Capacitive rotary encoder
Netzer Precision VLM capacitive rotary encoder
Multi-turn absolute hollow-shaft capacitive encoder that holds position through power loss, so no re-homing.
Key specifications
| Bore (max) | 25 mm |
|---|---|
| Outer diameter | 59.7–59.7 mm |
| Speed (max) | 4,000 rpm |
| Resolution (max) | 32 bit |
| Accuracy | up to +/-0.01 deg |
| Interface | SSI, BiSS-C |
| Technology | Electric Encoder (contactless capacitive) |
| Temp | -40 to +80 C |
Series ranges as published; individual models vary. The full datasheet, drawings and CAD models are available on request.
Netzer Precision VLM model codes
Published model codes in the VLM range, with key figures from the manufacturer's data. Search this page for your part number, or send it to us for availability, pricing and lead time.
| Model code | Outer diameter (mm) | Resolution (bit) | Inner diameter (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| VLM-60 | 60 | 17-21 | 25 |
Typical applications
What a capacitive rotary encoder is
A capacitive rotary encoder measures angle by sensing changes in capacitance between patterned electrodes on a rotor and stator, usually printed circuit boards. As the rotor turns, the electric field pattern changes, and electronics convert it into absolute position. With no magnets or optical parts, capacitive encoders are immune to magnetic fields, light and many contaminants. They are typically thin, lightweight and hollow, which suits integration into motors, joints and gimbals with limited space.
When engineers choose a capacitive rotary encoder
Choose a capacitive encoder for slim, lightweight absolute feedback where magnetic fields are strong or weight matters, such as motor-integrated feedback, robot joints, gimbals, aerospace and medical devices. The trade-offs are moisture and electric field sensitivity: water, condensation or conductive debris between electrodes can affect readings, and mounting tolerances matter. For very wet environments, inductive encoders may be more robust. For highest accuracy, optical encoders lead.
How to specify the Netzer Precision VLM
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right VLM variant:
- Absolute resolution (bits)
- Accuracy (arcmin or arcsec)
- Outer diameter and bore (mm)
- Thickness and mass (mm, g)
- Interface: SSI, BiSS or SPI
- Mounting tolerances
- Environment: moisture, temperature and EMC
Common mistakes to avoid
- Exposing electrodes to condensation or conductive dust
- Ignoring mounting tolerances on rotor and stator
- Assuming magnetic immunity means immunity to electric interference
- Skipping calibration after assembly
Netzer Precision VLM: frequently asked questions
What is the Netzer Precision VLM?
Multi-turn absolute hollow-shaft capacitive encoder that holds position through power loss, so no re-homing. Published series figures include bore 25 mm, outer diameter 59.7 mm, outer diameter 59.7 mm, speed 4,000 rpm. It is available through our supply network, and our engineers can confirm the right variant for your application.
Who makes the Netzer Precision VLM?
The Netzer Precision VLM is made by Netzer Precision (Netzer Precision Position Sensors) available through our supply network. Send us your requirement for pricing, lead time, datasheets and CAD.
What model codes are in the Netzer Precision VLM range?
The VLM range includes VLM-60. The table on this page lists each published model code with its key figures. Send us the code you use, or the one you need to replace, and our engineers will confirm availability, lead time or the closest equivalent.
What is the bore of the Netzer Precision VLM?
The published series maximum bore is 25 mm. Individual models and sizes in the VLM range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
What are the advantages of capacitive encoders?
Capacitive encoders are thin, lightweight, immune to magnetic fields and often hollow, which suits integration into motors and joints. They give absolute position with low power. They are sensitive to moisture between electrodes, so sealing or a protected location is needed.
Are capacitive encoders affected by magnetic fields?
No. They sense electric fields between electrodes, so they are not affected by motor magnets, brakes or nearby magnetic fields. This is an advantage in motor-integrated or high-current environments. Good grounding, cable screening and separation from switching power electronics still help, because strong electrical noise can affect them.
Further reading: Magnetic vs capacitive vs optical encoders · How to select an encoder · Encoders and feedback
Often compared with
Engineers specifying this series often compare it with:
Other capacitive rotary encoder series
Spec builder
Configure Netzer Precision VLM
Select every part you need, answer the questions an applications engineer would ask, and see your summary before we ask for any details.
- 1Products
- 2Performance
- 3Environment
- 4Volumes
- 5Your spec
Engineer support
Need Netzer Precision VLM or a complete system around it?
Tell us what you need, whether it is this part, an equivalent or a complete axis built around it. An engineer will review your requirements and reply, normally within one working day.
- Reviewed by an engineer, not an autoresponder
- Like-for-like and better-fit alternatives
- Standard, modified and custom options
Prefer to configure it? Use the spec builder.