What is an Absolute Encoder? Exploring Its Working Principle, Application Scenarios, and Domestic Solutions

In the fields of industrial automation and high-end equipment manufacturing, **absolute encoders** are a critical type of position feedback sensor. Unlike incremental encoders, absolute encoders can retain their position data after power loss or system restart.Output unique, deterministic location data directlyNo zero-return operation is required, making it widely adopted in applications demanding high safety, reliability, and system stability.

With the development of domestic automation systems, those equipped withAbsolute Encoder for Domestic Design and Engineering Application Capabilitiesis becoming an increasingly important choice for more and more projects.

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I. What is an Absolute Encoder?

Absolute EncoderIt is an encoder that can output the current true position value at any given moment.
Its core characteristics lie in:

Each location point corresponds to a unique numerical code.

Location data remains reliable even in the following situations:

• The equipment suddenly lost power.
• System power-up
• Controller Restart
• After the equipment has been shut down, restart it.

This makes absolute encoders the preferred solution in many critical equipment applications.

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II. Working Principle of Absolute Encoder

Absolute encoders typically achieve positional uniqueness through the following methods:

• Single-turn absolute value encoding::
  Within a given circle, each angle corresponds to a unique code.
• Multi-turn Absolute Encoder::
  By overlaying lap information onto the single-lap data, cumulative lap positions can be recorded.

In terms of data output methods, absolute encoders commonly employ digital communication protocols, such as:

• SSI
• RS485
• CANopen
• Profibus / Profinet
• Industrial Ethernet
• 4–20 mA (in some industrial settings)

Through these interfaces, the encoder can reliably transmit precise position data to PLCs, motion controllers, or DCS systems.

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III. Typical Application Scenarios for Absolute Encoder

Absolute encoders are primarily used forLocation information must not be lost.或Unable to resetIndustrial scenarios, including but not limited to:

1️⃣ Industrial Automation Equipment

• Rotary Table
• Automated Production Line Positioning System
• Multi-axis linkage mechanism

2️⃣ Lifting and Construction Machinery

• Crane Slewing Angle Detection
• Hoist and Lifting Equipment Position Feedback

3️⃣ Energy and Heavy Industry Sector

• Wind Turbine Yaw and Pitch Systems
• Angle Control of Metallurgical Equipment

4️⃣ High-Reliability Control System

• Safety Interlock System
• Devices that must maintain positional information after power loss

In these scenarios, the stability and consistency of absolute encoders are particularly critical.

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IV. Key Technical Specifications of Absolute Encoder

When selecting engineering solutions, the following parameters typically require close attention:

• Resolution
• Single-turn / Multi-turn type
• Output Interfaces and Communication Protocols
• Mechanical Structure (Shaft Type, Flange, Mounting Method)
• Ingress Protection Rating (IP Rating)
• Environmental Adaptability (Temperature, Vibration, Shock)

For complex projects, it often also involvesNon-standard customizationor compatibility requirements with existing systems in terms of dimensions and protocols.

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V. Domestic Production Trends for Absolute Encoder Technology

With the maturation of domestic control systems, domestic PLCs, and the industrial automation supply chain, absolute encoders are showing a clear trend toward domestic production:

• ✔ Domestic solutions in Protocol Compatibility Continuously improving
• ✔ In Engineering Application Stability has accumulated a large number of practical cases
• ✔ In Delivery Schedule Control and Technical Response Speed possesses distinct advantages
• ✔ Can be customized according to project requirements Customized Development and Adaptation

In an increasing number of projects, domestically produced absolute encoders have evolved from being merely an “alternative option” to becoming a “long-term engineering solution.”

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VI. Solution Approaches for Engineering Applications

From an engineering practice perspective, a mature absolute encoder solution should typically possess the following capabilities:

• Supports multiple industrial communication interfaces
• Supports single-turn and multi-turn absolute value applications
• Capable of reliable operation under complex conditions
• Capable of adapting parameters and structures according to project requirements

This capability represents a key direction for the development and manufacturing of high-end encoders in China today.

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VII. Conclusion

Absolute EncoderAs an indispensable position feedback component in industrial automation systems, its value is reflected in:

• Location data is not lost
• High system security
• Control logic is more streamlined
• More suitable for complex and critical equipment

Against the backdrop of localization trends, possessingDomestic Absolute Encoder Solution with Engineering-Grade Reliability and Customization Capabilitiesis being adopted by an increasing number of industries.