The Lenord+Bauer GEL 244xF has been nominated for the Messweb Masters Award 2026, recognising an innovative approach to sensor integration for Fanuc CNC systems.
As a UK supplier of Lenord+Bauer products, motec is pleased to support customers looking to integrate the GEL 244xF into machine-tool and motor-spindle applications, providing both access to the product and the technical support required to specify it correctly.
A digital MiniCODER designed for Fanuc systems
The GEL 244xF is a bearingless rotary encoder with a serial interface specifically designed for Fanuc αi SP, αi SP-B and αi SP-D inverter systems.
Its key advantage is its ability to connect directly to the Fanuc inverter, removing the need for a separate signal converter box. This provides a simpler approach to integrating speed and position feedback into the drive system.
The encoder uses contactless magnetic scanning, providing wear-free measurement while allowing the sensor to operate in demanding industrial environments. Its compact design is particularly suited to applications where installation space is restricted.
High-speed, high-resolution feedback
Key GEL 244xF features
- 24-bit resolution for precise speed and position measurement
- Direct Fanuc αi connection to SP, SP-B and SP-D inverter systems
- Contactless magnetic scanning for wear-free operation
- Up to 100,000 rpm speed capability
- Jitter-free position value generation
- Latency-free data transmission
- IP68 protection
- High resistance to shock and vibration
- Compact bearingless construction for restricted installation spaces
- Integrated operating-hours meter
- Integrated condition monitoring
- No separate signal converter box required
The GEL 244xF provides 24-bit resolution for speed and position measurement and is designed for high-speed motor-spindle applications, with speed capability of up to 100,000 rpm.
Position values are generated without jitter and transmitted without latency, helping provide the high control quality required in demanding machine-tool applications.
The digital interface uses RS-485 with the Fanuc αi protocol, with a data transmission rate of 2.73 Mbit/s. The sensor operates from a 5 V DC supply and has a power consumption of no more than 0.5 W without load.
Built for demanding machine-tool environments
The bearingless and contactless design removes mechanical wear from the sensing principle, helping support long-term reliability.
The GEL 244xF also has an IP68 protection rating, high shock and vibration resistance and high interference immunity. Depending on the specific variant, the sensor is designed to operate within demanding temperature conditions, making it suitable for the harsh environments often encountered within machine tools and motor spindles.
The range includes the GEL 2444F and GEL 2449F, with different target-wheel configurations available to suit the mechanical requirements of the application. The GEL 2444F, for example, is available for module 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 target wheels, while the GEL 2449F is available for module 0.4 and 1.0 configurations.
More than speed and position feedback
One of the particularly useful aspects of the GEL 244xF is that it can provide more than conventional speed and position information.
The digital MiniCODER can also provide warnings, error messages and temperature values, giving engineers additional information about the condition of the motor spindle. This creates opportunities for improved condition monitoring and earlier identification of potential issues.
The result is a sensor that not only provides the feedback required for machine control, but can also contribute additional information about the operating condition of the application.
Supporting GEL 244xF applications in the UK
At motec, we understand that selecting a specialist encoder is not simply a case of choosing a product from a catalogue.
The mechanical installation, target wheel, air gap, Fanuc interface, operating speed and environmental conditions all need to be considered to ensure the encoder is appropriate for the application.
As a UK supplier of Lenord+Bauer products, motec can support customers with the GEL 244xF range, helping engineers identify the appropriate variant and understand the requirements for integrating the MiniCODER into their application.
Our approach is centred on combining specialist component supply with practical technical knowledge. With more than 40 years of experience in motion control, sensing and automation, we can help customers specify the right technology rather than simply supplying a part number.
A significant development in MiniCODER technology
The GEL 244xF demonstrates how encoder technology is continuing to evolve alongside modern CNC and machine-tool systems.
By combining direct Fanuc integration, high-resolution digital feedback, contactless sensing, high-speed operation and additional condition-monitoring information, the GEL 244xF provides a compact solution for demanding motor-spindle applications.
We are pleased to see the Lenord+Bauer GEL 244xF nominated for the Messweb Masters Award 2026 and proud to support customers in the UK who are looking to take advantage of this technology.
For further information about the GEL 244xF or to discuss its suitability for your Fanuc CNC or motor-spindle application, contact motec for technical advice and product support.