ATOM™ encoder series
What is ATOM?
ATOM is Renishaw's miniature non-contact optical incremental linear and rotary encoder system. Its innovative design combines miniaturisation with leading-edge signal stability, dirt immunity and reliability. This combination is unique in the market place and represents a significant advance in the performance and reliability of miniature encoders.
ATOM systems are simple to install with integrated LED for signal integrity indication.
A range of interfaces is available including high-performance Ti, Ri and the compact PCB ACi interface.

Scale options
- Linear scales are used where straight-line position information is needed - usually X, Y or Z axes.
- Rotary scales are used for angular position information and the motion control of rotating elements.
- Partial arc scales are used for measuring a partial arc of rotation by wrapping them around drums, shafts or arcs.
Glass spar
Scale name | Accuracy | Scale pitch | Coefficient of thermal expansion | Supplied length | Readhead compatibility |
RCLC![]() | ±3 µm | 20 µm/40 µm | ~8 µm/m/°C | 130 mm | ATOM |
Stainless steel tape
Scale name | Accuracy | Scale pitch | Coefficient of thermal expansion | Supplied length | Readhead compatibility |
RTLF ![]() | 40 µm (high accuracy): ±5 µm/m | 20 µm/40 µm | ~10.6 µm/m/°C | 10 m (> 10 m on request) |
Narrow stainless steel tape
Scale name | Accuracy | Scale pitch | Coefficient of thermal expansion | Supplied length | Readhead compatibility |
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) | ATOM |
Narrow stainless steel partial arc tape
Scale name | Accuracy | Scale pitch | Coefficient of thermal expansion | Supplied length | Readhead compatibility |
RKLF-S ![]() | ±15 μm/m | 40 µm | Matched to substrate material when scale ends are fixed with end clamps | Up to 10 m (> 10 m on request) | ATOM |
Glass disc
Scale name | Graduation accuracy (depending on ring diameter) | Scale pitch | Coefficient of thermal expansion | Disc diameter | Readhead compatibility |
RCDM ![]() | ±0.5 µm | 20 µm/40 µm | ~8 µm/m/°C | 17 to 108 mm |