Data sheet

L-9517-9563-05-C

ATOM™ miniature encoder system

ATOM™ is the world’s first miniature encoder • Miniature package:

8.35 mm × 12.7 mm × 20.5 mm
with filtering optics, providing improvements (7.3 mm × 12.7 mm × 20.5 mm for FPC version)
in dirt immunity, signal stability and reliability
• Highest signal stability and dirt immunity in
for linear, partial arc and rotary applications. its class due to filtering optics
ATOM features a number of other advances that help maintain
• Long-term stability provided by integral
signal stability, including integral Auto Gain Control and
Auto Gain Control (AGC) and Auto Offset
Auto Offset Control, along with a highly reliable IRED light source,
Control (AOC)
making the product suitable for use in applications demanding
quality and dependability. • Low sub-divisional error (SDE) and jitter
The miniature readhead is available in 2 formats: hi-flex cable output
• Easy installation and diagnostics using the
or flexible-printed circuit (FPC) output. The FPC version helps reduce
set-up LED on the readhead
overall package size, with a reduced Z-height and easy cable routing.
ATOM is available with a range of high-accuracy optical linear, • Fast, simple calibration at the push of a button
partial arc and rotary scales, including conventional glass spars,
‘unbreakable’ stainless steel tape scales and glass discs. Installation
• Auto-phase optical reference mark
has been simplified by an intuitive set-up LED on the readhead • Available in 20 µm and 40 µm scale
that indicates signal level. Optical reference mark phasing and pitch versions
incremental signal optimisation can be achieved with the simple
press of a button. • Analogue output direct from the readhead
ATOM is suitable for use in a variety of applications that require • Multiple interpolation options,
compact size, including laser scanners, CMM arms, semiconductor with resolutions to 1 nm
manufacturing, compact linear motors / motion stages, small DDR
torque motors, galvanometers and microscope stages. • Range of high accuracy rotary, partial arc and
ATOM – miniaturisation without compromise. linear scales
Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

System features
High performance
u Need higher speed? u Need improved positional stability and repeatability?
ATOM is the fastest encoder in its class, ATOM has low noise (jitter), allowing users to
with maximum speeds up to 20 m/s and increase servo-loop gain without instability, whilst
a range of high-speed interpolation options reaping other dynamic performance benefits such
for digital versions. as faster settling times and higher acceleration.

u Need higher accuracy? u Need smoother velocity control?

ATOM offers linear tape scales with specified Reduce velocity ripple, improve scanning
overall accuracy to ±5 µm/m at 20 °C, without performance, reduce blur on vision systems and
the need for 2-point compensation that image capturing – all thanks to ATOM’s superior
competitor encoders require. optical scheme and integral AOC.

Lissajous stability
ATOM features a miniaturized version of The result is a Lissajous with high purity, that retains its
Renishaw’s unique filtering optics that are fidelity even when the scale is exposed to contamination:
used in the TONiC™ encoder range. ideal for applications where reliability is critical.
This optical scheme is tuned to a specific spatial
frequency, so it rejects other harmonics, including
those caused by dirt or other contaminants.

Product range
u 20 µm and 40 µm readheads with high-flex cable:
For general purpose applications. Superior quality cable
tested to 20 million flex cycles.
u 20 µm and 40 µm readheads with FPC cable:
Side exit FPC cable allows the smallest overall package size.
u Stainless steel tape scale (RKLF):
Linear scale that can be wrapped around drums,
arcs or shafts with radii down to 26 mm.
u Stainless steel tape scale (RTLF):
High-accuracy linear scale with graduations directly
marked onto the steel tape surface. Available on reels
for cut-to-suit flexibility.
u Glass linear spars (RCLC):
Conventional glass scales, available in lengths up to 130 mm.
u Glass discs (RCDM):
High-accuracy rotary scales with outer diameters down
to 17 mm.

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Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

ATOM interface options

ATOM readheads are available in three versions all giving industry standard analogue output:

u High flex cable terminated with a 15-way D-type connector for high-volume users requiring analogue outputs.
NOTE: A CAL button is not included on this option. Refer to the installation guide for details on how to calibrate.

u High-flex cable terminated with a T-type interboard connector for use with ACi /  Ri /  Ti interfaces.

u FPC connector for use with ACi interface or direct connection to user electronics.

ACi interfaces are a range of high performance, miniature,

open interpolator subsystems. They bring unparalleled
price-performance benefits to today’s motion systems that
need fine resolution coupled to high speed performance in
an ultra compact, open format, small footprint solution and
have provision for calibrating the system. Digital interpolation
down to 10 nm at up to 40 MHz clocked output is available.
FPC or cable input versions available.

Ri interfaces are contained within an industry standard

15-way D-type connector shell, including CAL button.
They offer digital interpolation down to 50 nm (clocked) and
0.5 µm (non-clocked). Analogue variants are also available.

Ti interfaces are designed for applications that require

higher speed, lower SDE, digital interpolation down
to 1 nm resolution and include a CAL button.
Clocked outputs have been optimised for speed and
performance at all resolutions for industry-standard
controllers. Analogue variants are also available.

