Choosing a digital readout starts with the number of axes you need and the machining functions you use. The DRO101 and DRO102 are straightforward 100-series readouts. The DRO203 adds milling and turning features for a two- or three-axis setup.
| Feature | DRO101 | DRO102 | DRO203 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Encoder axes | 1 | 2 | 2 or 3, configurable |
| Good fit | Single-axis position display on a manual machine | Two-axis position display on a mill, lathe or other manual machine | Two- or three-axis milling, drilling, boring or turning when machining functions matter |
| Display | 7-inch color | 7-inch color | 7-inch color |
| Positioning basics | Absolute/incremental, distance-to-go, mm/inch | Absolute/incremental, distance-to-go, mm/inch | Absolute/incremental, distance-to-go, mm/inch and graphic positioning aid |
| Datums and tool data | 1 datum; no tool offsets | 1 datum; no tool offsets | 10 datums; 16 tool entries |
| Milling and turning extras | Basic radius/diameter display for turning | Basic radius/diameter display for turning | Bolt-circle and linear hole-pattern calculations, tool compensation, taper calculator and vectoring |
| Encoder input and data port | TTL; USB Type-C | TTL; USB Type-C | TTL; USB Type-C |
Which one should you quote?
Choose DRO101 for one axis, or DRO102 for two axes when you only need core position-display functions. Choose DRO203 for a two- or three-axis machine when hole patterns, tool data or turning aids would save setup time. DRO203 is not a one-axis readout.
Check encoder and machine fit
All three use TTL encoder inputs. A matching signal is only one part of a retrofit: confirm the scale model, travel, cable/connector, mounting and number of axes before quoting. ACU-RITE's SENC 50 is a compact scale for tight spaces; SENC 150 suits standard mounting. Do not assume an existing scale or package will plug in without checking its exact model. Send us the machine make/model, current readout and scale ID tags, and axis travel so we can help match a system.
Source: ACU-RITE digital readout catalog · DRO100 details · DRO203 details
For product fit and a quote, call 1-888-354-2525 or email sales@auto-met.com. Automation and Metrology, Inc. · 8808 Tyler Blvd, Mentor, OH 44060.