POSITAL (www.posital.com) has announced that its Optocode (OCD) absolute rotary encoders now come with a new combined interface that allows simultaneous communication of both incremental and absolute position data. The company’s new interface is specifically developed to deliver cost effective and robust point-to-point communications between various kinds of programmable logic controllers (PLC) and encoders.

Utilizing the synchronous serial interface (SSI) standard, the new interface relays absolute rotary position information to the PLC. While the shaft is rotating at a maximum speed of 16,384 pulses per rotation, the encoder also sends a series of electronic pulses. An optional index pulse can also be transmitted once every complete rotation.

Meanwhile, the incremental pulses can be transmitted via a push/pull connection or over an RS-422/485 link. Responding to a request from the controller, the dual-personality encoders offer access to absolute rotary position information while accurately measuring the rotational velocity in real-time and making it suitable for monitoring rotating machinery or for motor control applications.

These encoders also offers other new features such as optimized diagnostic reporting through the SSI connection or through case-mounted LED’s, and an optional case-mounted push-button that enables the operator to re-set the absolute position readout’s zero-position (datum).

The new OCD encoders keeps the previous generation devices’ best features, including accuracy, highly effective shaft and connection seals (up to IP66 protection), precision (up to 216 steps per turn) and single- or multi-turn capabilities. Available in hollow, solid and hub shaft variants, the units can be supplied with a cable exit or a connector.