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 Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

ATOM readhead dimensions Dimensions and tolerances in mm

Set-up 6.45 (Cabled version)

LED* 5.4 (FPC version)
Readhead
2 10.25
datum faces 1.4 (40 µm version)
1.9 (20 µm version)

12.7 8.7
†
4.85 

No hole here on 4.15 Mounting face

Readhead / scale Ø9 max
FPC variant
orientation
2 3 off mounting holes FPC cable
Ø2.5 min through
16.5 4.4

20.5 8.5

R > 20 Dynamic bend radius

R > 10 Static bend radius
5 min
Ø3
.5
ma
x

Identification marks for readhead manufacture only.

Notches will vary depending on readhead type.

* On FPC variants the set-up LED cut-out is circular.

†
 Not optical centreline.

Maximum speed 40 µm readhead - 20 m/s (−3dB)

20 µm readhead - 10 m/s (−3dB)

Readhead output signals

Interboard 15-way
JST  FPC
connector D-type
(on interboard) (F)
(T) (D)
Function Signal Colour Pin Pin Pin Pin
5V Brown 11 4 9, 10 4, 5
Power‡
0V White 5 13 3, 6, 11, 14 12, 13
+ Red 4 9 5 9
Cosine V1
− Blue 3 5 4 1
Incremental
+ Yellow 7 12 2 10
Sine V2
− Green 6 14 1 2
+ Violet 10 2 13 3
Reference mark V0
− Grey 9 8 12 11
Set-up VX Clear 12 6 16 6
Remote CAL CAL Orange 8 10 15 14
Shield - Screen Cable ferrule Cable ferrule Readhead body Case
Do not connect - - 1, 2 1, 3, 7, 11 7, 8 7, 8, 15
‡
 All power connections can be used either to minimise voltage drop down the cable or incorporate voltage sensing.

 Only available on interboard connector.

Pin 1

Pin 1 1 13

2 14
Pin 12

JST connector Interboard connector FPC connection 15 way D-type plug

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 Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

RKLF tape scale installation drawing Dimensions and tolerances in mm

40 µm version
(Yaw tol. ±1°)
0.36

(Roll tol. ±1°)

20 µm version 0.22
(Yaw tol. ±0.5°)
0.18 Reference mark
Offset 2.02 ±0.25 Set-up LED

50 50 Scale datum edge

13

6
15
End clamp
30
(Pair A-9523-4015)
FPC cable
Reference mark Readhead/scale orientation
(Pitch tol. ±1°)
0.36 Scale thickness 0.15
(including adhesive)

Calibration rideheight:
Forward direction of readhead 2.5 ±0.08 (40 µm version)
relative to scale 2.5 ±0.04 (20 µm version)
Operating rideheight:
2.5 ±0.11 (40 µm version)
2.5 ±0.055 (20 µm version)
For detailed installation drawings refer to www.renishaw.com/atomdownloads.
For further information on the use of RKLF scale for partial arc applications refer to the RKL partial arc scale data sheet
(Renishaw part no. L-9517-9897).

Technical specifications
Material Hardened and tempered martensitic stainless steel fitted with a
self-adhesive backing tape
Form (H × W) 0.15 mm × 6 mm (including adhesive)
Scale pitch 20 μm and 40 μm*
Reference mark Auto-phase optical reference mark repeatable to unit of
resolution throughout specified speed and temperature range.
Customer de-selectable reference marks at 50 mm spacing.†
Reference mark in the centre of scale for lengths < 100 mm.
Accuracy (at 20 °C) RKLF20-S / RKLF40H-S ±5 μm/m
RKLF40-S ±15 μm/m
Linearity (at 20 °C)  RKLF20-S / RKLF40H-S ±2.5 μm/m achievable with two point error correction
RKLF40-S ±3 μm/m achievable with two point error correction
Installation temperature +10 °C to +35 °C ‡
Coefficient of thermal expansion Matches that of substrate material when scale ends fixed by
(at 20 °C) epoxy mounted end clamp.
Length 20 mm to 1 m in 10 mm increments
1 m to 10 m in 1 m increments
Overall length = measuring length + 70 mm
Scale length = measuring length + 40 mm
Mass 4.6 g/m
End fixing Epoxy mounted end clamps (A-9523-4015)
Approved epoxy adhesive (A-9531-0342)
Scale end movement typically < 1 μm **
* 20 µm not suitable for partial arc applications.
†
 Only selected reference mark is bi-directionally repeatable.
‡
 Ensure that the scale and end clamps are installed following the installation process described in the ATOM ™ linear encoder system installation guide
(Renishaw part no. M-9696-9723).

 Maximum recommended axis length 1 m for 20 μm systems.
** To limit maximum tension in the scale (CTEsubstrate − CTEscale) × (Tuse extreme − Tinstall) ≤ 550 μm/m where CTEscale = ~ 10.1 μm/m/°C.
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ATOM encoder system

RTLF tape scale installation drawing Dimensions and tolerances in mm

40 µm version
(Yaw tol. ±1°)
0.36

(Roll tol. ±1°)

20 µm version 0.22
Offset 1.02 ±0.25 (Yaw tol. ±0.5°)
Set-up LED
0.18
Reference mark
Reference mark

50 50 Scale datum edge

8
Readhead/scale orientation
4.5 12
Datum clamp
FPC cable

(Pitch tol. ±1°)

Scale thickness 0.41
0.36

Calibration rideheight:
Forward direction of readhead
relative to scale 2.5 ±0.08 (40 µm version)
2.5 ±0.04 (20 µm version)
Operating rideheight:
2.5 ±0.11 (40 µm version)
2.5 ±0.055 (20 µm version)

For detailed installation drawings refer to www.renishaw.com/atomdownloads.

