INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Code Disc

A precision optical disc with encoded patterns used in high-resolution encoders to convert angular position into digital signals.

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Component Specifications

Definition
A code disc is a critical optical component in rotary encoders, featuring precisely etched or printed patterns (such as incremental lines or absolute codes) on a transparent or reflective substrate. It works in conjunction with a light source and photodetector array to generate electrical pulses corresponding to rotational displacement, enabling accurate position, speed, and direction measurement in industrial automation systems.
Working Principle
The code disc rotates with a shaft, interrupting or modulating light from an LED or laser source. Photodetectors read the pattern transitions, converting them into quadrature signals (A, B, and sometimes Z for index/reference). Incremental discs produce periodic pulses per revolution, while absolute discs have unique codes for each angular position, providing immediate position data without homing.
Materials
Typically made from glass (e.g., borosilicate) for high precision and thermal stability, or polymers (e.g., polycarbonate) for cost-effective applications. Coatings may include chromium for opaque patterns or anti-reflective layers. Alternative materials: quartz for extreme environments, metal for rugged applications.
Technical Parameters
  • Max RPM 10,000 RPM
  • Accuracy ±5 arcseconds to ±30 arcminutes
  • Diameter 10mm to 100mm
  • Resolution Up to 65,536 counts per revolution (16-bit)
  • Pattern Type Incremental, absolute (Gray code, binary)
  • Operating Temperature -40°C to +85°C
Standards
ISO 16063-1, DIN 32712

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Code Disc.

code disc encoder disc rotary encoder optical encoder position sensor angular measurement incremental encoder absolute encoder industrial automation Code Disc in Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

High-Resolution Encoder

A precision measurement device that converts angular position or motion of a rotary table into digital signals with high accuracy.

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Encoder (Servo)

A precision feedback device that measures the rotational position, speed, and direction of a servo motor shaft.

View Product Details

Feedback Encoder

A sensing device that converts mechanical motion into electrical signals to provide position, speed, and direction feedback in servo systems.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Pattern degradation due to wear or contamination
  • Misalignment causing signal errors
  • Thermal expansion affecting accuracy
  • Mechanical damage from shock/vibration
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Contamination (dust, oil) on disc surface
Failure: Signal dropout or erroneous readings
Mitigation: Use sealed encoder housings, regular cleaning protocols, and contamination-resistant coatings.
Trigger: Bearing wear or shaft misalignment
Failure: Eccentric rotation causing inconsistent pulse generation
Mitigation: Implement precision bearings, alignment checks during installation, and runout tolerance monitoring.

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Pattern placement accuracy within ±1 micron, radial runout < 10 microns
Test Method
Optical comparator inspection, laser interferometry for angular accuracy, environmental cycling tests per IEC 60068-2

Buyer Feedback

★★★★☆ 4.6 / 5.0 (13 reviews)

"Testing the Code Disc now; the technical reliability results are within 1% of the laboratory datasheet."

"Impressive build quality. Especially the technical reliability is very stable during long-term operation."

"As a professional in the Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing sector, I confirm this Code Disc meets all ISO standards."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between incremental and absolute code discs?

Incremental discs have evenly spaced lines generating pulses for relative position tracking, requiring a reference point. Absolute discs have unique patterns for each position, providing immediate absolute angle data without homing.

How do environmental factors affect code disc performance?

Temperature changes cause thermal expansion/contraction, potentially altering pattern accuracy. Contamination (dust, oil) can obscure optical readings. Vibration may induce signal noise. Proper sealing, material selection (e.g., low-CTE glass), and mounting mitigate these issues.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

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Coalescing Filter Element Code Disc/Scale