Quadrature shaft encoder source
 

I have seen in a couple threads that teams have used a specific Quadrature encoder for various projects. The one I can't seem to find is usually red, about the same size as a standard rotary pot but has four pins coming out of the back.
What I would like to know is where I can purchase these. I have searched several sites including: McMaster, SparkFun, All Electronics and Jameco with no results. I don't mind using a different encoder, I just like the size and configuration of that one. If you would recommend a different encoder for FRC, please advise on that as well.

Re: Quadrature shaft encoder source
 

Check US Digital. Might not be that exact one, but they have quite the selection.

Re: Quadrature shaft encoder source
 

Yep, I looked there as well and they do have some very useful options. We are considering them as well. What can you say when you can get an encoder for less than $20 that has 360 PPR? Sweet!!!

Thanks Kevin!

Re: Quadrature shaft encoder source
 

www.grayhill.com available at digikey. Geared correctly, the 63R128 and 63R256 are pretty good encoders.

-Kevin

Re: Quadrature shaft encoder source
 

Red that looks like a potentiometer sounds like this part number:

EM14C0D-E28-L064S

From digikey

It's only 64 counts per rev but a complete package.

( If you are adventurous and can build your own interrupter wheel... or HAVE an interrupter wheel look into the honeywell HOA0901 which is an all inclusive dual channel digital detector with both phases in a single package. It doesn't need to be aligned and doesn't use a 4 equal phase scheme so a small number of interrupts doesn't work well, but I tested it with 8 interrupts and it seemed to work. Not accurate enough for an inkjet printer but probably accurate enough for any FIRST application you might have.)

But... I digress...

Steve Alaniz

Re: Quadrature shaft encoder source
 

Kevin and Steve,

Thank you both. These are great solutions. We will consider them both as well as the ones Kevin Sevcik suggested ,when it comes time to determine if we can use the KOP GTS or if we NEED directional information as well, and choose a Quadrature solution.

Thanks again.

Re: Quadrature shaft encoder source
 

Bilbo,

If you have any "one turn" needs, the USDigital Absolute analog 'pots' are amazing.(no stop and 0-1023 range at less than the cost of a precision pot)

They also stock some really useful Quadrature to Analog interfaces if you'd rather not deal with interupts.(etachs for velocity + direction, edacs for position even in multi turn scenarios)

Re: Quadrature shaft encoder source
 

Cool! Thanks for the suggestion.
The great thing is, there is always more than one way to "skin a cat". We will just have to figure out which way is the best match for our design needs and budget.