This product has been succeeded by the S6 Optical Shaft Encoder.
This next generation product is highly recommended for all new designs and applications. Learn more »




The S2 series high resolution optical shaft encoder is a non-contacting rotary to digital converter. Useful for position feedback or manual interface, the encoder converts real-time shaft angle, speed, and direction into...
| Parameter | Sleeve Bushing | Ball Bearing |
|---|---|---|
| Max. Acceleration | 250000 rad/sec² | 250000 rad/sec² |
| Max. Shaft Speed | 100 rpm | 10000 rpm |
| Max. Shaft Torque | 0.5 ±0.2 in-oz 0.3 in-oz (N-option) |
0.05 in-oz |
| Max. Shaft Loading | 2 lbs. dynamic 20 lbs. static |
1 lb. |
| Bearing Life | > 1000000 revolutions | L10 = (19.3/Fr)³ * Where L10 = bearing life in millions of revs, and Fr = radial shaft loading in pounds |
| Weight | 1.28 oz. | 1.28 oz. |
| Max. Shaft Total Indicated Runout | 0.0015 in. | 0.0015 in. |
| Max. Panel Nut Tightening Torque | 20 in-lbs | 20 in-lbs |
* only valid with negligible axial shaft loading.
The S2 series high resolution optical shaft encoder is a non-contacting rotary to digital converter. Useful for position feedback or manual interface, the encoder converts real-time shaft angle, speed, and direction into TTL-compatible quadrature outputs with or without index. The encoder utilizes an unbreakable mylar disk, metal shaft and bushing, LED light source, and monolithic electronics. It operates from a single +5VDC supply.
The S2 is our first generation ball bearing optical shaft encoder and is available for those customers who have designed it into their products; however, the S6 is recommended for new designs in place of the S2.
The S2 is normally designed for applications of 10 feet or less. For longer cable lengths, adding a PC4 / PC5 differential line driver is recommended.
Three shaft torque versions are available. The standard torque version has a sleeve bushing lubricated with a viscous motion control gel to provide torque and feel that is ideal for front panel human interface applications.
The no torque added option has a sleeve bushing and a low viscosity lubricant (that does not intentionally add torque) for low RPM applications where a small amount of torque is acceptable.
The ball bearing version uses miniature precision ball bearings that are suitable for high speed and ultra low torque applications.
Connection to the S2 series encoder is made through a 5-pin standard connector (sold separately). The mating connectors are available from US Digital with several cable options and lengths.