What is incremental encoder?

An incremental encoder is a sensor that allows determining its own shaft or scale movement changes from the initial reference point.

Its main feature is presence of a zero point. Each time after switching on it is necessary to go through this particular area and only then, the measurement will start. Such encoder has accumulating action principle. Hence, device compares current parameter in relation to the starting one.

When power is turned off, all the information disappears. When device is turned on, starting point must be passed again, after which a new measurement will begin.

By the operation principle such encoders are divided into optical, magnetic, inductive and mechanical.

According to the type of measurement method, incremental encoders can be rotary (also called shaft encoders) or linear. In the first case, sensor measures the displacement of its own shaft, in another - scale.

On our site you can find the full catalog of incremental rotary sensors produced by ELTRA