50 Years of Bit Parallel Encoders from POSITAL

MC 50 Years of Bit Parallel Eocoders from POSITAL 1 400

May 24, 2022

 

Encoder-maker POSITAL remains committed to supplying customers with absolute encoders with bit parallel communications interfaces. “Rotary encoders with parallel interfaces have been sold under the FRABA and POSITAL brands since 1972,” comments Christian Fell, leader of POSITAL’s North American operations.

Absolute encoders with parallel interfaces have always offered excellent dynamic response. However, the resolution of these encoders depends on the number of conductors in the connecting cable, resulting in a trade-off between resolution and cable size. As the performance of serial interfaces improved, parallel interfaces became less popular, and this interface has been dropped from many manufacturers’ catalogues. Nevertheless, with many parallel interface encoders still in service, there is a modest but steady demand for plug-compatible replacements.

POSITAL’s ability to supply this low-volume niche market with cost-effective products is directly related to its modular design philosophy and flexible “minimum order quantity: one” (MOQ1) manufacturing system.

Fell explains: “Our encoders are designed as assemblies of inter-changeable components. Except for a few specialized parts, our parallel interface encoders have most of the same components as encoders with serial, fieldbus, or industrial Ethernet interfaces. As long as we can source the necessary parts, we will continue to supply this market.”

POSITAL absolute encoders with parallel interfaces are based on the company’s optical measurement technology and are available in single (up to 16-bit resolution) and multi-turn (up to 25-bit output) configurations. Output is managed by an embedded microcontroller so that many coding options, including Binary, Gray and excess Gray are supported. Custom codes – such as Petherick, or those used in cam or end-switch type applications, can be implemented through software, making it possible to reproduce the functional characteristics of older sensors used in long-lived applications like public transport or machine tools. Like other POSITAL encoders, these devices are available with a wide range of options for housing material, flange design and shaft configuration (including through hollow).

 

PS: POSITAL will be exhibiting at AUTOMATE in Detroit (June 6-9) – Booth 2557. Feel free to stop by and have a fun ‘tech talk’ with Andy Zou (andy.zou@fraba.com). After a successful career with FRABA in Asia (where he helped to open the Shanghai office), Andy has joined the North American operation just a year ago. His mandate includes developing new market segments for FRABA and its brands POSITAL (encoders) and UBITO (Wiegand technology – energy harvesting and IIoT wireless sensors). The pandemic has limited Andy’s ability to get out and meet you all, so AUTOMATE will be a great opportunity to get acquainted!

MC 50 Years of Bit Parallel Eocoders from POSITAL 2 400

 

 

 

To learn more about POSITAL’s absolute encoders, click here 

 

 

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • Choosing the Right Omron Industrial Camera

    November 30, 2023 Omron, a leader in industrial automation, offers a range of industrial machine vision cameras renowned for their precision and reliability. These cameras are crucial in manufacturing and quality control. This article covers the features, applications, and selection guide for Omron industrial cameras. Key Takeaways Selecting the Right Omron Industrial Camera Plug & Play vs…. Read More…

  • ANCA’s FX7 ULTRA: Ultra Impressive and Ultra Precise. Innovation at its Finest

    November 30, 2023 By Krystie Johnston ANCA’s passion for technology and innovation, combined with their manufacturing expertise has made them a world-leader for flexible CNC tool grinders and cutters, and they are gaining attention in Canada. From Melbourne, Australia to a world-leading manufacturer ANCA is a world-leading designer and manufacturer of high-quality innovative products and solutions…. Read More…


Featured Article

Introduction to Motion Controllers from Electromate

Introduction to Motion Controllers from Electromate

In the realm of automation and robotics, the precision and accuracy of movement is paramount. The brain behind these meticulous movements is the motion controller, a device designed to control the sequence, velocity, position, and torque of a mechanical system.

Motion controllers play a pivotal role in a myriad of industries, from manufacturing and medicine to entertainment and research.

Read More


Products

  • Flexibility Unleashed: CPX-AP-I and CPX-AP-A for Machine Builders

    December 1, 2023 The adaptable valve terminal provides maximum flexibility for every machine architecture. Explore the world of flexible system topologies with the CPX-AP-I and CPX-AP-A remote I/O/P systems. Discover the benefits of centralized, decentralized, and hybrid system architectures as Festo showcases how these innovative products empower your designs and enhance your control systems. Watch… Read More…

  • Automation Solutions for Semiconductor Manufacturing

    November 30, 2023 The requirements in semiconductor manufacturing are becoming ever more complex, as node sizes are getting smaller and the demands for performance increase. The innovative and broad portfolio from Festo is geared to helping semiconductor manufacturers overcome these challenges. State-of-the-art piezo technology from Festo is best in class for precisely regulating the pressure… Read More…