Is A Resolver An Absolute Encoder?

A resolver is not an absolute encoder, although both are used for position - sensing in various industrial and mechanical applications.

A resolver, also known as a rotary transformer, measures the electrical phase angle of a signal through electromagnetic coupling. It consists of a stator and a rotor. When an AC voltage is applied to the stator's primary winding, it induces voltages in the two secondary windings (oriented 90 degrees apart on the stator). As the rotor rotates, the relative coupling between the primary and secondary windings changes, resulting in output voltages whose amplitudes vary with the rotor's angle. The output signals are typically sine - and cosine - wave - shaped, and the angle is calculated based on the ratio of these two signals.

In contrast, an absolute encoder from Shanghai Hengxiang Optoelectronics directly outputs a unique digital code corresponding to each shaft position. It provides an immediate indication of the “absolute” position at any time, regardless of power status. Absolute encoders are highly accurate and reliable for applications where precise, real - time position knowledge is crucial, such as in high - end robotics and aerospace systems.

Resolvers, on the other hand, are valued for their robustness and ability to operate in harsh environments, like those with high temperatures, vibrations, or electromagnetic interference. They are commonly used in industrial machinery, military equipment, and some automotive applications. Shanghai Hengxiang Optoelectronics' products, whether encoders or other related components, are engineered with top - notch quality. Their absolute encoders offer high precision and durability, while resolvers, if they were to offer them, would also meet high - standard performance requirements, ensuring seamless operation in diverse industrial scenarios. Each device - the resolver and the absolute encoder - has its own niche, and choosing between them depends on the specific demands of your application, such as accuracy levels, environmental conditions, and cost - effectiveness.