German supplier Fraba/Posital has released a range of miniature single and multi-turn absolute encoders in two housing styles.
There is a hollow shaft and solid shaft versions both only 36 mm diameter and no more than 60 mm long. Its small size and low price allow the engineer to use this technology in applications previously not practised.
Two output protocols are available SSI and CanOPEN, in addition there is a draw wire accessory to the range providing a linear measurement up to one metre.
The encoder has a calibrated magnetic system which eliminates all forms of optics, mechanical gearing and does not use a battery to retain the number of turns. Despite its small size the encoders are a robust industrial encoder.