
General definition:
A position sensor (also called a movement sensor) makes it possible to accurately know the physical position and / or the speed of the assembly attached to it at a time t. This information is then transmitted to a computing system which will use it for system control or operations control purposes.
The physical position can take several forms: it can be the location of the system in a defined frame of reference, or its state relative to an axis (rotating or tilting).
Speed is obtained simply by deriving this position with respect to time.
Performance and types of sensors:
Sensors can be classified into several categories, the most common of which are:
Precision | The smallest variation that the sensor is able to detect (degree, µm) |
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Reliability | The average variation between two consecutive measurements |
Resistance to environmental conditions | Typically temperature, humidity, dust and shock, corrosion, speed of rotation. |
Technology used | Magnetic or optical, for example. |
Communication interface | There are more than a dozen. |
Resolution | It is measured in bits. Usually between 8 and 16. This corresponds to the number of divisions for a unit of measurement (e.g. 13 bits = 8,192 divisions for 360 °). |
Measuring range | Maximum measurement length or angle of inclination. |
Mechanical concept | The various coupling options, flanges, etc. |
Connectivity | The output connection can be made by cable or connectors (male / female). |
The different types of POSITAL sensors:
IXARC Incremental and Absolute Rotary Encoders

Angular sensors or rotation sensors allow movement to be measured by driving their shaft. POSITAL’s IXARC range offers encoders providing precise and reliable measurements, available with a wide variety of communication interfaces and mechanical options.
Magnetic Encoder Kit

Magnetic technology makes it possible to produce compact, robust and economical angular sensors thanks to the use of innovative multiturn technology as well as a Hall effect sensor.
TILTIX inclinometers

Inclinometers, also called tilt sensors, are intended to measure the angle between an object and gravitational force. Inclinometers are easy to integrate into an application because they do not require any mechanical connection other than the installation itself.
LINARIX Wired Sensors

Linear sensors (also known as encoders or wire-rope sensors) are used to measure distance (in motion). For this, the sensor cable is hooked to the moving part and the box remains fixed.
Position sensors: areas of application

Position and motion sensors are used in almost all fields! Indeed, whether for reasons of safety, efficiency, control of production or yield, etc. it is very often necessary to know the state of the system in order to be able to deduce the actions to be performed.
Often the sensors are used in feedback loops. Again, this component of automation touches multiple areas ranging from machine tools to motors to production machines.
Although it would be tedious and daring to draw up an exhaustive list of the industries and fields concerned, POSITAL suggests that you consult the list of fields of application already encountered in the context of its projects.
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