Opto Encoder 6 Click

How does it work?

Opto Encoder 6 Click is based on the ATIR0721DS, a transmissive photointerrupter from Kingbright, designed to offer high sensitivity and reliable performance, making it well-suited for various microcomputerized control systems. The ATIR0721DS operates as a slotted optical switch, where an object passing through the sensing slot interrupts the light beam, generating a precise output signal. Additionally, the device is designed as a visible light cut-off type, ensuring enhanced immunity to ambient light interference and providing a stable detection mechanism in different lighting conditions. Thanks to its compact design, the Opto Encoder 6 Click is an excellent choice for implementations where space-saving and reliable detection are crucial.

This Click board™ is designed in a unique format supporting the newly introduced MIKROE feature called “Click Snap.” Unlike the standardized version of Click boards, this feature allows the main sensor area to become movable by breaking the PCB, opening up many new possibilities for implementation. Thanks to the Snap feature, the ATIR0721DS can operate autonomously by accessing its signals directly on the pins marked 1-8. Additionally, the Snap part includes a specified and fixed screw hole position, enabling users to secure the Snap board in their desired location.

To manage the operation of the ATIR0721DS photointerrupter, Opto Encoder 6 Click integrates the MAX40200 from Analog Devices that enables or disables the photointerrupter through the EN pin. This setup allows precise control over the photointerrupter’s functionality, optimizing power efficiency and operational flexibility. The output signal from the photointerrupter is available via the OUT pin on the board, allowing integration into various applications that require motion or position tracking.

This Click board™ can operate with either 3.3V or 5V logic voltage levels selected via the VCC SEL jumper. This way, both 3.3V and 5V capable MCUs can use the communication lines properly. Also, this Click board™ comes equipped with a library containing easy-to-use functions and an example code that can be used as a reference for further development.

Click Snap

Click Snap is an innovative feature of our standardized Click add-on boards, introducing a new level of flexibility and ease of use. This feature allows for easy detachment of the main sensor area by simply snapping the PCB along designated lines, enabling various implementation possibilities. For detailed information about Click Snap, please visit the official page dedicated to this feature.

Specifications

Pinout diagram

This table shows how the pinout on Opto Encoder 6 Click corresponds to the pinout on the mikroBUS™ socket (the latter shown in the two middle columns).

Notes	Pin					Pin	Notes
	NC	1	AN	PWM	16	EN	Photointerrupter Enable
	NC	2	RST	INT	15	OUT	Photointerrupter Output
ID COMM	CS	3	CS	RX	14	NC
	NC	4	SCK	TX	13	NC
	NC	5	MISO	SCL	12	NC
	NC	6	MOSI	SDA	11	NC
Power Supply	3.3V	7	3.3V	5V	10	5V	Power Supply
Ground	GND	8	GND	GND	9	GND	Ground

Onboard settings and indicators

Opto Encoder 6 Click electrical specifications

Software Support

Opto Encoder 6 Click demo application is developed using the NECTO Studio, ensuring compatibility with mikroSDK‘s open-source libraries and tools. Designed for plug-and-play implementation and testing, the demo is fully compatible with all development, starter, and mikromedia boards featuring a mikroBUS™ socket.

Example Description

This example demonstrates the use of Opto Encoder 6 Click board by processing the encoder output pin state and incrementing the step counter on falling edge.

Key Functions

• optoencoder6_cfg_setup This function initializes Click configuration structure to initial values.
• optoencoder6_init This function initializes all necessary pins and peripherals used for this Click board.
• optoencoder6_enable_output This function enables output by setting the EN pin to high logic state.
• optoencoder6_disable_output This function disables output by setting the EN pin to low logic state.
• optoencoder6_get_out_pin This function returns the OUT pin logic state.

Application Init

Initializes the driver and logger, and enables the encoder output.

Application Task

Increments the step counter on falling edge of the encoder output pin state and displays it on the USB UART.

Application Output

This Click board can be interfaced and monitored in two ways:

• Application Output – Use the “Application Output” window in Debug mode for real-time data monitoring. Set it up properly by following this tutorial.
• UART Terminal – Monitor data via the UART Terminal using a USB to UART converter. For detailed instructions, check out this tutorial.

Additional Notes and Information

The complete application code and a ready-to-use project are available through the NECTO Studio Package Manager for direct installation in the NECTO Studio. The application code can also be found on the MIKROE GitHub account.