Technical specifications
Material Hardened and tempered martensitic stainless steel fitted with a
self-adhesive backing tape
Form (H × W) 0.41 mm × 8 mm (including adhesive)
Scale pitch 20 μm and 40 μm
Datum fixing Adhesive datum clamp A-9585-0028 secured with Loctite® 435
Reference mark Auto-phase optical reference mark repeatable to unit of
resolution throughout specified speed and temperature range.
Customer deselectable reference marks at 50 mm spacing.*
Reference mark in the centre of scale for lengths < 100 mm.
Accuracy (at 20 °C) RTLF20-S / RTLF40H-S ±5 μm/m
RTLF40-S ±15 μm/m
Coefficient of thermal expansion 10.1 ±0.2 µm/m/°C †
(at 20 °C)
Length 20 mm to 1 m in 10 mm increments
1 m to 10 m in 1 m increments ‡
Scale length = measuring length + 6 mm (without optional end covers)
Mass 12.2 g/m
* Only selected reference mark is bi-directionally repeatable.
 Substrate coefficient of thermal expansion does not need to match that of the scale.
†

 Maximum recommended axis length 1 m for 20 µm systems.

‡

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ATOM encoder system

RCLC glass spar installation drawing Dimensions and tolerances in mm

40 µm version
(Yaw tol. ±1°)
End reference mark Mid reference mark
0.36
head orientation head orientation

20 µm version (Roll tol. ±1°)

Readhead datum face (Yaw tol. ±0.5°) 0.22
L / 2
0.18

Offset 1.42 ±0.25 Scale datum edge 6.82 ±0.25

5 Set-up LED

A-9404-4018

Reference mark 6.35

Reference
mark
FPC cable
Adhesive datum clamp
(length 8 -16, width 1- 5 )

Scale thickness 1.1

(Pitch tol. ±1°)

0.36

Forward direction of readhead Forward direction of readhead Calibration rideheight:

relative to scale relative to scale 2.5 ±0.08 (40 µm version)
2.5 ±0.04 (20 µm version)
Operating rideheight:
2.5 ±0.11 (40 µm version)
2.5 ±0.055 (20 µm version)
For detailed installation drawings refer to www.renishaw.com/atomdownloads.

Technical specifications
Material Soda-lime glass fitted with a self-adhesive backing tape
Form (H × W) 1.1 mm × 6.35 mm (including adhesive)
Scale pitch 20 μm and 40 μm
Datum fixing Fillet of adhesive (A-9531-0342) on one side of the scale
Reference mark Auto-phase optical reference mark repeatable to unit of resolution throughout specified
speed and temperature range
Either mid or one end of travel, determined by orientation of the readhead
Accuracy (at 20 °C) ±3 µm
Coefficient of thermal expansion ~8 µm/m/°C
Length (mm)
Overall length (L) 10 18 30 55 80 100 105 130
Measuring length 7 15 27 52 77 97 102 127

Mass 13.9 g/m

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ATOM encoder system

RCDM rotary disc installation drawing Dimensions and tolerances in mm

Centre of alignment band
Set-up LED
10.25 ± ‘F’

Glass disc

‘A’ ± ‘E’

Reference mark

Forward Centre of alignment band

direction of disc
Black mask on
(increasing count)
reverse of disc
FPC cable underneath
Alignment band incremental and
(Roll tol. ±1°) reference track.
D1
0.22

D2

D3

(Pitch tol. ±1°)

*Operating rideheight:
0.36 2.5 ±0.11 (40 µm version)
2.5 ±0.055 (20 µm version)

For detailed information see the

ATOM ™ rotary encoder systems
installation guide (Renishaw
Calibration rideheight *:
2.3 ±0.1 part no. M-9693-9717).
2.5 ±0.08 (40 µm version)
2.5 ±0.04 (20 µm version)

Radial tolerance Longitudinal tolerance

Line count Optical
Disc size † D1 D2 D3 A E (mm) F (mm)
diameter
(mm) 20 µm 40 µm (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) 20 µm 40 µm 20 µm 40 µm
(mm)
version version version version version version
17 - 1 024 3.275 8.1 16.9 13.04 10.63 - 0.1 - 0.1
20 - 1 250 3.275 11 19.9 15.92 12.07 - 0.1 - 0.1
25 - 1 650 6.46 16.1 24.9 21.01 14.62 - 0.125 - 0.075
27 - 1 800 9.625 18 26.9 22.92 15.57 - 0.125 - 0.075
30 4 096 2 048 12.8 21.15 29.9 26.08 17.15 0.1 0.125 0.075 0.125
36 5 000 2 500 12.8 26.9 35.9 31.83 20.03 0.125 0.175 0.075 0.2
50 7 200 3 600 25.5 40.9 49.9 45.84 27.03 0.125 0.2 0.075 0.2
56 8 192 4 096 25.5 47.25 55.9 52.15 30.19 0.125 0.2 0.1 0.2
68 10 000 5 000 25.5 58.55 67.9 63.66 35.94 0.15 0.2 0.125 0.3
108 16 384 8 192 50.9 99.2 107.9 104.3 56.26 0.2 0.2 0.225 0.3
†
 Special disc sizes available on request.

