Answering the needs of engineers and buyers who require reliable, hollow-shaft absolute encoders, this guide highlights five strong options. These devices are well-suited for robotics, automation, and CNC systems where a hollow shaft allows wiring or mechanical access without obstructing installation. Each product is described with its best-use scenario, key outputs, and any notable limitations to help you compare at a glance.
Buyer types this guide helps:
– Systems integrators seeking 360-degree single-turn accuracy with simple digital or analog outputs.
– Designers needing hollow shafts (often 6–12 mm or 8–12 mm) for compact, high‑speed applications.
– Maintenance teams prioritizing robust IP ratings and RS485 or 4–20 mA interfaces for long cable runs.
| Product | Output / Interface | Resolution | Shaft | Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CALT CAS60 Absolute Encoder (Single Turn) | 4-20 mA | 12-bit (4096) | Blind Hollow Shaft 12 mm | 60 mm outer dia |
| CALT EAS60 Single Turn Absolute Encoder | 0-10 V Output | 12-bit (4096) | Blind Hollow Shaft 12 mm | 60 mm outer dia |
| CALT CAS60 Absolute Encoder (RS485) | RS485 | 12-bit (4096) | Blind Hollow Shaft 10 mm | 60 mm outer dia |
| CZCAJKPSV CAS38H12E06LB | RS485 & 4-20 mA | 12-bit (4096) | Blind Hollow Shaft 6 mm | 38 mm outer dia |
| KM60 12 mm Hollow Shaft Absolute Encoder | Switch Encoders (assorted options) | Not specified in data | Hollow Shaft 12 mm | Unknown outer diameter |
CALT CAS60 Absolute Encoder — 4-20 mA Output
The CALT CAS60 provides a 360-degree, single-turn encoding with a 12-bit resolution, delivered via a 4-20 mA analog output. The device uses a blind hollow shaft with a 12 mm bore and a 60 mm outer diameter. Best for: systems that rely on analog process control or remote monitoring where current loops are preferred for interference resistance and long-distance signaling. Caution: the 60 mm body may require adequate mounting clearance in tight enclosures.
Why selected: This model is a straightforward, robust option for analog control loops. It supports simple integration with existing 4-20 mA instrumentation and provides precise 12-bit angular positioning across a full turn. Suitable for linear gantry or conveyor applications where a compact, single-turn encoder is needed.
Limitation: No digital interface is listed; if you need RS485 or a different digital protocol, consider the RS485 variant of CAS60 or another CAM model in this guide.
CALT EAS60 — 0-10 V Output, 12-Bit
The CALT EAS60 is a single-turn absolute encoder with a 12-bit resolution and a wide 18-26 VDC supply. It outputs an analog 0-10 V signal and uses a blind hollow shaft of 12 mm. Best for: integrators needing high‑voltage compatibility and analog position feedback for motor drives or servo systems. Caution: Verify analog signal compatibility with existing controllers to avoid scaling issues.
Why selected: The 0-10 V output makes this model compatible with many standard analog inputs found on motion controllers, enabling quick retrofits in older equipment without digital bus constraints. It maintains compact form with a robust hollow shaft interface for easy installation.
Limitation: The lack of a digital bus means less straightforward remote diagnostics or multi-encoder networking without additional signal conditioning hardware.
CALT CAS60 — RS485 Output, 10 mm Shaft
This variant of the CAS60 family uses RS485 communication with a 360-degree single-turn, 12-bit resolution, and a 10 mm blind hollow shaft. Best for: installations requiring robust multi-drop or long-distance digital communication with noise immunity from RS485 networks. Caution: The smaller shaft diameter (10 mm) may limit mechanical options in tightly constrained assemblies.
Why selected: The RS485 interface enables easy integration into existing fieldbus or PLC networks, particularly in industrial automation setups where multiple encoders feed a common controller. The 4-20 mA option is not available on this version, so digital signaling is the primary path of data transfer.
Limitation: Slightly smaller shaft may affect compatibility with certain couplings or mechanical attachments designed for larger hollow shafts.
CZCAJKPSV CAS38H12E06LB — RS485 & 4-20 mA
The CZCAJKPSV CAS38H12E06LB combines RS485 digital signaling with a 4-20 mA analog output, delivered through a 6 mm blind hollow shaft. Best for: compact systems needing both digital network compatibility and current-loop feedback. Caution: The 6 mm shaft is among the smallest in this list, so it may limit mechanical coupling options.
Why selected: This model offers dual signaling paths, enabling flexible integration across different control architectures. It is well-suited for small equipment panels or compact robotics where both RS485 networking and analog monitoring are advantageous.
Limitation: The small 6 mm shaft may require precision mounting and compatible mechanical interfaces.
KM60 12 mm Hollow Shaft Absolute Encoder
The KM60 is a 12 mm hollow shaft absolute encoder designed for IP65-rated environments. It emphasizes robustness for light industrial applications and offers dependable performance across standard encoder interfaces. Best for: rugged environments where dust, moisture, or spray exposure is possible. Caution: The exact electrical interface (type not specified here) should be verified to ensure it matches your controller’s input requirements.
Why selected: The IP65 rating and 12 mm hollow shaft align well with general purpose automation tasks, offering durability in environments with exposure to contaminants or washdown. It serves as a versatile, weather-resistant option for general machine automation.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Hollow Shaft Absolute Encoders
- Output interface: Choose RS485 for reliable multi-device networks, 4-20 mA for simple analog integration, or 0-10 V for analog compatibility with older controllers.
- Resolution and turn type: Single-turn encoders with 12-bit resolution are common; ensure it meets your angular accuracy and repeatability needs for your application.
- Shaft size and type: Hollow shaft diameters of 6–12 mm provide different mounting options and compatibility with your mechanical design. Verify bore size and mounting clearances.
- Electrical supply: Check supply voltage range (e.g., 10–30 VDC, 18–26 VDC) to match your system power rails and to avoid over/under voltage conditions.
- Environmental protection: IP ratings like IP65 indicate resistance to dust and water jets — essential for industrial or outdoor use. Consider temperature and shock/vibration specs for your environment.
- Mounting and installation: Look for consistent mounting holes, connector types, and gasket compatibility to simplify integration and maintenance.
- Signal integrity and length: If using 4-20 mA, plan for signal loop topology. For RS485, consider cable length and termination requirements to prevent data loss or noise.
FAQ
- What is a hollow shaft absolute encoder?
– It is an encoder with a hollow bore through the shaft, allowing cables or other components to pass through without obstructing shaft motion, while providing absolute angular position data. - When should I choose RS485 over analog outputs?
– Use RS485 for robust digital communication in multi-device networks; choose analog (4-20 mA or 0-10 V) when your controller directly accepts analog signals and you want simple wiring. - What does 12-bit resolution mean for accuracy?
– A 12-bit resolution yields 4096 distinct position values per full rotation, enabling finer angle discrimination than lower-bit encoders. - Is IP65 sufficient for all environments?
– IP65 protects against dust and water jets, suitable for many industrial settings, but harsher environments may require higher IP ratings or additional sealing. - Can I mix hollow shaft encoders with different shaft diameters?
– Mechanical compatibility depends on the bore size and mounting interface; verify shaft diameter and coupling compatibility before integration.
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