Is it really possible to build a rotary encoder out of a flattened tin can and a couple of photodetectors? Sure it’s possible, but what kind of resolution are you going to get from such a contraption?

In a project, repetitive tasks that break the flow of development work are incredibly tiresome and even simple automation can make a world of difference. [Simon Merrett] ran into exactly this while ...

Encoders are integral parts of motor-control systems that sense mechanical motion, then generate digital signals in response to that motion. The trend today is to create smaller mechanical and ...

Why are there so many different angle encoders on the market? Why do they use different scanning and measuring methods? And which one should a designer choose? To answer those questions, engineers at ...

Encoders are widely used in the motion control and automation industry to monitor the position and speed of motors. This information can be used by the motion control electronics to detect if the ...