Bourns PER401-P122-N0015 Incremental Ring Encoder

Introduction

The Bourns PER401-P122-N0015 is a compact, low-profile rotary encoder designed to provide intuitive rotational input in space-constrained electronic products. As part of the PER40 series, it combines incremental quadrature sensing with tactile detent feedback for reliable manual control.

Part Description

The PER401-P122-N0015 is a 22 mm incremental ring encoder with continuous mechanical rotation. It produces two-phase quadrature signals, allowing a controller to determine both the amount and direction of rotation.

With 15 pulses per full 360° revolution, the encoder provides a balanced level of input resolution for navigation, adjustment, and selection functions. Its haptic detents give users tactile feedback while turning the control, helping support accurate adjustments without needing to look directly at the interface.

The encoder operates from 3.3 VDC to 5 VDC, making it suitable for common microcontroller and embedded-system logic levels. It is rated for operation between -40°C and +85°C and has an IP40 protection rating, supporting use in protected indoor equipment and industrial control interfaces.

Key characteristics include:

• Manufacturer: Bourns
• Product code: PER401-P122-N0015
• Product type: Rotary encoder
• Encoder style: Low-profile incremental ring encoder
• Diameter: 22 mm
• Output type: Two-phase quadrature
• Resolution: 15 pulses per revolution
• Rotation: Continuous 360° mechanical rotation
• User feedback: Haptic detents
• Supply rating: 3.3 VDC to 5 VDC
• Ingress protection: IP40
• Operating temperature: -40°C to +85°C

Applications

Potential applications for the PER401-P122-N0015 include:

• User-interface navigation controls
• Menu selection dials
• Audio volume and tone controls
• Instrument-panel adjustment knobs
• Digital thermostats
• Lighting dimmers
• Laboratory equipment interfaces
• Test and measurement devices
• Medical-device user controls
• Portable electronic control panels
• Smart-home control products
• Embedded human-machine interfaces

Industries

This rotary encoder may be used in a range of industries, including:

• Consumer electronics
• Industrial automation
• Medical electronics
• Test and measurement
• Telecommunications
• Building automation
• Professional audio equipment
• Smart-home technology
• Automotive accessory equipment
• Commercial appliances
• Energy-management systems

Usage Ideas

1. Microcontroller Volume Controller

Use the encoder with a microcontroller to create a digital volume control. The quadrature outputs can increase or decrease a volume setting, while the detents provide a familiar tactile adjustment experience.

2. Compact Temperature-Control Interface

Build a thermostat interface where rotating the ring encoder changes the desired temperature setpoint. A small display can show the current setting, and each detent can represent a fixed temperature increment.

3. Embedded Menu Navigation Dial

Integrate the encoder into a compact device enclosure as the primary navigation control. Clockwise and counterclockwise rotation can scroll through menu options, adjust parameters, or select operating modes.

Conclusion

The Bourns PER401-P122-N0015 is a low-profile incremental ring encoder suited to compact control interfaces requiring dependable rotational input. Its 15-pulse quadrature output, continuous rotation, tactile detents, broad operating-temperature range, and compatibility with 3.3 VDC and 5 VDC systems make it a practical choice for consumer, industrial, medical, and embedded electronic products.