Partial arc optical encoders
Rotation of less than a full turn is measured with a partial arc encoder. Discover how Renishaw's flexible linear scales can wrap around a drum, shaft, or other cylindrical surface to allow a compact readhead to accurately measure a limited rotation.
Select your partial arc encoder system
Renishaw's flexible linear encoder scales have a small cross-sectional area which allows them to be wrapped around a circular surface to measure partial rotations. The scale is mounted by self-adhesive backing tape.
These flexible scales are compatible with Renishaw's open optical encoders, for either absolute or incremental measurement.
Absolute encoders immediately decode their current position without any motion being required.
Incremental encoders can only detect motion relative to their current position or a known reference feature.
Our variety of compatible encoder readheads enable you to choose a system that is most suitable for your motion application.
Absolute partial arc encoder systems: readheads and scales
The minimum bend radius for the various combinations of readhead and scale are shown below:
RESOLUTE™ readhead (30 µm pitch) High accuracy High speed |  RKL Steel tape scale Narrow & thin Flexible 50 mm |
Incremental partial arc encoder systems: readheads and scales
The minimum bend radius for the various combinations of readhead and scale are shown below:
ATOM™ readhead (20 µm, 40 µm pitch) Tiny Analogue | RKL Steel tape scale Narrow & thin Flexible 26 mm |
ATOM DX™ readhead (20 µm, 40 µm pitch) Tiny Digital | RKL Steel tape scale Narrow & thin Flexible 26 mm |
VIONiC™ readhead (20 µm pitch) High accuracy Digital |
RKL Steel tape scale Narrow & thin Flexible 30 mm |
QUANTiC™ readhead (40 µm pitch) Versatile | RKL Steel tape scale Narrow & thin Flexible 26 mm |
TONiC™ readhead (20 µm pitch) Analogue | RKL Steel tape scale Narrow & thin Flexible 30 mm |
Explore the technical specifications of our optical encoders, including their options and variants, via our technical documents. Our compliance certificates provide additional guarantees of Renishaw's commitment to quality.
Discover how optical encoders enable excellent motion control in a range of industries and applications. Explore real-life examples of products and processes that benefit from Renishaw's encoder technology and extensive expertise.
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