Lika Electronic SMAR4:
The Lika Electronic SMAR4 off-axis absolute magnetic encoder now supports SPI alongside its existing SSI and BiSS C-mode interfaces. This update gives engineers more flexibility when integrating precise rotary position measurement into compact, high-performance equipment.
Combining a miniature readhead with a thin magnetic ring, the SMAR4 is designed for applications where space, weight, speed and integration flexibility are critical.
A Compact Encoder for Space-Constrained Applications
The SMAR4 combines an open PCB readhead with an MRA magnetic ring in a compact, frameless and bearingless assembly. Its miniature design allows it to fit into installations with limited space.
The readhead measures just 22.5 mm wide, 6 mm deep and 3.9 mm high. The thin, axially magnetised ring has an outer diameter ranging from 34 mm to 65 mm, with through-bore options from 8 mm to 47 mm.
This configuration makes the SMAR4 suitable for applications that require accurate rotary position feedback without the bulk of a conventional housed encoder.
Expanded Interface Options for Easier Integration
One of the key updates is the addition of the SPI interface. The SMAR4 now offers SPI, SSI and BiSS C-mode, giving engineers greater flexibility when selecting an interface for their system architecture.
The encoder supports both 3.3 V and 5 V power supplies. Its SPI interface and 3.3 V supply option facilitate integration into embedded systems, integrated circuits, microcontrollers and OEM equipment.
For designers working with compact electronics, these options can help simplify system integration and provide greater flexibility during the development process.
High Resolution and High-Speed Performance
Despite its compact size, the SMAR4 offers performance suited to demanding motion-control applications.
Key specifications include:
Resolution: Up to 20 bits, equivalent to 1,048,576 counts per revolution
Maximum rotational speed: Up to 24,000 rpm
Operating temperature: -25°C to +100°C
Power supply: 3.3 V or 5 V
Interfaces: SPI, SSI and BiSS C-mode
Ring outer diameter: 34–65 mm
Through-bore diameter: 8–47 mm
These characteristics make the SMAR4 a potential solution for applications that require high-resolution absolute position feedback, fast rotation and a compact mechanical footprint.
Contactless, Frameless and Bearingless Design
The SMAR4 uses contactless magnetic measurement. Its frameless and bearingless construction eliminates the need for an encoder shaft, bearings, flange and housing.
Because measurement is contactless, the sensing components are not subject to mechanical contact wear. This design can be particularly valuable in applications where compact integration and long-term operating reliability are important.
The modular configuration also gives equipment designers flexibility when integrating the encoder into their mechanical assemblies.
Applications Across Advanced Industries
The SMAR4 is designed for a range of applications where compact dimensions and precise rotary measurement are important, including:
Robotics and cobots: Position feedback for robotic joints and compact mechanisms.
Hollow-shaft and direct-drive torque motors: Integration into motor assemblies with limited installation space.
Brushless and servo motors: Rotary position measurement in high-performance motion systems.
Drones and UAVs: Compact sensing solutions for weight-sensitive equipment.
Video surveillance systems: Position measurement in rotating mechanisms.
Medical and laboratory equipment: Encoder integration into compact precision instruments.
The combination of interface flexibility, contactless sensing and a small mechanical footprint makes the SMAR4 worth considering for engineers developing next-generation motion systems.
Customisation Options
Lika Electronic also develops customised encoder solutions to meet specific application requirements. Options can be tailored to parameters such as size, shape, shaft configuration, resolution, and interface or connection.
This flexibility can help engineers address design constraints that standard encoder configurations may not fully meet.
Looking for the Right Encoder for Your Application?
At Wesense Motion, we help engineers identify motion-control components that meet their system requirements. As a supplier of precision encoders and motion-control solutions, our team can assist with product selection and technical specifications.
Contact Wesense Motion to learn more about Lika Electronic encoders and find the right solution for your application.
