MSR 40

A new modular steel tape rotary encoder from RSF Elektronik is now available for measurement applications with diameters of 6 inches (150mm) to 6 feet (~2m). Named the MSR 40, this encoder is available in North America through Heidenhain Corp. Applications for this economical ring encoder include rotary tables, telescopes and medical instrumentation. The steel tape of the MSR 40 utilizes the proven single-field scanning principle with 200µm grating pitch, offering ease of mounting with high achievable angular resolution. Accuracy of the system is plus or minus 30µm/m with an operating temperature of 0 degrees C to +50 degrees C. With these specifications, this encoder is distinguished by its successful operation at high speeds, especially noteworthy for large measurement applications. The novelty of the MSR 40 encoder is that it links the ends of the steel tape together with one of two joining mechanisms, depending upon the application. Measurement through a full 360 degrees is thus possible. The MOR version uses a steel ring tensioning cleat for encoders mounted to a steel surface thus allowing for thermal expansion; the MER version uses a rubber gasket with a low-profile tensioning cleat for other mounting surfaces. Depending on the shaft diameter, line counts of up to 20,000 are available on the MSR 40. All versions offer quasi-absolute positioning via distance-coded reference marks or homing via a single reference mark. The MSR 40 is easily mountable and is available in both standard and custom sizes.