Avago Technologies (www.avagotech.com) has announced the release of the smallest three-channel reflective encoder in the market, the new AEDR-850x encoders.

Avago’s latest encoder is ideal for various applications, including miniature motors, closed-loop stepper motors, copiers, printers, insulin pumps, card readers, and other kinds of consumer, industrial and medical equipment since it provides a built-in interpolation for high-resolution measurement.

For direct sensing, a typical reflective encoder module offers two digital output channels and requires another module for indexing purposes. It needs an external interpolation device for motion feedback applications that requires high-resolution measurement.

Meanwhile, the AEDR-850x reflective encoder has integrated the three channels, photodetecting and interpolator circuitry and an LED light source in a single compact package with a 3.95 mm x 3.40 mm footprint. The encoder delivers high resolution encoding of 304 lines per inch. Its highly-integrated modules allow a new level of miniaturization for applications where space and size are the primary concerns.

“The integrated third-channel, compact size and high-resolution encoding performance of the Avago AEDR-850x modules is truly revolutionary, enabling smaller motor encoding systems than ever before possible,” said Hassan Hussain, General Manager at Avago’s Motion Control Products Division.

“These innovative modules cut design costs and save PCB board space for our customers, and expand the reach of our reflective encoder offerings into the industrial automation and medical segments.”

Aside from providing interpolation of up to 4x, the AEDR-850x encoders also enable several resolution designs by altering the codewheel size. Unlike some devices with Hall Effect, the optical-based modules of the encoders are less susceptible to EMI. Offering a fixed operating temperature range of -20°C to 85°C, the robust encoders are ideal for industrial and commercial operation environments.