What is the function of mounting an encoder on a DC geared motor?
Date:2026-02-23 Author:Shandong Xinda Motor Co., Ltd.
An encoder, mounted on a DC geared motor, primarily functions to achieve precise speed and positioning control. It converts the motor's rotation into pulse signals, feeding these signals back to the controller, thus forming a closed-loop control system. Simply put, it lets the motor "know" how many revolutions it has made, its current position, and its rotational speed.
Specifically, its core functions include:
* **Precise Speed Measurement:** By reading the number of pulses per unit time, the controller can calculate the motor's speed in real time. If the speed deviates from the set value (e.g., due to voltage fluctuations or load changes), it immediately adjusts the PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signal to compensate, achieving constant speed control.
* **Precise Positioning:** By accumulating pulse counts, the distance and angle of movement of wheels or joints can be accurately calculated. This is crucial in mileage measurement for intelligent vehicles, straight-line movement of robot chassis, or joint angle control of robotic arms.
* **Direction of Rotation Determination:** The encoder outputs two pulse signals (phase A and phase B) with a 90-degree phase difference. The controller determines the motor's forward and reverse direction by determining which phase signal leads.
• Achieving Closed-Loop Control: If the DC geared motor is the "muscle" that executes commands, the encoder is the "nerve" that transmits sensation. It provides feedback on the actual operating status, allowing the controller to correct deviations and achieve precise PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control.
• Recording Absolute Position (when using an absolute encoder): With an absolute encoder, it can also remember the position of the mechanical device after a power outage, eliminating the need for "zeroing" after a restart.
If you are working on a project, do you need to understand how to select an encoder based on your needs (such as speed measurement or positioning)?


























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