Space Robotics Encoders: Reliable Position Sensing in Orbit

VLS-60

The Netzer VLS-60 Absolute Rotary Encoder delivers up to 22-bit resolution with accuracy reaching 0.01 mdeg, all in an ultra-thin (<8 mm), lightweight (<16g) package. Designed for high-end space and cleanroom automation, its contactless capacitive technology ensures reliable, wear-free performance in precision positioning applications. The hollow, low-mass design supports seamless integration into satellite instruments, aerospace gimbals, and vacuum-compatible robotics, enhancing overall efficiency and accuracy.

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Features

COTS space-tested for mission-critical reliability
Outstanding accuracy in high-precision rotary feedback
Robust protection against EMI, RFI, and magnetic interference
Seamlessly integrates with innovative hollow shaft architecture
Optimized compact design for low-profile applications
Engineered for longevity in extreme temperature environments

Unique Values

Space tested
High precision
Immunity to Magnetic
MTBF 15

Technical Data

Technical Drawing

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General

Angular resolution 17-22 bit
Nominal position accuracy ±0.010°
Repeatability 1.4 mdeg / 4.9 Arcsec
Maximum operational speed 4,000 rpm
Measurement range Single-turn, unlimited. Software Shaft-turn
Built In Test BIT Optional
Rotation direction Adjustable CW/CCW (Default same direction from bottom side of the encoder)

Mechanical

Allowable mounting eccentricity ±0.1 mm
Allowable axial mounting tolerance ±0.2 mm
Rotor inertia 2,000 gr · mm²
Total weight 16 gr
Outer Ø /Inner Ø / Height 60 / 25 / 6 mm
Material (stator / rotor) Polyimide
Nominal air gap (stator, rotor) 0.6 mm

Electrical

Supply voltage 5V ±5%
Current consumption ~90 mA
Interconnection Cable (standard 250mm)
Communication SSi / BiSS-C
Output code Binary
Serial output Differential RS-422
Clock frequency 0.1- 5.0 MHz
Position update rate 35 kHz (Optional - up to 375 kHz)

Environmental

EMC IEC 6100-6-2, IEC 6100-6-4
Operating temperature range -40°C to +105°C (Optional -55°C to +125°C)
Storage temperature -55°C to +125°C
Relative humidity 98% Non condensing
Shock endurance / functional 100g 6msec saw-tooth per IEC 60068-2-27:2009 40g 11msec saw-tooth per MIL-810G
Vibration functional 7.7grms @ 20 to 2000 Hz per MIL-810G Category 24
Protection Parylene conformal coating: improved low outgassing, reduces Tin Whiskers risk.
Low out-gassing TML < 1%, CVCM < 0.1%
Radiation tested for TID = 30KRAD. SEE 1E11 p/cm²/s protons @200MeV

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OD
- 25 mm
- 60 mm
- 80 mm
- 100 mm
- 140 mm
- 170 mm
Output
- BiSS
- SSi
Resolution
- 17 bit
- 18 bit
- 19 bit
- 20 bit
- 21 bit
- 22 bit
- 23 bit
Bit
- BIT
Shaft-turn Counter
- 4,096
- 8,192
- 16,384
- 32,768
Cable Options
- Jacket and shielded cable
- Shielded cable
- Wires only
Cable length
- 250 mm Flying leads - 28AWG
- 500 mm Flying leads - 28AWG
- 750 mm Flying leads - 28AWG
- 1000 mm Flying leads - 28AWG
Rotor Type
- End Shaft - Single Screw Rotor
- Hollow Shaft Encoder