CUI announces the release of its AMT series modular encoder, designed with proprietary, capacitive, code-generating technology that represents a breakthrough in cost vs. resolution. AMT102 or 103 VersaPak model comes standard with an onboard dip switch with 16 selectable resolution options ranging from 48 to 2048 PPR. It also includes an index pulse as a standard feature. The output is TTL voltage and the operating temperature is -40 °C to 100 °C. The AMT is available in two mounting options: AMT102 is radial (straight orientation) and AMT103 is axial (right angle orientation).

The AMT is unique among modular incremental encoders because it is capacitive (the same technology used in digital calipers) and not optical. This eliminates handling of the sensitive optical disk and issues related to LED burnout from the photo diode. With the disk built-in to the top cover, the assembly is very quick and easy. The assembly involves snapping the shaft adapter over a selected sleeve on the back shaft of a dc motor, aligning and mounting the selected base unit with one of the mounting hole options, and snapping the top cover into place in seconds. To aid in assembly, all VersaPak models include 9 different color coded sleeves to fit most shaft diameters from 2mm to 8mm plus and two simple mounting tools. Base plates are pre-drilled with 9 (AMT102) or 7 (AMT103) mounting hole options, including a wide base plate for AMT102 to handle 1.27" or 1.81" bolt circles.

Other benefits of the AMT include low current consumption (less than 10mA), the broad operating temperature range (-40 °C to 100 °C), low-profile (9mm), light-weight mechanical design, RoHS compliancy, and high resolution (2048PPR) for the package size. The design is a drop-in replacement for other industry standard optical units, but is easier to assemble and approximately half the height.

Both AMT102 VersaPak and AMT103 VersaPak units are available immediately through Digi-Key at $29.95/pc for 1 piece. Production quantities starting at 1000 pieces. Cables and connectors in a variety of standard requirements are also available.