Heavy-duty absolute encoders — now with EtherCAT communications

New EPC Model A58HE and Model A58SE are EtherCAT-ready, multi-turn absolute encoders for harsh factory and plant environments. They work in applications where fieldbus connectivity is required, and the encoder must retain absolute position information after power-off events. The Model A58HE is a 58-mm encoder in a hollow-bore construction, and the Model A58SE is a 58-mm shaft encoder available with either a clamping flange or synchro flange.

“Both the A58HE and A58SE encoders are easily designed into a wide variety of applications,” says Sarah Walter, electrical engineer and EPC Technical Sales Manager.

“They plug directly into a network with minimal prerequisites, and work in various configurations, including daisy-chaining, and redundant-ring configurations that can continue communication in event of a line break. That makes for quick installation and facilitates data exchange among connected devices, allowing companies to transition to a networked system and facility … and these encoders work with CANopen over EtherCAT, so for users familiar with CANopen technology, implementation will be straightforward.”

The Model A58HE and Model A58SE Absolute Encoders offer:

• EtherCAT Deterministic Communication
• Multi-turn resolution up to 43 bits
• Up to 16 bits of single turn resolution
• 58-mm-diameter housing; bores sizes up to 0.375 in. or 15 mm
• Shaft diameters up to 0.375 in. or 10 mm; durable magnetic technology
• Proven turns counting technology with no gears or batteries
• Operating temperature range of -40° C to 85° C
• Sealing rating of IP65 (on A58SE, 10 mm shaft comes with IP67 sealing)
• Continuous digital position monitoring; ability to retain absolute position after a power outage
• Meet CE/EMC standards for immunity and emissions

Encoder Products Company (EPC) is a leading designer and world-wide manufacturer of motion sensing devices. EPC began operations in 1969, producing a line of custom encoders from a small, home-based shop. Today, EPC is the largest privately-held encoder manufacturer in North America, producing a complete line of incremental and absolute rotary encoders and accessories in a 100,000 ft² vertically integrated facility in Idaho. For more information, visit encoder.com.