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Alps Alpine's Encoder Comparison

Alps Alpine's Encoders

Whereas a potentiometer converts a change in mechanical position into an analog electrical signal, an encoder converts into a digital signal. Encoders, like potentiometers, are used as both position sensors and control devices in a wide range of electrical equipment.

Here we explain encoders as they are employed as control devices.

Types of Encoder

Encoders come in various forms. Alps Alpine supplies contact-type and magnetic rotary encoders.

types of encoder

Code Reading Methods

This section explains the different code reading methods by looking at the differences between the main encoder categories – incremental output and absolute output.

              Incremental Output                                           Absolute Output

encoder_anime_011_c66deecc730c7b4cdbdd9ba944893f5da21dad25.gifencoder_anime_021_054388e50cdc7f3ac5d6dd02c87bacae59ea3e78.gif

Whereas incremental encoders are rotated in a continuous motion, absolute encoders are used like a rotary switch to change the position of a control dial.

Encoder Series with Absolute Output

types of absolute encoder

Basic Electrical Characteristics of Encoders

Here we explain the basic electrical characteristics of contact-type rotary encoders.

Pulse
One pulse is one cycle from On to On.

Resolution
The number of pulses per revolution

Phase difference:
The time lag between rises (or falls) of signal A and signal B pulses

encoder phase difference

Chattering
Short, quick oscillations between On and Off at the On–Off switching position, caused by a step or burrs between conducting and insulating materials.

Bounce
Momentary Off output occurring during the On state.

Sliding noise:
Slight On output occurring during the Off state.

encoder signal 1

encoder signal 1

Types of Encoder Supplied by Alps Alpine

Besides the above incremental and absolute output signals, Alps Alpine encoders, like rotary potentiometers, have variations in shaft type and dimensions.

encoder shaft sizes

Structure of Alps Alpine Encoders

The following are typical encoder structures. An excellent feel can be achieved through torque and detents by optimizing flat springs and other parts.

encoder exploded view

Alps Alpine's Magnetic Encoder

The downside of a contact-type encoder is a shorter operating life than other types.
For that reason, Alps Alpine also supplies a magnetic encoder, the EM11B Series, which achieves both a guaranteed operating life of 1 million cycles and an excellent feel.

encoder EM11B

For more information, visit the Product Basics section of our website.

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