Rotary and linear optical encoders are common in position and motion sensing. Here, a disc or plate containing opaque and transparent segments passes between an LED and detector to interrupt a light ...

Is it really possible to build a rotary encoder out of a flattened tin can and a couple of photodetectors? Sure it’s possible, but what kind of resolution are you going to get from such a contraption?

Sponsored by Encoder Products Company, Harmonic Drive LLC, maxon, Performance Motion Devices Encoders convert motion to an electrical signal that can be read by some type of control device in a motion ...

A typical linear encoder consists of a scanning unit and a scale. The scale is generally glass and is cemented to a support, usually an aluminum extrusion. The scanning unit contains a light source, ...