Incremental encoders

provide a simple pulse output in relation to the movement of the sensor element across the initiator. In the case of Lenord+Bauer’s magnetic measuring principle the initiator is a fero-magnetic tooth wheel.

Position is derived by the connected electronics, which can be a motion controller, PLC, counter or drive unit, by utilising a reference mark (also referred to as the Zero marker or Z channel) as the starting point. The electronics then track the pulse output from the encoder to establish position.

The Lenord+Bauer magnetic incremental encoders have internal electronics that can derive multiple “pulses” off a single tooth and in this way the encoders offer a resolution of up to 273,408 pulses per shaft revolution (GEL 260 series).

Absolute encoders

provide an ‘actual’ position value, derived from the orientation of the encoder shaft in respect to the sensor element. This is achieved by coding the disc attached to the encoder shaft. The code pattern can be evaluated and so the position is obtained. In the case of Lenord+Bauer’s magnetic measuring principle the initiator is a fero-magnetic disc integrated in the encoder.

Position is output as a ‘value of position’ to a motion controller, PLC, counter or drive unit via a serial link. This is typically an SSI data string or in the form of a fieldbus compatible reference.

The Lenord+Bauer magnetic absolute encoders have internal electronics that can derive up to 16,384 positions per turn (single-turn) of the encoder shaft. In addition an array of magnets, sensed by a set of geared sensor elements, can count up to 4,069 revolutions of the shaft (multi-turn).