encoder suitability

[dandonegan]

I have installed many of the Automation Direct encoders. I have never had a single problem with one and you know what you're getting. Also come with phenomenally nice cables at a reasonable price.

dan

[martyscncgarage]

I have installed many of the Automation Direct encoders. I have never had a single problem with one and you know what you're getting. Also come with phenomenally nice cables at a reasonable price.

dan

Right on Dan!

[automan1223]

have any of you folks seen these encoders by this company. I like the large bore spindle encoders but am confused with all the details, signals etc.

http://www.roundssencoder.com/pro_cnc.asp

thoughts ? other than trying to order from China....might be a while.

[martyscncgarage]

have any of you folks seen these encoders by this company. I like the large bore spindle encoders but am confused with all the details, signals etc.

http://www.roundssencoder.com/pro_cnc.asp

thoughts ? other than trying to order from China....might be a while.

I think on something specialized like that, you should call them. You want a 5VDC, Differential, Line Driver output encoder. 2000 line count per rev minimum (8000 counts per rev in quadrature)

You can just cut and pasted Centroid's Encoder guidelines and email it to them along with the dimensions you require.

Its what I would do. I don't think they are gonna be cheap, but it looks like they can definitely provide them. But they have to provide you with the correct part number for their encoder and quote you.

[dandonegan]

I think it would be more cost-effective to install a timing pulley on your large spindle. Mount your encoder on the bracket and install the same diameter pully as encoder shaft size connected with a small timing belt.

Look up posts about lathe encoders.

Dan

[francoCNC]

Hi Guys - this is an awesome thread! Thank you for providing all of this information. I'm seeing a few important points:
1. Only use Line Driver Output Model encoders with eight wires ( A /A B /B Z /Z +V 0V)
2. Use 2000 line encoders (8000 counts per revolution)
3. Avoid buying junk

Did I miss anything?

Also - it seems that connecting the encoder to the Acorn board is the easy part. Does anyone have any thoughts about physically mounting the encoders? Perhaps it would be good to start a few new threads dedicated to mounting encoders on specific machine types? What do you think?

-Franco

[martyscncgarage]

Hi Guys - this is an awesome thread! Thank you for providing all of this information. I'm seeing a few important points:
1. Only use Line Driver Output Model encoders with eight wires ( A /A B /B Z /Z +V 0V)
2. Use 2000 line encoders (8000 counts per revolution)
3. Avoid buying junk

Did I miss anything?

Also - it seems that connecting the encoder to the Acorn board is the easy part. Does anyone have any thoughts about physically mounting the encoders? Perhaps it would be good to start a few new threads dedicated to mounting encoders on specific machine types? What do you think?

-Franco

Hi Franco,
You covered it pretty well.
As for mounting, unless you are lucky enough to find a machine with an encoder already mounted and timed 1:1 with the spindle and just have to update it (as in the case of my Emcoturn 120 lathe) I think each application will be different. Knee mills seem difficult to fit an encoder to the spindle.

As long as you use timing pulleys and 1:1 and just find a way to mount it you should be fine. Your idea of maybe a thread with pictures might be a good one to show ideas to others.

What's your first macine going to be? Start a thread with it!

[DICKEYBIRD]

Does anyone have any thoughts about physically mounting the encoders? Perhaps it would be good to start a few new threads dedicated to mounting encoders on specific machine types?

Here's how I put a Heidenhain on an ORAC: viewtopic.php?f=60&t=1045

[francoCNC]

DICKEYBIRD - Nice job on the ORAC!

martyscncgarage - What is the proper type of cable to use when connecting encoders and where is the best place to buy it?

Thanks,
-Franco

[DICKEYBIRD]

Don't mean to butt in but the best place is right here at good ol' Centroid. If memory serves it's a buck and a quarter a foot and you KNOW it's the right stuff!

...and thanks for the compliment.