When you're working in sensors, encoders, and machine safety, the first decision often comes down to a single question: do I need a hands-on control input, or do I need a remote sensing node? The two products here are a study in that contrast. The EC11 rotary encoder is a $2.50 tactile component for panel-mounted knobs. The Monnit industrial wireless temperature sensor is a $100 standalone monitoring unit. They're not substitutes, so the right pick depends entirely on what your setup is asking for.
Quick Verdict
If your project is about dialing in settings, counting clicks, or navigating a menu on a machine, the EC11 rotary encoder is the low-cost choice. It's a through-hole PCB-mount component with a D-shaped shaft and an integrated push switch for extra input. If your project is about watching temperature from a distance, the Monnit wireless sensor is the one that fits. It's a self-contained unit that communicates over 900 MHz and is ready for a Monnit system.
At a Glance
| Product | Price | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| EC11 Rotary Encoder | $2.50 | | Rotary encoder with D shaft | Manual panel control and prototyping |
| Monnit Industrial Wireless Temp Sensor | $100.00 | | Wireless temp sensor with 3-ft lead and battery | Remote temperature monitoring |
Where Each Product Wins
- EC11 wins for manual control: You get a physical knob feel with a push-to-actuate switch in one compact package.
- Monnit wins for wireless reach: The SMA antenna and 900 MHz signal mean you can place the sensor where you need it and collect data remotely.
- EC11 wins for simplicity: No gateway, no pairing, no software - just a wired component that sends pulse signals to your circuit.
- Monnit wins for industrial monitoring: It's built for permanent mount installations where you want temperature readings without running sensor wires across a facility.
Product Notes
1 Pc - EC11 360 Degree Rotary Encoder PCB Mount Push Switch D Shaft
This encoder provides 20 pulses per revolution, so you can track rotation direction and speed with a straightforward digital signal. The D-shaped shaft accepts standard knobs, and the 7 through-hole pins make it straightforward to solder into a custom PCB or breakout board. The integrated push switch is rated for 5 volts at 10 mA, giving you an extra momentary contact for click-to-select actions. It's a very flexible input device for DIY instrument panels, 3D printer controls, or test fixtures. Its limitation is that it's strictly a local input - it reads your hand movements and converts them to pulses; it doesn't sense temperature, moisture, or any environmental condition. You'll need to pair it with a controller that decodes those pulses.
Monnit Industrial Wireless Temperature Sensor MNS2-9-IN-TS-ST-L03
The Monnit sensor takes a completely different approach. Instead of expecting a person to turn a shaft, it continuously measures temperature and transmits readings through a Monnit-compatible wireless system. It comes with a 3-foot lead for placing the thermistor away from the main unit, a pre-installed 3V industrial battery so it's ready on arrival, an SMA antenna for 900 MHz communication, and mounting hardware for wall or machine installation. The unit is listed as new open box, meaning you're getting a new sensor but the packaging may show signs of opening. Since it uses the Monnit ecosystem, you'll need a Monnit gateway or receiver to capture its data - that's a consideration if you don't already have Monnit infrastructure.
Final Choice by Use Case
Pick the EC11 Rotary Encoder when you're designing a board that needs a manual encoder with push functionality. It's a wired, hands-on component best suited for prototypes, control panels, or anywhere a knob is more reliable than a touchscreen.
Pick the Monnit Industrial Wireless Temperature Sensor when your goal is automated, remote temperature awareness in an industrial or commercial facility. It's a complete sensing node that removes the need for long probe wires, provided you're already running a Monnit system.
