Encoder

From Free net encyclopedia

An encoder is a device used to change a signal (such as a bitstream) or data into a code. The code may serve any of a number of purposes such as compressing information for transmission or storage, encrypting or adding redundancies to the input code. translating from one code to another. This is usually done by means of a programmed algorithm, especially if any part is digital, while most analogue encoding is done with analog circuitry.

Examples:

a rotary encoder is a sensor or transducer for converting rotary motion or position to a code of electronic pulses.
a multiplexer combines multiple inputs into one output.
a Compressor is used to encode data into a smaller form.
a linear encoder is a sensor or transducer for converting linear motion or position to a series of electronic pulses. Linear encoder technologies include capacitive, inductive, eddy current, magnetic, and optical. Optical technologies include shadow, self imaging and interferometric. Linear encoders are used in metrology instruments and high precision machining tools ranging from digital calipers to coordinate measuring machines

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