Optical incremental encoder
Renishaw TONiC
Compact 20 µm-pitch incremental optical encoder with an interface box offering interpolation down to 1 nm. Works with linear tape, spar, partial arc and rotary ring scales for dynamic precision stages.
Key specifications
| Outer diameter | 52–550 mm |
|---|---|
| Ingress protection | IP40 |
| Linear speed (max) | 10 m/s |
| Resolution (finest) | 1 nm |
| Accuracy | RELM20 ±1 µm/m; RTLC20/RKLC20-S ±5 µm/m; rotary ±4.3 to ±0.5 arc sec (RESM20/REXM20) |
| Interface | RS422 digital, 1 Vpp analogue |
Summarised in our own words from Renishaw plc's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-29. Source 1 · Source 2 · Source 3
Notes on this data
Readhead 35 x 13.5 x 10 mm, IP40 (interface IP20); operating 0 to +70 °C. SDE typically ±30 nm. Rotary up to 3,673 rpm. Variants: Functional Safety, UHV, DOP dual output, DSi dual-readhead angle system. od_mm = RESM20 ring range (REXM20 52-417 mm).
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Renishaw plc. Renishaw and TONiC are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a Renishaw part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Absolute linear magnetic read head for LMSA scales, 1 µm resolution, IP67.
| Published maximum | TONiC | ALS21 |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 10 m/s | 15 m/s meets or exceeds |
Rugged incremental head with RS422 or HTL output and 10-30 VDC supply option. Works on linear and rotary scales.
| Published maximum | TONiC | IKS23 |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 10 m/s | 16 m/s meets or exceeds |
Robust capacitive linear encoder with wide mounting tolerances for vibrating, dirty or hot environments, strokes to 1.9 m.
| Published maximum | TONiC | FLEXe |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 10 m/s | 10 m/s meets or exceeds |
Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
Other optical incremental encoder series
Spec builder
Specify what you need instead of TONiC
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
Let our experienced engineers do the hard work for you
Tell us how you use the Renishaw TONiC: the load, speed, duty and environment. Our engineers will confirm whether it is still the right part, find it for you, or propose an alternative that fits better.
- 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.