Providing an alternative to optical encoders, the AS5304 and AS5306 start-and-play, incremental linear magnetic encoders target motion control applications in harsh environments. The chips require no configuration or calibration by the host controller after power up or during operation and, like optical sensors, they provide incremental A/B quadrature output signals with 160 steps per magnet pole pair and an index pulse applied once for every pole pair. The AS5304 and AS5306 ICs achieve resolutions of 25 µm and 15 µm, respectively, and they also support rotary off-axis applications via a circular ring magnet on the outside of a rotating shaft. Both encoders are available in 20-lead, 5 mm x 5 mm TSSOPs and operate at 5V over a temperature range of -40?C to +125?C. AUSTRIAMICROSYSTEMS USA INC., Raleigh, NC. (919) 676-5292.