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What did we use before encoders?

What did we use before encoders?

What did we use before encoders?

(OP)
I have embarresed my self in front of a young electrical engineer. I can not remember the name of the analogue equivalent of an ecoder?

RE: What did we use before encoders?

You mean potentiometer?

RE: What did we use before encoders?

If you're measuring angle then perhaps a resolver or an RVDT. If measuring speed then a tacho generator would fit the bill.
  

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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!
 

RE: What did we use before encoders?

(OP)
Thanks cottyUK,
It was a tacho that I was thinking of.

RE: What did we use before encoders?

You can still get tach generators.  I just used one on a recent project as feedback on a shunt-wound DC motor.  They're getting harder to find now though.

A resolver is also an option if you want to get fancy.

Don
Kansas City

RE: What did we use before encoders?

... or an inductive probe targeted at gear teeth.

- Steve

RE: What did we use before encoders?

A resolver or a synchro?

RE: What did we use before encoders?

In the good old days, mid seventies, I use to just use a magnet attached to a rotating shaft and a loop of wire.  Connect to a volt meter and wait for the needle to deflect.  Counting the spikes in a minute gives you RPM.  Same principle applies today, just fancier equipment.

Good luck at high speeds!

Kenneth J Hueston, PEng
Principal
Sturni-Hueston Engineering Inc
Edmonton, Alberta Canada

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