PIHER Introduces Surface Mount Rotary Position Sensor

By DE Editors

PIHER North America is introducing an SMD version of its PT15 Potentiometer. The PS15 Rotary Position Sensor features configurable capabilities for in a 15mm package. 

The sensor offers a surface-mountable solution for detecting changes in angle and position, and converting them into voltage output. It can be processed by standard automated placement equipment and reflow (or lead-free reflow) soldered. For applications where rotor angle is critical, locating pins are available. The PS15 Rotary Position Sensor offers application for both feedback and control where frequent adjustment or feedback is required. The shaftless design allows for employment of different engagement mechanisms, such as a customized shaft, a motor control, a human interface (such as knob) adjustment, or a mechanical arm position locator. The sensor can also control variable outputs including frequency, change in motor speed, or volume.  Typical applications include test and measurement equipment,  consumer electronics, appliances, small engines, robotics, motion controllers,  automation equipment, electronic instrumentation and medical equipment control panels. 

The PS15 Series is available with seven different rotor designs and 15 shaft styles with choice of nine colors in standard or UL94 compatible plastic. This allows PIHER to configure a custom sensing solution. 

An optional detent feature provides further customization. Detents add a “click” sensation for each unique position without affecting the sensor specification or output and prevent accidental rotation.  Piher can design up to 27 different detent configurations within the electrical rotation.   

“The PS15 allows engineers more design freedom because of the significant configurability provided with our wide array of shafts, rotors, and detents,” says Dave Meehan,  applications engineer with PIHER North America. “It is often difficult for engineers to locate all the features they want in a 15mm package size, but we can meet their exact requirements by tooling either a rotor, shaft, and detent configuration.”

Housed in a dust-proof enclosure, the PS15 comes standard with a 240-degree electrical angle, 10k lifecycle,  and linear, log, and anti-log electrical tapers. 

Pricing for the PS15 Rotary Position Sensor starts at $0.46 each in 10k per annum quantities and can be packaged in tape and reel configurations.

For more information, visit Piher.

Sources:  Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.