Linear Encoder Gets Smaller, Yet Goes Faster

Read head flip-chip-on-glass optics and interpolation circuitry, together with other features, have been melded into a new linear encoder that occupies only 34 x 13.2 x 12.4 mm of space and chalks up resolutions as fine as 0.1 µm and output frequencies up to 36 MHz. In addition, the read head's dual scanning arrays allow for continued reading even under contaminated conditions that would seriously affect other linear encoder systems. The LIE5 encoder is a reflective-read device that works with a steel measuring scale. The wear-resistant, easy-to-clean scale has etched graduation markings of a 20-µm pitch with high optical accuracy.