How Do Reflective Encoders Produce a Signal?

Posted by London Rhodes on Sep 29, 2021 2:00:50 PM

Reflective encoders produce signal based on the reflection of light. The motor shaft and encoder rotate in tandem. The code wheel has a pattern of reflective and non-reflective surfaces. As the light shines down on the rotating code wheel, it produces a predictable pattern of light and down. An internal sensor detects this pattern and produces digital pulse. 

Topics: How to Choose An Encoder, Encoder Signals Output