The KOBOLD single turn rotary encoder outputs up to 16384 (14 bit) unique positions per turn, depending on the number of divisions. This represents an angular resolution of 0.022° (=1.3'). After a full revolution, encoding starts again at the start position. The devices are suited for angle measurement through a maximum of one shaft rotation (=360°), for example, in robotics, camshaft systems and other controlled rotary motions. The light emitted from an LED is modulated by a code pattern mounted on a rotating disc, and sensed by a special Opto ASIC. A unique bit pattern, typically available as gray code, is assigned to every position. The advantage over incremental rotary encoders is that motion while the encoder is turned off is detected when the encoder is turned on again; the correct position is always available. Advantage: Reference runs, normally needed by incremental systems after switching on, are not required; therefore reliability is increased and no time is wasted.