Magnetic linear encoder
Bogen ALS21 magnetic linear encoder
Absolute linear magnetic read head for LMSA scales, 1 µm resolution, up to 10 m/s, IP67.
Need this part, a replacement or a complete package? Our experienced UK engineering team helps you select, source and obtain the right products, with pricing, delivery coordination and after-sales support.
Pricing and availability
Get pricing, sourcing and replacement support
Need Bogen parts, a replacement or a suitable alternative? Send us a part number, or tell us what the machine needs to do. Our UK engineers will come back with the right product, pricing, lead time and delivery, whether that is the original part, a checked alternative or a complete axis.
- Original parts or a checked alternative
- Pricing, lead time and delivery in one reply
- Components, complete axes and ongoing support
No obligation. Add what you know and an engineer will help with the rest. Prefer to configure it? Build a specification.
Spec builder
Configure Bogen ALS21
Select every part you need and answer the questions an applications engineer would ask. Our engineers use your specification to come back with the right products, pricing and lead times. You see your summary before we ask for any details.
Already know the part number? Send it to us directly.
- 1Products
- 2Performance
- 3Environment
- 4Volumes
- 5Your spec
What are you specifying?
Select everything you need. A motor, drive and gearbox can be specified together as one axis.
Key specifications
| Ingress protection | IP67 |
|---|---|
| Linear speed (max) | 10 m/s |
| Interface | SSI, BiSS-C, NPN o.c. AB |
| Resolution | 1 |
| Temp | -25 to +85 C |
Series ranges as published; individual models vary. The full datasheet, drawings and CAD models are available on request.
Bogen ALS21 replacement and alternative options
Use these supply-network options as a starting point for an engineering check. We can also help source the original Bogen part. Published series figures do not establish an exact-model or drop-in replacement: confirm ratings, fit, interfaces and approvals for your application.
Robust capacitive linear encoder with wide mounting tolerances for vibrating, dirty or hot environments, strokes to 1.9 m.
| Published maximum | ALS21 | 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.
Typical applications
What a magnetic linear encoder is
A magnetic linear encoder reads position from a magnetised scale, usually a flexible tape or a stainless-steel-covered strip with alternating poles, using a readhead with Hall-effect or magnetoresistive sensors. The readhead outputs incremental quadrature or analogue signals, or absolute position from a coded track. The scale can be cut to length and bonded to the machine, making long axes economical. Magnetic linear encoders tolerate dust, oil and coolant better than open optical systems.
When engineers choose a magnetic linear encoder
Choose a magnetic linear encoder for robust position feedback on long axes in harsh environments, such as woodworking, metal processing, packaging and linear motors on general automation. It is affordable and easy to install. The trade-offs are resolution and accuracy, which are typically lower than optical scales, and sensitivity to strong magnetic fields or ferrous debris. For precision metrology, optical or enclosed scales suit better.
How to specify the Bogen ALS21
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ALS21 variant:
- Resolution and accuracy (µm)
- Measuring length (mm or m)
- Absolute or incremental output
- Interface: TTL, sin/cos, SSI, BiSS
- Ride height and alignment tolerances (mm)
- Maximum speed (m/s)
- Environment and IP code
Common mistakes to avoid
- Exceeding ride height tolerances during installation
- Exposing tape to strong magnetic fields or magnetic tools
- Ignoring thermal expansion of the tape and substrate
- Expecting optical-grade accuracy
Bogen ALS21: frequently asked questions
Can you help replace Bogen ALS21 or source the original?
Send the full model code, quantity and required date. Our engineers can check original-part availability and assess suitable alternatives, including supply-network options where appropriate. We confirm compatibility and any changes needed before recommending a replacement.
What is the Bogen ALS21?
Absolute linear magnetic read head for LMSA scales, 1 µm resolution, up to 10 m/s, IP67. Published series figures include linear speed 10 m/s. It is available through our supply network, and our engineers can confirm the right variant for your application.
Who makes the Bogen ALS21?
The Bogen ALS21 is made by Bogen (Bogen Magnetics) available through our supply network. Send us your requirement for pricing, lead time, datasheets and CAD.
What is the linear speed of the Bogen ALS21?
The published series maximum linear speed is 10 m/s. Individual models and sizes in the ALS21 range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the Bogen ALS21?
We can assess suitable replacement options. On published figures, KappaSense FLEXe is options to assess from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
How accurate is a magnetic linear encoder?
Accuracy depends on the scale and readhead, but magnetic linear encoders are typically accurate to several micrometres or tens of micrometres per metre, with resolution down to around a micrometre. This suits general automation and woodworking. For sub-micrometre accuracy, optical scales are usually needed.
Can magnetic tape scales be cut to length?
Many magnetic tape scales are supplied on a reel and can be cut to the required length, then bonded to the machine with adhesive backing and a cover strip. This makes long axes simple and economical. Follow the manufacturer's handling guidance to avoid damaging the magnetisation.
Further reading: How to select a linear encoder · Magnetic vs capacitive vs optical encoders · Encoders and feedback
Often compared with
Engineers specifying this series often compare it with:
Other magnetic linear encoder series
Engineer support
Need Bogen ALS21 or a complete system around it?
Tell us the part or application, quantity and timing. Our UK engineers will come back with the right product, pricing, lead time and delivery.
- 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.
How it works
From enquiry to delivery
Send a part number or describe the application. Our engineers take it from there: the right product, a clear quotation, and delivery and support arranged.
- 01Tell us what you needSend a part number, or configure the application, quantities and timing.
- 02An engineer reviews itWe check the specification and find the original part, a checked equivalent or a complete axis.
- 03Receive your quotationProducts, pricing, lead time and compatibility notes in one reply.
- 04Order and deliveryWhen you are happy, the order is placed and delivery and after-sales support are arranged.