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Motion control sensors, also known as position sensors or rotary encoders, detect movement from a nearby object and return an electrical signal to the detector which converts it into a readable signal for digital devices. These sensors are critical for precisely measuring the angular position of an object, allowing for exact monitoring and control of mechanical displacements. They are important in applications that require regulation of outputs such as speed, position, frequency, and volume.

Rotary encoders transform mechanical motion into electrical signals, functioning either as incremental or absolute encoders:

### **Incremental Encoders**

These encoders produce a set number of discrete digital pulses per rotation of the encoder shaft. The position is identified by counting these pulses, which correspond to specific mechanical movements. Speed determination is calculated based on the number of pulses per time unit, typically counted by a separate counter, regulator, or PLC. After a complete rotation, the position feedback from a single-turn encoder resets to zero.

### **Absolute Encoders**

Unlike incremental types, absolute encoders output a definitive value for the encoder shaft's position at any time, providing this data immediately upon power-on. There are two types of absolute encoders:

- Single-turn Encoders: Track the position within one full revolution of the shaft.
- Multi-turn Encoders: Count the total number of shaft revolutions, resetting when a predefined limit (commonly 4,096 revolutions) is exceeded. These encoders often require additional gearing to track multiple turns and can be either optical or magnetic in design.

## **Types of Motion Control Sensors**

### **Rotary Encoders**

Also known as shaft encoders, these are electromechanical sensors that monitor the position of the shaft or axle, and then send it back digitally. Rotary encoders are commonly used in many automation applications that require precise shaft unlimited rotation

### **Linear Transducers**

Linear transducers are used to measure movement in a straight line. They convert displacement into an electrical signal, that's proportional to the amount of displacement. These sensors are commonly used in very harsh, cold climates, and applications where accuracy is critical.

### **Magnetic Pickups**

Magnetic pickups are sensors which detect the speed of a moving part. This motion is picked up by the magnetic field, which induces a measurable AC voltage. These sensors are often used as components of speedometers or tachometers, which are integral parts of engines and industrial equipment.

### **A Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT)**

Often used to accurately measure linear displacement. There are many types of these motion controllers, and they have different armatures, temperature range, built in electronics and stroke lengths and have been specifically designed to measure multiple targets. It can be used in a range of applications within industry or research as it can easily be modified to fulfil different sensing tasks.

### **Incremental Encoder**

[Incremental encoders](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/automation-control-gear/sensors/motion-control-sensors/?applied-dimensions=4294641862) produce a specific number of pulses per revolution and measure the amount of linear or angular distance moved. Each time the encoder is powered on it starts from zero, irrespective of where the shaft is, so it measures the shaft to a specific reference point.

### **Absolute Encoder**

[Absolute encoders](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/automation-control-gear/sensors/motion-control-sensors/?applied-dimensions=4294636854) provide an absolute numerical value for every angular position for every revolution which makes them handy for exact measurement of mechanical angular displacement. Even when the system is without power, they can give precise position values when the encoder is powered back up.

## **Applications of Motion Control Sensors**

Motion control sensors and the subsequent types of sensor are incredibly useful in industrial settings in which the rotation of shafts or motion of moving parts need to be accurately set and measured to ensure the smooth operation of factory processes.

- Aerospace industry
- Measurement & Testing
- Robotics
- Automation & Control
- Assembly Lines

Rotary encoders and motion control sensors are popular due to their high durability, incredible accuracy, and long life.

## **How to Order Motion Control Sensors From RS?**

[RS](https://au.rs-online.com/web/) is a trusted supplier and distributor of high-quality motion control sensors, offering an extensive range from leading brands such as [RS PRO](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/automation-control-gear/sensors/motion-control-sensors/?applied-dimensions=4291780588), [BALLUFF](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/automation-control-gear/sensors/motion-control-sensors/?applied-dimensions=4294967102), [Baumer](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/automation-control-gear/sensors/motion-control-sensors/?applied-dimensions=4294967074), [Omron](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/automation-control-gear/sensors/motion-control-sensors/?applied-dimensions=4294965904), and [Sick](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/automation-control-gear/sensors/motion-control-sensors/?applied-dimensions=4294965547). Our motion control sensors are designed for accurate and reliable performance, crafted to meet stringent standards for efficiency and seamless integration into diverse systems.

Business account customers who purchase motion control sensors online from RS will get to enjoy free delivery on all orders over $40 (excluding GST). A delivery fee of $10 is charged for orders under this amount. For private accounts and guest customers, delivery is complimentary for orders over $80 (excluding GST), with a $12.95 fee applicable to smaller orders.

