Agilent Technologies Introduces World's Smallest High-Speed Absolute Encoder Module for Space-Constrained Applications; 15 Percent Thinner Than Predecessor, Device Reduces Assembly Time and Costs for Industrial Automation Equipment.

PALO ALTO, Calif. -- Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE:A) today introduced a new, thinner version of what remains the industry's smallest high-speed absolute encoder module. When installed, a complete AEAS-7500 encoder is only 16 mm thick -- 2.85 mm thinner than the AEAS-7000 absolute encoder Agilent introduced in 2004, yet providing the same performance. Absolute encoders are used in machines that need information about the position of components before any motion occurs.

The AEAS-7500 is targeted at space-constrained industrial automation applications such as servo motors, robotics, machine tools and wafer handlers. The encoder consists of the sensor read head, LED and code wheel. It is provided with a plastic (rather than metal) detector assembly, which means it can be installed with a wider variety of adhesives on more types of case materials.

Compared with traditional absolute encoders, the AEAS-7500 dramatically reduces the number of components needed from approximately 120 to as few as three. This simplifies the customer's supply chain by decreasing inventory, manufacturing and purchasing costs. The AEAS-7500 offers 65,536 absolute positions in a single revolution.

"With the AEAS-7500, Agilent is now able to satisfy manufacturers who have extremely tight space constraints in their housed encoder and servo motor designs," said Chong Khin Mien, vice president of the Motion Control Products Division in Agilent's Semiconductor Products Group.

AEAS-7500 Features

--16 MHz serial synchronous data output for high-speed applications such as servo motors up to 12,000 rpm.

--Eliminates hunting for Most and Least Significant Bits (MSB and LSB).

--Gray code correction to +/- 1 LSB decreases code wheel misalignment errors.

--Serial output reduces wiring costs.

---25 to +85 degrees Celsius operating temperature range.

--Additional sine/cosine analog outputs.

--5V supply voltage.

U.S. Pricing and Availability

Agilent's AEAS-7500-1GSG0 package of LED, sensor read head and code wheel for 16-bit operation is available now through Agilent's direct sales channel and worldwide distribution partners. It is priced at $35 each in 6,000-piece quantities.

Further information on Agilent's motion control products is available at www.agilent.com/view/motioncontrol.

About Agilent Technologies

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE:A) is the world's premier measurement company and a technology leader in communications, electronics, life sciences and chemical analysis. The company's 28,000 employees serve customers in more than 110 countries. Agilent had net revenue of $7.2 billion in fiscal year 2004. Information about Agilent is available on the Web at www.agilent.com.

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