Technical specifications
Material Soda-lime glass
Form 2.3 mm thick
Reference mark Single reference mark
Graduation accuracy
Disc size (mm) 17 20 25 27 30 36 50 56 68 108

Graduation accuracy
15.81 12.95 9.82 9 7.91 6.49 4.5 3.95 3.24 2.78
(arc seconds)

Coefficient of thermal ~8 µm/m/°C

expansion
Nominal outer diameter 40 μm 17, 20, 25, 27, 30 ,36, 50, 56, 68, 108
(mm) 20 μm 30, 36, 50, 56, 68, 108

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Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

ACi interface Dimensions and tolerances in mm

FPC variant dimension drawing

FPC input connector

CAL pad JST output connector *

Component area
14.5 6 4 4.6

12.5 5.6

Pin1

25 10 17 15.75

Pin1

5.6

Component area

4
2 mounting CAL pad
pillars 4.5 × 45° 2 2 mounting holes
M3 through
25

Component area

7.7
9.5
6.25

* 10 way JST, GH crimp connector. 1.25 mm pitch. Suitable for cable size 26 to 30 AWG.

Cable variant dimension drawing Dimensions and tolerances in mm

Cable input connector

CAL pad JST output connector †

Component area
14.5 6 4 4.6

10 5.6

25 5 17 15.75

Pin1

5.6

Component area

4
2 mounting CAL pad
pillars 4.5 × 45° 2 2 mounting holes
M3 through
25
Component area

7.7
9.5
6.25

2.5

 10 way JST, GH crimp connector. 1.25 mm pitch. Suitable for cable size 26 to 30 AWG.
†

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ATOM encoder system

ACi interface Dimensions and tolerances in mm

PCB mounting variant dimension drawing

16.1

10.1 4
CAL pad

5.6
12.5

25 17

5.6

Component area
14.5
CAL pad
4.5 × 45° 2 mounting holes
M3 through
25

5.6 4
Component area

ACi speed
20 µm system
Maximum speed (m/s) Lowest recommended
0020 0040 0080 0100 0200 0400 1000 2000 counter input frequency
(1 µm) (0.5 µm) (0.25 µm) (0.2 µm) (0.1 µm) (50 nm) (20 nm) (10 nm) (MHz)

6.5 6.5 6.5 5.8 3 - - - 40

6.5 6.5 4 3.2 1.6 - - - 20

- - - - - 0.35 0.13 0.06 12

6.5 4 2 1.6 0.8 - - - 10
- - - - - 0.18 0.06 0.03 6

4 2 1 0.8 0.4 - - - 5

- - - - - 0.12 0.04 0.02 4

40 µm system
Maximum speed (m/s) Lowest recommended
0020 0040 0080 0100 0200 0400 1000 2000 counter input frequency
(2 µm) (1 µm) (0.5 µm) (0.4 µm) (0.2 µm) (0.1 µm) (40 nm) (20 nm) (MHz)

13 13 13 11.6 6 - - - 40

13 13 8 6.4 3.2 - - - 20

- - - - - 0.7 0.26 0.12 12

13 8 4 3.2 1.6 - - - 10

- - - - - 0.36 0.12 0.06 6

8 4 2 1.6 0.8 - - - 5

- - - - - 0.24 0.08 0.04 4

Angular speed
Angular speed depends on disc optical diameter – use the following equation to convert to rev/min:
V × 1000 × 60
Angular speed (rev/min) = where V = maximum linear speed (m/s) and D = optical diameter (mm)
pD

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ATOM encoder system

Ri interface Dimensions and tolerances in mm

Dimension drawing

CAL / AGC push button

4-40 UNC × 2
switch access hole Ø3.15

8
15
33.3 40

1
R > 20 Dynamic bend radius 52 8
R > 10 Static bend radius
6 min 16

Speed
Clocked outputs
Ri0100, Ri0200 and Ri0400 interfaces have clocked outputs.
Customers must ensure they comply with the lowest recommended counter input frequency.

Maximum speed (m/s)

Lowest recommended
20 µm system 40 µm system
counter input frequency
0100 0200 0400 0100 0200 0400 (MHz)
(0.2 µm) (0.1 µm) (50 nm) (0.4 µm) (0.2 µm) (0.1 µm)
- 0.8 0.4 - 1.6 0.8 12

- 0.5 0.25 - 1 0.5 10

0.8 0.4 0.2 1.6 0.8 0.4 6

0.5 0.25 0.12 1 0.5 0.24 4

Non-clocked outputs
Ri0004, Ri0008, Ri0020 and Ri0040 interfaces have non-clocked outputs.