## **Delivery Information for Australia**

To ensure timely delivery of your motion control sensors, please place your orders by 5 pm AEST from Monday to Friday. We offer next working day delivery for items stocked locally, though some regional areas may experience extended delivery times. For a comprehensive overview of all our delivery services, including options like same-day delivery and consolidated shipments, please visit our [delivery information](https://au.rs-online.com/web/content/support/all-articles/delivery) page.



Explore our wide selection of motion control sensors, including rotary encoders. Free next day delivery available. Shop RS online now for great offers.

Motion Control Sensors | Absolute, Rotary Encoders & More

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BALLUFF Linear Measuring Linear Transducer

RS PRO Incremental Incremental Encoder HTL Inverted Signal, 10mm Shaft

RS PRO Incremental Incremental Encoder HTL Inverted Signal 12mm Shaft

Shop our range of Incremental Encoders. Browse our latest Incremental Encoders offers. Find out more today at RS.

Incremental Encoders | RS

<p>Incremental Encoders are used in a wide range of industrial applications. Incremental Encoders are one of the most common types of Motion Control Sensor used in industry today. They are a popular choice as they last longer, function better, and are incredibly accurate. </p><p>RS offer an extensive selection of high-quality Incremental Encoders from industry-leading brands including Bourns, Broadcom, Gefran, Hengstler, ifm electronic, Kubler, Omron, Sick, TE Connectivity, Telemecanique Sensors, Turck, Wachendorff, and of course, RS PRO.</p><h2>How does an Incremental Encoder work? </h2><p>Incremental Encoders produce a specific number of pulses per revolution and measure the amount of linear or angular distance moved. Each time the encoder is powered on it starts from zero, irrespective of where the shaft is, so it measures the shaft to a specific reference point. They possess some key features including</p><ul><li>Extremely long life</li><li>High efficiency</li><li>Low power requirements</li><li>Easy to install and maintain</li><li>Safe and convenient</li></ul><p>Browse the broad range of Incremental Encoders RS have to offer and order today for next day delivery</p>

Shop our range of Linear Transducers. Browse our latest Linear Transducers offers. Find out more today at RS.

Linear Transducers | RS

<p>Linear Transducers are used in a wide range of industrial applications. Linear Transducers are one of the most common types of Motion Control Sensor used in industry today. They are a popular choice as they last longer, function better, and are incredibly accurate. </p><p>RS offer an extensive selection of high-quality Linear Transducers from industry-leading brands including Balluf, Baumer, Gefran, Honeywell, Kubler, Sick, Vishata, and of course, RS PRO.</p><h2>How does a Linear Transducer work?</h2><p>Linear Transducers are a type of Motion Control Sensor or Position Sensor that measures movement in a straight line. Linear Transducers convert displacement into an electrical signal relative to the amount of displacement. Linear Transducers are commonly used in very harsh, cold climates, and under high vibration and shock levels such as power turbines, satellites, hydraulics, and any other application where accuracy is critical. They possess some key features including</p><ul><li>Extremely long life</li><li>High efficiency</li><li>Low power requirements</li><li>Easy to install and maintain</li><li>Safe and convenient</li></ul><p>Browse the broad range of Linear Transducers RS have to offer and order today for next day delivery</p>

Buy from our selection of Motion Control Sensors from BALLUFF. At RS, we strive to give you the best offers from our supplier and to promptly deliver in the shortest time.

BALLUFF Motion Control Sensors | RS

Shop our range of Absolute Encoders. Browse our latest Absolute Encoders offers. Find out more today at RS.

Absolute Encoders | RS

<p>Absolute Encoders are used in a wide range of industrial applications. Absolute Encoders are one of the most common types of Motion Control Sensor used in industry today. They are a popular choice as they last longer, function better, and are incredibly accurate. </p><p>RS offer an extensive selection of high-quality Absolute Encoders from industry-leading brands including Allen Bradley, Broadcom, Gefran, Hengstler, Kubler, Omron, Sick, Telemecanique Sensors, Vishay, and of course, RS PRO.</p><h2>How does an Absolute Encoder work? </h2><p>Absolute Encoders provide an absolute numerical value for every angular position for every revolution which makes them handy for exact measurement of mechanical angular displacement. Even when the system is without power, Absolute Encoders can give precise position values when the encoder is powered back up. They possess some key features including</p><ul><li>Extremely long life</li><li>High efficiency</li><li>Low power requirements</li><li>Easy to install and maintain</li><li>Safe and convenient</li></ul><p>Browse the broad range of Absolute Encoders RS have to offer and order today for next day delivery</p>

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