US Digital Announces New 16mm Optical Encoder

US Digital in September announced a new small encoder would make a big addition to its product offering.

The new E16 Micro Optical Kit Encoder has a 10mm bolt circle, fits 1.5mm (0.059″) and 2mm (0.079″) shafts and provides A, B and Index digital quadrature signals. It comes in a variety of resolutions ranging from 250/256 to 4,000/4,096 CPR.

It was designed to work in high volume, restricted space applications, particularly with small diameter stepper motors.

“We’re always listening to the needs of our customers for new product ideas and updates,” US Digital COO Neal Donowitz said. “A while ago one of our customers told us they were working on new, small diameter stepper motors and couldn’t find encoders that would work with them. We thought this was a great opportunity and started working on what would become the E16.”

After development, and internal testing US Digital sent beta units out to customers to be tested. The feedback was positive.

“The customers in our beta program were pleased with the encoders’ performance,” said US Digital Director of Customer Relations Steve Mathis. “One customer said they planned on using it for an upcoming project ‘very soon.’.”

The E16 encoder is connected using a 5-conductor, polarized, 0.8mm pitch connector. And is powered by a single +5V supply.