POSITAL has expanded support for the Synchronous Serial Interface (SSI) across its family of IXARC absolute rotary encoders. The update applies to the company’s modular kit encoders, industrial encoders, and a miniature form factor with a 20 mm diameter. For larger applications, SSI interfaces are available for mechanical configurations including 36 mm compact designs, 58 mm rugged variants, and 78 mm ATEX-certified models.
The SSI communication interface is designed for use in smaller systems where industrial Ethernet or fieldbus solutions are not required. It is a serial communication system that connects sensors directly to digital PLCs or microcontrollers through point-to-point wiring based on RS-422 communication standards. This allows for high transmission rates and can support connections over distances of up to 1,200 m.
Most POSITAL IXARC magnetic encoders utilize tunneling magnetic resistance (TMR) sensors for angular position measurement. TMR sensors offer greater stability, reduced temperature sensitivity, and higher energy efficiency compared to previous Hall effect sensors. For multiturn versions, a rotation counting system is powered by an energy-harvesting Wiegand sensor, which records every shaft rotation in non-volatile memory, even if rotations occur when system power is unavailable. This design eliminates the need for backup batteries.
POSITAL also offers IXARC encoders with a hybrid communications interface that supports both absolute (SSI) and incremental measurements. While absolute measurements are suited for machinery positioning tasks, the dynamic response of incremental encoders is beneficial for monitoring rotational speed and direction. Combining both capabilities in a single device offers flexibility for control system designers.
The operating parameters of POSITAL encoders with an SSI interface can be configured through software updates using the company's UBIFAST programming tool.
Features include:
- SSI interface support extended across the IXARC absolute rotary encoder family.
- Available in multiple form factors, including a 20 mm diameter miniature multi-turn model.
- Larger sizes include 36 mm, 58 mm, and 78 mm explosion-proof (ATEX certified) variants.
- Magnetic versions feature TMR sensors for improved stability and energy efficiency.
- Multiturn models include a battery-free rotation counting system with Wiegand energy-harvesting technology.
- A hybrid interface option combines absolute (SSI) and incremental measurement capabilities.
- Operating parameters are user-programmable via a software tool.
- RS-422 based communication supports connection distances up to 1,200 m.
