Thought to be only one-third the size of other encoders, the sensors are 8.2mm tall, yet capable of resolutions up to 1.2nm and cyclical error of ±20nm. This means unsurpassed motion system performance can be achieved in compact vacuum applications. All models perform at 10-8 torr with negligible outgassing and are resilient to magnetic forces.
The Mercury units have advanced electronics built into their shielded D-sub connectors to give class-leading performance in electrically noisy environments. The range includes encoders with digital, analogue or programmable output. Output is A-quad-B with interpolation to give resolutions to 0.005µm (linear) and 67.1M CPR (rotary).
Power consumption for most models is only of 0.25W, a level of energy efficiency that has the significant side benefit of reducing thermal effects.
Set-up is simplified in many applications because a design feature ensures alignment during bolt-in, while an LED confirms alignment and index location. Using these features, set-up can be finalised in under 30 seconds. Further aiding set-up and use, the index signal is bidirectional and repeatable to each encoder's resolution.
Vacuum-compatible linear and rotary glass scales are available in lengths from 13mm to 2m, and diameters up to 121mm. A range of resolutions is available for various units within the range: for instance, the Mercury II 6000V has a resolution of 5µm–1.2nm, while the Mercury 1500V offers 5µm–0.5µm.
All the Mercury vacuum encoder sensors are vented and constructed with vacuum compatible materials and designed for a 48-hour bake-out at 150 degrees C. Colour-coded bare leads are provided for customer termination.
