Maintaining the encoders has become one of the most time-consuming servo tasks. The new design uses readily available, inexpensive parts that should be available for a long time. Setting the coarse synchro on the new encoder is fast and easy. Adjusting and calibrating the new encoder is straightforward. We will make many extra circuit boards and most ICs will be socketed to prevent resoldering.
All components run cool to prevent damage to PC boards.
2.5 Other Improvements We decided to replace the brush-type synchros being used now with a brushless resolver. The new converter chips require a resolver signal, so either the original synchro signal must be converted with an expensive transformer, or a resolver be used. These resolvers are much more reliable and accurate than the existing synchros. We have replaced the cable connecting the encoders and data converter with a fiber-optic link. The fiber is cheaper, longer lasting, and more resistant to noise than the copper cable.