Encoder Signal Overview & How to Troubleshoot Common Issues

Encoder signal outputs are generated by a rotary encoder when the shaft or bore rotates. Incremental encoders generate a set number of pulses per revolution while an absolute encoder generates a stream of bits corresponding to discrete position.

The performance of an incremental encoder is only as good as its signal. The readout device needs to receive a stream of symmetrical square wave pulses of sufficient amplitude to be detected. In theory, that just requires powering up the encoder and connecting a few wires. In reality, many error sources contribute to signal issues that can do everything from reducing timing accuracy to making the output impossible to detect. Here, we present a brief tutorial on encoder signals, common signal anomalies, what causes them and how to fix them.

Encoder Signal Duty Cycle and Symmetry

With the exception of the index channel, the channels of an incremental encoder code disc are patterned to generate a signal with a 50-50 duty cycle (see below). That means that 50% of the waveform should be high (0° to 180°) and 50% should be low (180° to 360°). In other words, it should be symmetrical.

Encoder Signal Phasing

In many cases, encoder performance depends on the relative phasing between channels. Quadrature encoders, for example, leverage an A channel and a B channel offset from one another by 90° to distinguish between clockwise and counterclockwise rotation. The use of a channel and its complement (e.g. A and A-Not), two signals 180° out of phase, provides a method for filtering out noise spikes. The index channel is designed to generate a single pulse per revolution, but its position relative to the other channels varies depending on the system.

Double check the signal for the expected performance. For quadrature encoders, the phasing should conform with your rotation convention. When the system rotates the opposite direction, the relative position of the signals should switch, indicating a change in the direction of rotation.

Gated Encoder Index

The expected phasing for the index signal varies depending upon the encoder. Gated-index encoders pass the index signal through a logic gate that synchronizes it with the B-Not signal. In other words, when the B channel goes low, the index channel goes high. When the B channel goes high again, the index channel goes low. In some cases, the index is not gated. Consult the specific encoder datasheet to determine exact pulse width and timing.

How to Identify Common Encoder Signal Issues

When encoder signals appear incorrect, the most common response is to assume the fault lies with the encoder. However, many issues can be the result of mechanical or environmental factors such as lose couplings, shorted wires or other system related issues. Many of these issues can be corrected with a bit of troubleshooting. Start by viewing the signals on an oscilloscope, if possible. This is the best diagnostic tool to use for this application. Leave the wiring to the encoder untouched and connect to the readout device end. Be sure to swap the trigger from one channel to another, as it can provide important insight. The most common encoder signal issues are:

Extended Encoder Pulses

Extended encoder pulses have elongated leading or trailing pulse edges and are commonly caused by mounting issues. Learn how to troubleshoot here

Encoder Signal Jitter

Encoder jitter can be seen as a backwards and forwards movement in pulse shape that can cause count errors. Learn how to troubleshoot here

Stepped/Stair Shaped Encoder Pulses

Stepped pulses occur when two channels are shorted. The shape of the stair can determine which channels are shorted. Learn how to troubleshoot here

Very Low Amplitude Signals

Low amplitude signals may resemble other channels at a lower amplitude and are generally caused by cross talk to a channel that is actually open. Learn how to troubleshoot here

Delayed Signal Rise Time (Shark Fins)

Shark fin shaped pulses are delays in encoder signal rise time caused by longer cable runs or output driver issues. Learn how to troubleshoot here

Encoder Signal Flicker/Jump

Encoder signal flickers are erratic jumps in encoder pulse shapes typically resulting from signal interpolation. Learn how to troubleshoot here

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