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LinkCompact Magnetic Reader Heads for Automated Position Control
The Magnescale PL81 and PL82 are compact Digiruler reader heads designed for reliable position measurement in industrial automation and machine control applications. Combining the reader head and interpolator into a single unit, they provide a simple and robust solution for linear position feedback when used with Magnescale SL110 and SL130 magnetic ribbon scales.
Using magnetic detection technology, the PL81 and PL82 offer excellent resistance to dust, oil, coolant and moisture, making them well suited to demanding manufacturing environments where optical measurement systems may struggle.
With resolutions from 10 μm to 100 μm and maximum response speeds of up to 300 m/min, the PL81 and PL82 provide dependable position feedback for automated machinery, material handling systems and general industrial positioning applications.
Key features
- Compact integrated reader head and interpolator design
- Designed for use with Magnescale SL110 and SL130 magnetic scales
- Resistant to dust, oil and water contamination
- High-speed operation up to 300 m/min
- Resolution options of 10 μm, 20 μm, 25 μm, 50 μm and 100 μm
- IP67 protection rating for demanding industrial environments
- Suitable for automated position control applications
- Available with cable lengths from 3 m to 15 m
- Maintenance-free magnetic measurement technology
- Reliable operation in harsh factory conditions


Designed for Harsh Industrial Environments
Unlike optical position measurement systems, the Digiruler magnetic measurement principle is highly resistant to contamination. The PL81 and PL82 continue to provide reliable position feedback in environments exposed to:
- Oil and cutting fluids
- Dust and swarf
- Moisture and washdown conditions
- Vibration and shock
- General industrial contamination
This makes them particularly suitable for production machinery, material handling systems and automated equipment operating in challenging factory environments.
Typical applications
The PL81 and PL82 are commonly used in:
- Packaging machinery
- Conveyor systems
- Automated assembly equipment
- Positioning tables
- Industrial automation systems
- Material handling equipment
- Woodworking machinery
- Metalworking machinery
- Special-purpose machines
- General machine positioning applications
Compatible Digiruler Magnetic Scales
The PL81 and PL82 reader heads are designed for use with:
These magnetic scales provide measuring lengths from 200 mm up to 30,000 mm depending on the scale selected, allowing the system to be configured for a wide range of machine sizes and applications.
Part Numbers
| Product Code | Product Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 97969801 | PL81-3 | PL81-3 Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 3m (Open collector output) |
| 97969802 | PL81-5 | PL81-5 Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 5m (Open collector output) |
| 97969803 | PL81-7 | PL81-7 Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 5m (Open collector output) |
| 97969804 | PL81-A | PL81-A Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 10m (Open collector output) |
| 97969805 | PL81-B | PL81-B Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 15m (Open collector output) |
| 97500291 | PL81-LAG | PL81-LAG Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 0,7m (Open collector output) |
| 97969901 | PL82-3 | PL82-3 Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 3m (differential line driver output) |
| 97969902 | PL82-5 | PL82-5 Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 5m (differential line driver output) |
| 97969903 | PL82-7 | PL82-7 Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 7m (differential line driver output) |
| 97969904 | PL82-A | PL82-A Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 10m (differential line driver output) |
| 97969905 | PL82-B | PL82-B Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 15m (differential line driver output) |
| 97930740 | PL82-BT02 | PL82-BT02 Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 20m (differential line driver output) |
| 97951037 | PL82-L0A | PL82-L0A Reading Head for SL110/130 Cable 0,5m (differential line driver output) |
Why Choose the Magnescale PL81 / PL82?
The PL81 and PL82 offer a simple, robust and cost-effective method of obtaining accurate linear position feedback in environments where contamination, vibration or demanding operating conditions make alternative technologies unsuitable. Their integrated design, high environmental resistance and straightforward installation make them a popular choice for machine builders and automation engineers worldwide.
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