Abstract: An instrument for measuring the relative position of two objects comprises a scale with an incremental graduation defining a measuring direction X. A plurality of identical reference marks are positioned along the graduation, each reference mark allocated absolutely to the graduation. To determine the absolute value of a reference mark, two successive spacings between the two reference marks preceding in the measuring direction X are determined. The two spacings are determined by scanning the incremental graduation.

Abstract: A position measuring instrument, of the type including a first component which includes a first electrically conductive sensor conductor and a second component, which includes a second electrically sensor conductor, wherein one of the two components is mounted to move relative to the other component, is provided with an improved connector which comprises at least one insulating member secured to the first component such that the insulating member is substantially prevented from rotating with respect to the first component, at least one electrically conducting contact member, which is secured to the insulating member such that the contact member is substantially prevented from rotating with respect to the first component, is substantially prevented from pulling out of the insulating member, and does not extend substantially beyond the first component, wherein the contact member is electrically connected to the first sensor conductor.