8-channel quadrature encoder module from Measurement Computing

Its eight quadrature counters with indicator LEDs support both differential and single-ended inputs, and feature multiple programmable counting modes. The counters have less than 10 ns jitter, and accept input up to 10 MHz. The streaming speed to the PC is software configurable up to 8 MS/s. The USB-QUAD08 can also serve as a high-speed pulse counter for general counting applications. The eight digital I/O bits support up to 42.4 Vpk/50 VDC with clamping diodes for CEMF suppression.

The USB-QUAD08 has detachable screw terminals, and a 37-pin D-sub connector, pin-compatible with Measurement Computing’s PCI-QUAD04. A two-meter long USB cable is included with every USB-QUAD08 module. A one-meter long DB37F to 4 x DB9F (C37F-4X9F-1M) cable for connecting the device to four encoders via the 37-pin D-sub connectors is available as an option.

“The new USB-QUAD08 is truly a price/performance winner,” explains Jim Stevens, Measurement Computing’s vice president of R&D. “With double the channel count, 2.5x the input frequency rate, and up to 48 bits per channel resolution compared to 24 bits per channel; there’s really no comparison between us and our closest competitor. For example, the USB-QUAD08 can take data at 10 MHz for nearly a year without rolling over, whereas the competitor, at 4 MHz will roll over in only 4 seconds!” Jim continued, “Ours also offers additional features, such as frequency and pulse width measurement, as well as both internal and external triggering. Each counter is paired with a matching digital output bit for roll-over events, and two digital bits are available for timer output.”

The Universal Library, programming libraries and drivers for most popular Windows-based programming languages, is included with the USB-QUAD08 module.

The USB-QUAD08 operates under Microsoft Windows 2000/XP/Vista® (32-bit) operating systems.