20 µm system 40 µm system Lowest recommended

counter input frequency
Maximum speed Maximum speed
Interface type Interface type (MHz)
(m/s) (m/s)

0004 (5 µm) 10 0004 (10 µm) 20

0008 (2.5 µm) 10 0008 (5 µm) 20 Encoder velocity (m/s) ×4

safety
Resolution (µm)
0020 (1 µm) 10 0020 (2 µm) 20 factor

0040 (0.5 µm) 10 0040 (1 µm) 20

Analogue outputs
40 µm system - 20 m/s (−3dB)
20 µm system - 10 m/s (−3dB)

Angular speed
Angular speed depends on disc optical diameter – use the following equation to convert to rev/min:
V × 1000 × 60
Angular speed (rev/min) = where V = maximum linear speed (m/s) and D = optical diameter (mm)
pD

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ATOM encoder system

Ti interface Dimensions and tolerances in mm

67
Dimension drawing
62 16
Diagnostic LED
(Ti0004 –Ti20KD) Requires 2 mm 8
hex key
CAL/AGC push switch
access hole Ø2.4

8
15
33.3 40

9
1
R > 20 Dynamic bend radius 6 min 4-40 UNC × 2
Cover plate
R > 10 Static bend radius

Speed
20 µm system
Maximum speed (m/s) Lowest recommended
Ti0004 Ti0020 Ti0040 Ti0100 Ti0200 Ti0400 Ti1000 Ti2000 Ti4000 Ti10KD Ti20KD counter input
5 µm 1 µm 0.5 µm 0.2 µm 0.1 µm 50 nm 20 nm 10 nm 5 nm 2 nm 1 nm frequency (MHz)

10 10 10 6.48 3.24 1.625 0.648 0.324 0.162 0.065 0.032 50

10 10 10 5.4 2.7 1.35 0.54 0.27 0.135 0.054 0.027 40

10 10 8.1 3.24 1.62 0.81 0.324 0.162 0.081 0.032 0.016 25

10 10 6.75 2.7 1.35 0.67 0.27 0.135 0.068 0.027 0.013 20

10 9 4.5 1.8 0.9 0.45 0.18 0.09 0.045 0.018 0.009 12

10 8.1 4 1.62 0.81 0.4 0.162 0.081 0.041 0.016 0.0081 10

10 6.48 3.24 1.29 0.648 0.324 0.13 0.065 0.032 0.013 0.0065 8

10 4.5 2.25 0.9 0.45 0.225 0.09 0.045 0.023 0.009 0.0045 6

10 3.37 1.68 0.67 0.338 0.169 0.068 0.034 0.017 0.0068 0.0034 4

4.2 0.84 0.42 0.16 0.084 0.042 0.017 0.008 0.004 0.0017 0.0008 1

40 µm system
Maximum speed (m/s) Lowest recommended
Ti0004 Ti0020 Ti0040 Ti0100 Ti0200 Ti0400 Ti1000 Ti2000 Ti4000 Ti10KD Ti20KD counter input
10 µm 2 µm 1 µm 0.4 µm 0.2 µm 0.1 µm 40 nm 20 nm 10 nm 4 nm 2 nm frequency (MHz)

20 20 20 12.96 6.48 3.25 1.296 0.648 0.324 0.13 0.064 50

20 20 20 10.8 5.40 2.7 1.08 0.54 0.27 0.108 0.054 40

20 20 16.2 6.48 3.24 1.62 0.648 0.324 0.162 0.064 0.032 25

20 20 13.5 5.4 2.7 1.34 0.54 0.27 0.136 0.054 0.026 20

20 18 9 3.6 1.8 0.9 0.36 0.18 0.09 0.036 0.018 12

20 16.2 8 3.24 1.62 0.8 0.324 0.162 0.082 0.032 0.0162 10

20 12.96 6.48 2.58 1.296 0.648 0.26 0.13 0.064 0.026 0.013 8

20 9 4.5 1.8 0.9 0.45 0.18 0.09 0.046 0.018 0.009 6

20 6.74 3.36 1.34 0.676 0.338 0.136 0.068 0.034 0.0136 0.0068 4

8.4 1.68 0.84 0.32 0.168 0.084 0.034 0.016 0.008 0.0034 0.0016 1

Analogue speed
40 µm system - 20 m/s (−3dB)
20 µm system - 10 m/s (−3dB)

Angular speed
Angular speed depends on disc optical diameter – use the following equation to convert to rev/min:
V × 1000 × 60
Angular speed (rev/min) = where V = maximum linear speed (m/s) and D = optical diameter (mm)
pD
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ATOM encoder system

Interface signals
ACi FPC and cable variant interface (digital output only)
Input Output
Cable FPC JST
Function Signal
Colour Pin Pin Signal Pin
5V Brown 4 7, 8 5V 9
Power*
0V White 13 3, 6, 11, 14 0V 10
+ Red 9 12 + 1
V1 A
− Blue 5 13 − 2
Incremental
+ Yellow 12 15 + 3
V2 B
− Green 14 16 − 4
+ Violet 2 4 + 5
Reference mark V0 Z
− Grey 8 5 − 6
Set-up VX Clear 6 1 X 7
Remote CAL CAL Orange 10 2 CAL 8
Shield - Screen Cable ferrule - - -
Do not connect - - 1, 3, 7, 11 9, 10 - -
* All power connections can be used either to minimise voltage drop down the cable or incorporate voltage sensing.

