What is an Incremental Encoder? Working Principle, Application Scenarios, and Domestic Solutions

In industrial automation and motion control systems,incremental encoder(Incremental Encoder) is a widely used position and velocity feedback device. By outputting continuous pulse signals, it provides real-time feedback on the rotational speed, direction, and relative displacement of shafts. It serves as one of the fundamental sensing components in CNC equipment, automated production lines, and mechanical control systems.

With the maturation of domestic automation systems,Domestic products with stable performance and engineering adaptabilityincremental encoderhave gradually become viable alternatives to imported products.

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I. What is an Incremental Encoder?

An incremental encoder is a device thatPulse signal variationThe type of encoder used to measure motion status.
Its core features include:

• Output A/B phase pulse signals
• The direction of rotation can be determined by measuring the phase difference.
• The pulse frequency is directly proportional to the rotational speed.
• Typically requires an external reference point or a zeroing operation.

Unlike absolute encoders, incremental encodersDo not directly output absolute position valuesInstead, it achieves relative displacement measurement through pulse accumulation.

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II. Typical Technical Forms of Incremental Encoders

In engineering applications, incremental encoders typically feature the following technical configurations:

1️⃣ Output Method

• A/B-phase orthogonal pulses
• A / B / Z (Zero Position Signal)
• Differential Output (RS422)
• Push-pull / Open-collector output

2️⃣ Resolution Range

• Common from 100 PPR to tens of thousands of PPR
• Adapt to different precision and speed requirements

3️⃣ Mechanical Structure

• Solid shaft / Hollow shaft
• Flange Mounting / Sleeve Mounting
• Compact or heavy-duty structural design

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III. Primary Application Scenarios for Incremental Encoders

Incremental encoders are widely adopted across numerous industrial sectors due to their mature design and manageable cost:

• Servo Motor and Variable Frequency Drive System
• CNC machine tools
• Speed Control of Automated Production Lines
• Conveying Equipment and Packaging Machinery
• Crane, metallurgical, and textile machinery
• General-Purpose Industrial Motion Control System

In these scenarios, the system focuses more onSpeed, direction, and relative displacementIncremental encoders remain an extremely cost-effective choice.

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IV. Current Development Status of Domestic Incremental Encoders

In recent years, domestically produced incremental encoders have made significant progress in the following areas:

• ✔ Signal stability significantly improved
• ✔ High resolution and high-speed performance are gradually maturing.
• ✔ Enhanced vibration resistance and interference immunity
• ✔ Better compatibility with domestic PLCs and drive systems

In extensive engineering practice,Domestic incremental encoders are now capable of meeting the requirements of most industrial applications.and demonstrate advantages in delivery times, customization capabilities, and technical responsiveness.

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V. XWDI's Product Capabilities in the Incremental Encoder Field

For different industrial application requirements,Sividi EncoderWe offer incremental encoder solutions covering a wide range of operating conditions, including but not limited to:

• Incremental rotary encoder with multiple resolution options
• Stable Pulse Output Solution for High-Speed Motors
• Supports multiple electrical interfaces and output formats
• Mechanical and electrical parameters can be customized according to equipment requirements.
• Compatible with domestic and mainstream industrial control systems

In localization projects, XWDI can modify the existing incremental encoder model based on the on-site equipment parameters.Equivalent replacement or customized developmentto meet the long-term operational requirements of the system.

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VI. How to Select the Right Incremental Encoder?

When selecting equipment for actual engineering projects, it is recommended to focus on the following factors:

1. Required Resolution (PPR)
2. Maximum rotational speed and signal frequency
3. Output Electrical Configuration and Voltage
4. Installation Method and Shaft Structure
5. Operating Environment (Vibration, Temperature, Protection Rating)
6. Is a domestic alternative solution required?

For complex operating conditions or specialized equipment, adopting customizable domestic solutions often proves more beneficial for overall system stability.

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VII. Conclusion

incremental encoderAs one of the most mature and widely used encoder types in the field of industrial automation, it continues to hold a significant position in the localization process.
Through proper selection and engineering adaptation, domestically produced incremental encoders can now operate reliably in a wide range of application scenarios.

When neededDomestic production, parameter customization, and long-term supply assuranceIn various projects, XWDI encoders provide corresponding incremental encoder solutions to meet the practical application needs of different equipment and systems.