>> The only problem I can see is the distance from the encoders to the PC...
>> about 30 feet!!! If I put the 2016s right by the encoders then I hav a
long
>> parallel cable... Not good! But if I put the 2016s next to the PC then I
>> have long leads carrying the quadrature signals... Very noisy.... Any
>> ideas???
>
>Put the 2016s by the encoders, put a PIC by the 2016s and use rs232 to
>the PC.


What I think I'll do is...

Encoder -> Schmidt Trigger-> Line Driver -> twisted pair cable ->
Receiver -> HCTL2016 -> I/O Card -> PC

The schmidt trigger gives me a nice waveform for the signals. The line
driver shifts the voltage up to +/- 12V and transmits it over twisted pair
lines. The receiver brings the voltage back down to 0-5V. The I/O card
drives the 2016 directly. I already have the I/O card and it works a treat!

Phil