1 13 Pin 1 Pin 16 Pin 1 Pin 10

2 14

Cable variant input connector ACi FPC input connector ACi JST output connector

ACi PCB mounting variant interface (digital output only)

Input Output
Function Signal Pin Signal Pin
5V 9 5V 6
Power
0V 2 0V 5
+ 4 + 8
V1 A
− 6 − 10
Incremental
+ 3 + 7
V2 B
− 1 − 9

Reference + 8 + 3
V0 Z
mark − 10 − 1
Remote CAL VX 7 X 4
Shield CAL 5 CAL 2

Pin 1

ACi PCB input Pin 2

connector
Pin 9 Pin 1
ACi PCB output
connector
Pin 10 Pin 2

Pin 10

Pin 9

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ATOM encoder system

Interface signals
Ri and Ti interfaces
Digital Analogue
Function Signal Pin Signal Pin
5V 7, 8 5V 4, 5
Power *
0V 2, 9 0V 12, 13
+ 14 + 9
A V1
− 6 − 1
Incremental signals
+ 13 + 10
B V2
− 5 − 2
+ 12 + 3
Reference mark Z V0
− 4 − 11
+ 11
Alarm… E - -
− 3
Set-up X 1 VX 6
Remote CAL - - CAL 14
Shield - Case - Case
Do not connect - 10, 15 - 7, 8, 15
* All power connections should be used either to minimise voltage drop down the cable or incorporate voltage sensing.
…
 The alarm signal can be output as a line driven signal or 3-state.
Select
   the preferred option at time of ordering.

15 9 15 9
8 1 8 1

Ri connector Ti connector

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ATOM encoder system

General specifications

Power supply 5 V ±10% ATOM readhead typically < 50 mA

ATOM with ACi typically < 100 mA
ATOM with Ri typically < 100 mA
ATOM with Ti typically < 200 mA
NOTE: Current consumption figures refer to unterminated systems.
For analogue outputs a further 10 mA in total will be drawn when terminated
with 120R.
For digital outputs a further 25 mA per channel pair (eg A+, A−) will be
drawn when terminated with 120R.
Power from a 5 Vdc supply complying with the requirements for SELV of
standard IEC 60950-1.
Ripple 200 mVpp maximum@frequency up to 500 kHz
Temperature Storage −20 °C to +70 °C
Operating 0 °C to +70 °C
Humidity 95% relative humidity (non-condensing) to IEC 60068-2-78
Sealing Cable variant IP40
FPC variant IP20 (with lid fitted)
Ri interface IP20
Ti interface IP20
Acceleration Operating 400 m/s², 3 axes
(scale and readhead)
Shock (scale and readhead) Operating 1000 m/s², 6 ms, ½ sine, 3 axes
Vibration Operating 100 m/s² max @ 55 Hz to 2000 Hz, 3 axes
Mass Cable readhead 4 g
FPC readhead 2.3 g
Cable 18 g/m
Ti interface 100 g
Ri interface 70 g
ACi interface 4 g
Readhead cable 10 core, high flex, EMI screened cable, outside diameter 3.5 mm maximum
Flex life > 20 × 106 cycles at 20 mm bend radius, maximum length 5 m.
(Extension cable up to 25 m when using Renishaw approved extension cable)

UL recognised component
FPC cable 16 core, 0.5 mm pitch, maximum exposed conductor length 2.5 mm,
maximum length 1 m
Connector options Cable variants Interboard connector compatible with the Ri, Ti and ACi (cable variant) interfaces
15-way, D-type connector
FPC 16 core, 0.5 mm pitch, compatible with ACi (FPC variant)
Typical SDE (analogue) 40 µm version < ±120 nm
20 µm version < ±75 nm

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Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

Electrical connections
Grounding and shielding

ACi / customer electronics

FPC readhead
5V
FPC cable

Output signals

0V
Shield
(recommended)

For more information on FPC refer to the installation guide.

Customer electronics
Cable readhead
Connector / interface 5V

Output signals

0V
Shield

IMPORTANT: The shield should be connected to the machine earth (Field Ground).
NOTE: Maximum cable length between interface and customer electronics is 25 m for ACi and Ri and 50 m for Ti depending on clocked output.

Recommended signal termination

Digital outputs Analogue outputs
0V
V0 V1 V2+
Interface 220 pF Customer
120R
A B Z E+ electronics
V0 V1 V2−

Cable Z 0 = 120R 120R

A B Z E−
220 pF

0V
Standard RS422A line receiver circuitry.
Capacitors recommended for improved noise immunity

Remote CAL operation

CAL
Remote operation of the CAL is possible via the CAL pin.
For applications where no interface is used, remote CAL
operation is essential.
0V

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Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

Output specifications
Analogue output signals
All ATOM readheads and Ri and Ti analogue interfaces

Incremental 2 channels V1 and V2 differential sinusoids in quadrature, centred ~ 1.65 V (90° phase shifted)
40 / 20 µm

0.7 to 1.35 Vpp with Green

(V1 +)−(V1 −) LED indication (readhead)
and 120R termination.
0°

(V2 +)−(V2 −)

Reference

1 Vpp

45°
Bi-directionally repeatable.*
(V0 +)−(V0−) Differential pulse V0 centred on 45°.
360° (nom)
(after CAL)

Differential signals V0+ and V0− centred on ~ 1.65 V

* Only calibrated reference mark is bi-directionally repeatable.

