Encoders are widely used to help control machine position and speed. Typical encoder output, a series of quadrature signals, consists of two full square waves, offset by 90° in phase. The number of ...

Direct drives place rigorous demands on position-signal quality. Optimum measuring signals increase the quality of the machined workpiece surface, reduce vibration in the machine frame, stop excessive ...

The RS-485 standard defines a popular and widely used serial data interface and network that’s been in use for over 30 years. It’s found in factories, process control plants, building automation, and ...

To attain accurate positioning, a servo system requires a feedback signal to close its feedback loop. Instruments that typically supply the feedback signal include optical encoders, resolvers, and ...

Even in the best designs, noise and interference sneak in to reduce the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), obscure desired signals, and impair measurement accuracy and repeatability. Digitizing instruments ...

Last year, Automation World examined the differences between accuracy, resolution, and precision in the encoder world. And while understanding the differences among these terms is important to ...

BBC principal technologist Andy Quested has detailed the methods used to test the new encoders at the heart of controversy around BBC HD's picture quality. After new encoders were introduced by the ...