ATOM™ optical incremental encoder series
The ATOM optical incremental encoder series provides high-speed position measurement, superior metrology and easy set-up within a miniature readhead design ideal for space constrained applications. Digital output is available from a range of high-speed interpolator interfaces.
Miniaturisation without compromise
The ATOM series is Renishaw's miniature non-contact optical incremental encoder system suitable for linear and rotary applications. Its innovative design combines miniaturisation with leading-edge signal stability, dirt immunity and reliability. This represents a significant advance in the performance and reliability of miniature encoders. ATOM is also the fastest encoder in its class, with maximum speeds up to 20 m/s.
ATOM systems are simple to install with integrated LED for signal integrity indication. They are compatible with Renishaw's ADTpro-100 diagnostic tool.
A range of high-speed interpolator interfaces is available including high-performance Ti, Ri and the compact PCB ACi interface, offering digital output with resolutions down to 1 nm.
The ATOM readhead is also available as a flexible printed circuit (FPC) variant which helps reduce overall package size, with a reduced Z-height.
Datasheets and technical documents
Further information about the technical specifications of the ATOM encoder series, such as datasheets and installation guides, are available from our technical downloads section.
Watch our introduction to ATOM incremental encoders
What form of motion do you need to measure?
Linear
| Scale type | Scale name | Accuracy | Scale pitch | Coefficient of thermal expansion at 20 °C | Supplied length |
Stainless steel tape
| RTLF | 20 µm: ±5 µm/m 40 µm (high accuracy): ±5 µm/m | 20 µm/40 µm | ~10.6 m/m/°C | Up to 10 m (> 10 m on request) |
Glass spar
| RCLC | ±3 µm/m | 20 µm/40 µm | ~8 m/m/°C | Up to 130 mm |
Narrow stainless steel tape
| RKLF-S | 20 µm: ±5 µm/m 40 µm (high accuracy): ±5 µm/m 40 µm: ±15 µm/m | 20 µm/40 µm | Matched to substrate material when scale ends are fixed with end clamps | Up to 10 m (> 10 m on request) |
Partial arc
| Scale type | Scale name | Accuracy | Scale pitch | Coefficient of thermal expansion at 20 °C | Supplied length |
Narrow stainless steel partial arc tape
| RKLF-S | ±15 µm/m | 40 µm | 10.1 ±0.2 μm/m/°C | Up to 10 m (> 10 m on request) |
Rotary
| Scale type | Scale name | Graduation accuracy | Scale pitch | Coefficient of thermal expansion at 20 °C | Disc outer diameter |
Glass disc
| RCDM | ±0.5 µm (disc ø up to 100 mm) ±0.7 µm (disc ø over 100 mm) | 20 µm/40 µm | ~8 µm/m/°C | 17 to 108 m |
Key benefits
Miniature analogue
Miniature fully featured analogue encoder for space constrained applications, with external interpolator interfaces.
FPC readhead variant
Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) with reduced Z-height to give customers the freedom to design custom cabling for easy routing.
Reliable position measurement
Unique filtering optics design with excellent signal stability and dirt immunity.
The ATOM series meets all of our main requirements for a high-performance, low-noise and light-weight miniature encoder system. Direct comparison with competing brands has demonstrated beyond doubt that ATOM is indeed best-in-class. Renishaw's delivery lead-times and after-sales support have also proven to be excellent.
TPC Motion (South Korea)
Optional Advanced Diagnostic Tool ADTpro-100
The ADTpro-100 is a handheld, standalone encoder diagnostic tool featuring an integral colour touch screen. It assists in system set-up and planned maintenance to help minimise unscheduled machine downtime. The ADTpro-100:
- Requires no computer or additional set-up equipment to display comprehensive real-time encoder information.
- Is easy and intuitive to use with plug-and-play functionality to aid system set-up and calibration.
- Interfaces with the optional ADT View computer software. ADT View can be used to update the ADTpro-100 firmware.
The ADTpro-100 is ideal for aiding system optimisation and diagnostics, particularly for installations when the readhead LED is not visible. It can be used standalone or in-line, connected between the readhead and the controller as part of the control loop.
Discover our range of open optical encoders designed to meet your industrial automation needs.