Set-up

During normal operation

3.3 V (nom)

Between 50% and 70% signal level, VX is a duty cycle.

Voltage at VX Time spent at 3.3 V increases with incremental signal level.
At > 70% signal level VX is nominal 3.3 V.

0
0 50% Signal level 70% 100%

During CAL routine

> 70% signal > 70% signal

3.3 V

Voltage at VX 1.65 V

0V
Normal operation Incremental Reference Normal operation
calibration mark
calibration
Start of End of
calibration calibration
routine End of routine
incremental
calibration
routine
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ATOM encoder system

Output specifications (continued)

Digital output signals
Form - Square wave differential line driver to EIA RS422A
All ACi interfaces, Ri digital interfaces, and Ti digital interfaces
Incremental* 2 channels A and B in quadrature (90° phase shifted)

Signal period

Resolution

Reference*

Z Synchronised pulse Z, duration as resolution

Bi-directionally repeatable.†

Set-up (ACi interfaces and Ri digital interfaces) Set-up ‡ (Ti digital interfaces only)

3.3 V (nom) 1

Voltage at X Voltage at X

0 0
0 50% Signal level 70% 100% 0 Signal level 100%

Between 50% and 70% signal level, X is a duty cycle. Set-up signal voltage proportional to
Time spent at 3.3 V increases with incremental signal level. incremental signal amplitude.
At > 70% signal level X is nominal 3.3 V.

Alarm*
Differential line driven alarm output (Ri digital interfaces and Ti digital interfaces)

Alarm asserted Alarm asserted

Interface model Interface model
when when
E Ri0004
u < 20% signal
Ri0008 u < 40% signal Ti u > 135% signal
> 15 ms Ri0020 u Overspeed u Overspeed
Ri0040
Ri0100
u < 20% signal
Ri0200
u > 130% signal
Ri0400

3-state alarm ouput (ACi interfaces, Ri digital interfaces, and Ti digital interfaces)
Differentially transmitted signals forced open circuit for > 15 ms when alarm conditions valid.

*  Inverse signals not shown for clarity.

†
 Only calibrated reference mark is bi-directionally repeatable.
‡
 Set-up signal as shown is not present during calibration routine.

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Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

ATOM readhead ATOM 4 F 0 - 000

Scale period Cable length
2 - 20 μm 000 - FPC
4 - 40 μm 020 - 200 mm
030 - 300 mm
050 - 500 mm
080 - 800 mm
Head type
100 - 1000 mm
F - FPC: for use with FPC variant ACi or customer PCB
150 - 1500 mm
T - Cabled: interboard connector (for use with cable variant ACi, customer PCB, Ri or Ti interfaces)
200 - 2000 mm
D - Cabled: D-type connector
300 - 3000 mm
500 - 5000 mm

Head gain setting

Head gain RTLF / RKLF RCLC 40 µm rotary discs (mm) 20 µm rotary discs (mm)
setting (tape scale) (glass scale) < 20 20 25, 27, 30 > 30 30 36 50, 56, 68 108
0 ✔ - - - - - - - - -

1 - ✔ - - - ✔ - - - ✔

2 - - - - ✔ - - - ✔ -

3 - - - ✔ - - - ✔ - -

4 - - ✔ - - - ✔ - - -

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Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

RTLF tape scale

Part number
Scale type Scale pitch Length Increments Head gain setting
(where xxxx is the length in cm)*
20 mm to 1 m 10 mm
RTLF20-S 20 µm A-9406-xxxx 0
1 m to 10 m† 1m
40 µm 20 mm to 1 m 10 mm
RTLF40H-S A-9408-xxxx 0
(high accuracy) 1 m to 10 m† 1m
20 mm to 1 m 10 mm
RTLF40 40 µm A-9407-xxxx 0
1 m to 10 m† 1m
†
* Ordering A-9408-0070 for example will result in a length of 70 cm  Lengths greater than 10 m available on request.

RKLF mastered tape scales

Part number
Scale type Scale pitch Length Increments ‡
Head gain setting
(where xxxx is the length in cm) 
20 mm to 1 m 10 mm
RKLF20-S 20 µm A-6767-xxxx 0
1 m to 10 m 1m
40 µm 20 mm to 1 m 10 mm
RKLF40H-S  A-6771-xxxx 0
(high accuracy) 1 m to 10 m 1m
20 mm to 1 m 10 mm
RKLF40 40 µm A-6769-xxxx 0
1 m to 10 m 1m
‡
 Ordering A-6767-0070 for example will result in a length of 70 cm 
 Not recommended for partial arc applications.

