Magnetic-Encoder Chip

AM256 magnetic 8-bit encoder chip is for noncontact angular position encoding over 360°, providing incremental, parallel, serial SSI, and analog sinusoidal output options
Sept. 8, 2009
2 min read

The solid-state, AM256 magnetic 8-bit encoder chip is for noncontact angular position encoding over 360°, providing incremental, parallel, serial SSI, and analog sinusoidal output options. The encoder’s circuit senses the angular position of a diametrically polarized, cylindrical magnet placed above it. A circular array of Hall sensors, around the center of the IC, detects the magnetic-flux density distribution at the surface of the silicon and delivers a voltage representation of the magnetic field distribution. Sine and cosine voltage outputs vary with magnet position, and are converted to absolute position with a fast 8-bit Flash interpolator. Relative changes of angle position are output as incremental A quad B signals with 8-bit/256 counts per revolution.

The AM256 operates at -40 to 125°C, has high resistance to shock and vibration, and rotational speed capability up to 60,000 rpm.

The DMX-K-SA-11 microstep motor, from Arcus Technology, Livermore, Calif., integrates the AM256 encoder with a driver and controller in a single NEMA-11 package real-time position verification. The stepper motor is a 16-microstep driver capable of full, ½, ¼, or 1/16 microsteps in three different stack sizes suitable for sizesensitive biomedical, optical, semiconductor and similar applications requiring open-loop microstep motion with real-time position confirmation.

Renishaw Inc.
5277 Trillium Blvd.
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
(847) 286-9953
www.renishaw.com

About the Author

Sign up for Machine Design eNewsletters
Get the latest news and updates.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!