rotary encoders, what the hell?

[freddy]

folks,

can anyone explain me function of 'rotary encoders'? according to the schematics it looks like coupled switches, according to PCBs, fotos etc like pots. I'm trying to find a similiar expression in my language, but I can't since I dunno how these work :-/

cheers,

freddy

[DriftZ]

yes, you turn them like pots, but they work like switches :)

They send x 'pulses' (ONs & OFFs) per revolution.

But unlike a pot, they are endless, you can keep turning & turning & turning.....

that's all

[freddy]

hmm, I think I got the point. To make sure, when I turn it a step, it is connected (ON), when I turn it further a step, it's disconnected (OFF), right? with an exact timing and a Schmitt cicruit you can even make a square signal, eh? :)

[pilo]

2 square signal! :) and they are not synchronized, so you know in which way the enc is turning!!