-time system information.

Interfaces and diagnostics

Why choose Renishaw's laser encoders?

Laser encoders provide linear or angular position measurement with high resolution and low cyclic error (Sub-Divisional Error). They combine the measurement performance of a displacement interferometer with the ease of use and installation of traditional tape or glass scale encoders.

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Accurate measurement

Ultimate precision from ultra-high frequency stability, low positional noise and automatic Sub-Divisional Error (SDE) correction.

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Flexible configuration

Configure your ideal system set-up and output with ease using our modular system design and intuitive software.

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Easy set-up

Compact and robust, the RLE system's optical fibre technology and integral beam steerers reduce installation time to a simple bolt down and dial in process.

Technical support downloads

Easily access guides, support documentation, and downloads for our laser encoder products and software.

Downloads

What is a laser encoder?

A laser encoder is a displacement measurement system that uses laser interferometry to provide precise position feedback for motion control. These systems are ideal for applications where nanometre-scale accuracy, system flexibility and environmental resilience are essential, such as precision XY stages.

Laser encoders explained

We are dedicated to simplifying laser encoder interferometry and understand that selecting the right system can be complex.

Explore how Renishaw's RLE laser encoder systems use a remote laser source to deliver enhanced metrology and improve your processes.

Laser encoders explained

RLE encoder system in a UHV chamber

Examples of laser encoder applications

Lithography wafer inspection stage

Lithography

Laser encoders are well suited to provide precision position feedback for direct-write lithography processes, both laser write systems in air and electron-beam (e-beam) systems in vacuum.

Wafer inspection machine

Wafer inspection

SEM-based wafer inspection processes benefit from differential interferometer laser encoders which measure the point of interest relative to the electron column.

Illustration of advanced wafer packaging in semiconductor, demonstrating the various layers

Wafer packaging

Plane mirror interferometer laser encoders provide the robust high-resolution position feedback essential for demanding alignment processes in wafer packaging applications.

David Payne from Renishaw and Jamie Sarjeant from Occuity

Application support and custom solutions

Renishaw provides training and technical support for your application, no matter where you and your customers are.

We work directly with you to develop product variants and bespoke accessories to suit your applications.

Find out more

Service and repair

Renishaw offers a full range of service options to maintain optimal performance and support compliance with quality assurance and business requirements.

All laser encoder repairs are completed by our expert technicians at our Service Centres. In addition to standard repairs, "Repair by Exchange" (RBE) units are also available for several items as a cost-effective repair option.

Service information

Renishaw cardboard product box being held by the hands of a Renishaw employee
Two RLU300 laser units for interferometric laser encoders in front of each other with two hands connecting the back unit

Quality and conformance

When you buy an interferometric laser encoder and its accessories from Renishaw, you are buying into a proven track record of assured quality, and an ISO 9001 compliant quality management system.

Ensuring customer confidence requires quality assurance and a robust traceability record. Our RLE laser encoder systems can be supplied with documentation that demonstrates the quality and reliability of your capabilities.

Quality and conformance information

Discover our range of open and enclosed optical, inductive and magnetic encoders designed to meet your industrial automation needs.

 

Contact our sales team today

Get in contact with your local office to find out more information and speak to an expert.