Rotary optical encoders
Precise control of angular position and rotary motion is achieved by using position feedback from rotary optical encoders, also known as angle encoders. Explore how Renishaw's finely marked disc and ring scales combine with compact absolute and incremental readheads to give superior position measurement performance.
Select your absolute or incremental rotary (angle) encoder systems
A range of rotary scales, including stainless steel rings and glass and stainless steel discs, are suitable for a wide variety of rotary motion applications. Rotary scale can be mounted to the rotating machine part by mechanical means or glue.
The rotary scales are compatible with Renishaw's open optical encoder series, for either absolute or incremental measurement.
- Absolute encoders immediately decode their current position without any motion being required.
Incremental encoders can only detect motion relative to their current position or a known reference feature.
Our range of rotary encoders enables you to choose the best system for your application.
Absolute rotary encoder systems: readheads and scales
The diameter for the various combinations of readhead and scale are shown below:
Steel ring scale Low profile Easy-to-install |
Steel ring scale Thick cross-section High accuracy | |
RESOLUTE™ readhead (30 µm pitch) High accuracy High speed | 52 to 550 mm | 52 to 417 mm |
RES
REX
Incremental rotary encoder systems: readheads and scales
The diameter for the various combinations of readhead and scale are shown below:
Glass disc scale Thermally stable Light |
RES Steel ring scale Low profile Easy-to-install |
REX Steel ring scale Thick cross-section High accuracy | |
ATOM™ readhead (20 µm, 40 µm pitch) Tiny Analogue | 30 to 108 mm | N/A | N/A |
ATOM DX™ readhead (20 µm, 40 µm pitch) Tiny Digital | 17 to 108 mm | N/A | N/A |
VIONiC™ readhead (20 µm pitch) High accuracy Digital | N/A | 52 to 550 mm | 52 to 417 mm |
QUANTiC™ readhead (40 µm pitch) Versatile | N/A | 52 to 550 mm | N/A |
TONiC™ readhead (20 µm pitch) Analogue | N/A | 52 to 550 mm | 52 to 417 mm |
RCD
Explore the technical specifications of our optical encoders, including their options and variants, via our technical documents. Our compliance certificates provide additional guarantees of Renishaw's commitment to quality.
Discover how optical encoders enable excellent motion control in a range of industries and applications. Explore real-life examples of products and processes that benefit from Renishaw's encoder technology and extensive expertise.
Contact our sales team today
Get in contact with your local office to find out more information and speak to an expert.