Sin/Cos Analog Scales
Sin/Cos scales output analog sine and cosine signals that provide high-resolution position feedback. These are typically found on premium scales and require specialized processing.
Signal Characteristics
- Sine and Cosine outputs: Analog signals 90° out of phase
- Voltage range: Typically ±1V differential
- Frequency: Varies with scale movement speed
- Resolution: Can be interpolated to very high resolution (0.1µm or better)
Common Pinouts
Heidenhain 15-pin D-sub
- Pin 1: +5V power
- Pin 2: Sin+
- Pin 3: Sin-
- Pin 4: Cos+
- Pin 5: Cos-
- Pin 6: Ref+ (reference mark)
- Pin 7: Ref-
- Pin 8: 0V (ground)
- Pin 9-15: Various (sensing, temperature, etc.)
Mitutoyo AT1xx Series
- Similar differential sine/cosine outputs
- Proprietary connector types
- May include temperature compensation
Compatible Scales
- Heidenhain LIF, LIP, LIC series
- Mitutoyo AT100, AT115 series
- Renishaw TONiC series
- High-end Magnescale scales
TouchDRO Compatibility
TDA-4xx series only:
- Requires specific firmware for sin/cos processing
- Built-in interpolation for high resolution
- Automatic signal conditioning
Not supported:
- DIY adapters (lack analog processing capability)
- Basic glass scale adapters
Advantages
- Very high resolution through interpolation
- Excellent noise immunity (differential signals)
- Smooth operation at all speeds
- Built-in error detection capabilities
Considerations
- More expensive than quadrature scales
- Requires compatible adapter hardware
- May need calibration for optimal performance
- Temperature compensation may be required
Setup Notes
- Use high-quality shielded cable
- Minimize cable length when possible
- Ensure proper grounding and shielding
- Configure interpolation factor in TouchDRO