RCLC glass scale

Length (mm) 20 µm 40 µm Head gain setting
10 A-9404-2010 A-9404-4010 1

18 A-9404-2018 A-9404-4018 1

30 A-9404-2030 A-9404-4030 1

55 A-9404-2055 A-9404-4055 1

80 A-9404-2080 A-9404-4080 1

100 A-9404-2100 A-9404-4100 1

105 A-9404-2105 A-9404-4105 1

130 A-9404-2130 A-9404-4130 1

RCDM rotary discs (20 µm version) RCDM rotary discs (40 µm version)
Diameter Head gain Diameter Head gain
Part number Part number
(mm) setting (mm) setting
30 A-9405-2030 4 17 A-9405-4017 4
20 A-9405-4020 3
36 A-9405-2036 3
25 A-9405-4025 2
50 A-9405-2050 2
27 A-9405-4027 2
56 A-9405-2056 2 30 A-9405-4030 2
68 A-9405-2068 2 36 A-9405-4036 1
50 A-9405-4050 1
108 A-9405-2108 1
56 A-9405-4056 1
68 A-9405-4068 1
NOTE: Other disc diameters available, contact your
local Renishaw representative for more information. 108 A-9405-4108 1

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Data sheet
ATOM encoder system

ACi interface ACi 0020 A 04 A

Series Options
A - Standard
Interpolation factor
Clocked output option
Resolution 40 - 40 MHz (0020, 0040, 0080, 0100 and 0200 interpolation factors only)
Interpolation
factor 20 µm 40 µm 20 - 20 MHz (0020, 0040, 0080, 0100 and 0200 interpolation factors only)
system system 12 - 12 MHz (0400, 1000 and 2000 interpolation factors only)
0020 1 µm 2 µm 10 - 10 MHz (0020, 0040, 0080, 0100 and 0200 interpolation factors only)
06 - 6 MHz (0400, 1000 and 2000 interpolation factors only)
0040 0.5 µm 1 µm
05 - 5 MHz (0020, 0040, 0080, 0100 and 0200 interpolation factors only)
0080 0.25 µm 0.5 µm 04 - 4 MHz (0400, 1000 and 2000 interpolation factors only)
0100 0.2 µm 0.4 µm
PCB type
0200 0.1 µm 0.2 µm A - FPC input connector
0400 50 nm 0.1 µm B - Cable input connector
C - Pin headers for PCB mounting
1000 20 nm 40 nm
2000 10 nm 20 nm

Ri interface
Analogue: Ri 0000 A 00 A

Digital: Ri 0400 A 12 B
Series Options
Ri B - Standard

Interpolation factor Clocked output option

12 - 12 MHz (0200 and 0400 interpolation factors only)
Resolution
Interpolation 10 - 10 MHz (0200 and 0400 interpolation factors only)
factor 20 µm 40 µm 06 - 6 MHz (0100, 0200 and 0400 interpolation factors only)
system system
04 - 4 MHz (0100, 0200 and 0400 interpolation factors only)
0004 5 µm 10 µm 00 - Non-clocked (0004, 0008, 0020 and 0040 interpolation factors only)
0008 2.5 µm 5 µm
Alarm format
0020 1 µm 2 µm A - Line driven
0040 0.5 µm 1 µm E - 3-state
0100 0.2 µm 0.4 µm
0200 0.1 µm 0.2 µm
0400 50 nm 0.1 µm

Ti interface
Analogue: Ti 0000 A 00 A
Options
A - Vmid - 1.65 V
V - Vmid - 2.5 V

Digital: Ti 0200 A 20 E
Series Options
Ti E - Standard
Interpolation factor
Clocked output option
Resolution
Interpolation 50, 40, 25, 20, 12, 10, 08, 06, 04, 01 (MHz)
factor 20 µm 40 µm
system system Alarm format and conditions
A - Line driven; All alarms
0004 5 µm 10 µm
B - Line driven; low signal, high signal
0020 1 µm 2 µm E - 3-state; All alarms
F - 3-state; low signal, high signal
0040 0.5 µm 1 µm
0100 0.2 µm 0.4 µm
0200 0.1 µm 0.2 µm
0400 50 nm 0.1 µm
1000 20 nm 40 nm
2000 10 nm 20 nm
4000 5 nm 10 nm
10KD 2 nm 4 nm
20KD 1 nm 2 nm

21
Renishaw plc T +44 (0)1453 524524
New Mills, Wotton-under-Edge, F +44 (0)1453 524901
Gloucestershire GL12 8JR E [email protected]
United Kingdom www.renishaw.com

ATOM compatible scales:

RKLF-S self-adhesive mastered tape scale

RTLF-S self-adhesive tape scale

RCLC glass scale

RKLF40-S self-adhesive
tape scale (partial arc)

RCDM glass disc

ATOM compatible interfaces:

ACi interface

Ri interface

Ti interface

ACi interface

For more information refer to the relevant data sheets and installation guides
which can be downloaded from www.renishaw.com/atomdownloads.

For worldwide contact details, visit www.renishaw.com/contact

RENISHAW HAS MADE CONSIDERABLE EFFORTS TO ENSURE THE CONTENT OF THIS DOCUMENT IS CORRECT AT THE DATE OF

*L-9517-9563-05*
PUBLICATION BUT MAKES NO WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE CONTENT. RENISHAW EXCLUDES LIABILITY,
HOWSOEVER ARISING, FOR ANY INACCURACIES IN THIS DOCUMENT.

© 2013 − 2020 Renishaw plc. All rights reserved.

Renishaw reserves the right to change specifications without notice.
RENISHAW and the probe symbol used in the RENISHAW logo are registered trade marks of Renishaw plc in the United Kingdom and other countries.
apply innovation and names and designations of other Renishaw products and technologies are trade marks of Renishaw plc or its subsidiaries. Part no.: L-9517-9563-05-C
All other brand names and product names used in this document are trade names, trade marks or registered trade marks of their respective owners. Issued: 10.2020