Feature

Vacuum-rated encoders are compact and easy to set up

InMoCo's MicroE Systems Mercury and Mercury II vacuum encoders are easy to set up and align, and fit into very tight spaces for both linear and rotary applications.

11/01/2015 14:10:25

The sensors are 8.2mm tall, yet capable of resolutions up to 1.2nm with a cyclical error of ±20nm. All models perform at 10-8 torr with negligible outgassing and are resilient to magnetic forces.

The Mercury units have advanced electronics built into their shielded D-sub connectors to give class-leading performance in electrically noisy environments. The range includes encoders with digital, analogue or programmable output. Output is A-quad-B with interpolation to give resolutions to 0.005µm (linear) and 67.1 million/revolution (rotary). Power consumption for most models is only 0.25W.

Set-up is simplified in many applications because a design feature ensures alignment during bolt-in, while a light emitting diode confirms alignment and index location. Further aiding set-up and use, the index signal is bi-directional and repeatable to each encoder’s resolution.

Vacuum-compatible linear and rotary glass scales are available in lengths from 13mm to 2m, and diameters up to 121mm, and a range of resolutions is available for various units within the range.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.