• Renishaw Metrology Systems Limited

Miniature Incremental Optical Encoder

Renishaw has launched ATOM, an innovative non-contact optical linear and rotary Incremental Encoder System that uniquely combines miniaturisation with leading-edge dirt immunity, signal stability and reliability. Available in sizes as small as 6.8 x 12.7 x 20.5 mm, ATOM is the world's first miniature encoder to use filtering optics with Auto Gain Control (AGC) and Auto Offset Control (AOC). This advanced technology is found in Renishaw's proven TONiC™ incremental encoder range and provides excellent signal stability and exceptional dirt immunity. The ATOM readhead is available in a range of formats and delivers unrivalled metrology performance, offering class-leading accuracy with low Sub-Divisional Error (SDE), low jitter, high signal stability and long-term reliability. ATOM offers speeds to 20 m/s (29,000 RPM on a 17 mm disc) and resolutions to 1 nm (0.004 arc second on a 108 mm disc) with a range of linear and rotary (angle) scales available in stainless steel and glass. The readhead also includes a set-up LED to allow quick and easy installation and an auto-calibration routine to enable faster optimisation. The ultra-compact ATOM incremental encoder is supplied in hi-flex cable and Flexible-Printed Circuit (FPC) variants with both 20 µm and 40 µm scale options. The side-exit FPC version reduces the overall package size and allows integration with PCBs. Customers can also choose from a range of high-accuracy linear glass spars to 130 mm in length, stainless steel tape to 10 m and rotary glass disc scales from 17 mm to 108 mm in diameter. Applications include laser scanning, coordinate measurement systems, semiconductor and flat-panel display production, motor drive systems, microscopy and the scientific research sector.