Relationship Between Magnetic Pole Pitch, Resolution, and Maximum Speed of Magnetic Scales

Magnetic scales measure displacement using a series of magnetic poles; the pole pitch, resolution, and maximum motion speed are interrelated and determine measurement accuracy and usability.

Pole pitch defines distance between adjacent poles: smaller pitch increases resolution and sensitivity but raises manufacturing difficulty.

Resolution is the smallest detectable displacement and depends on pole pitch and readout sampling. Higher resolution requires better linearity and temperature stability.

Maximum motion speed is limited by scale characteristics and readout performance—smaller pole pitch can reduce maximum speed, and readout systems must provide sufficient sampling frequency and processing speed.

Choose magnetic scales by balancing pole pitch, resolution, and required motion speed for the application.