Encoders

Encoders — Accurate Position, Speed & Motion Feedback for Automation

At Excel Automation, we supply a wide range of industrial encoders designed to deliver precise position, speed, and direction feedback in automated systems. Encoders play a critical role in motion control, ensuring machines move accurately, repeatably, and efficiently across manufacturing, packaging, robotics, and process environments.

Whether you’re controlling a servo system, monitoring conveyor speed, indexing machinery, or tracking shaft position, the right encoder provides the feedback your system depends on.

Why Encoders Matter in Industrial Automation

In automated systems, motion without feedback is guesswork. Encoders provide real-time data that allows controllers and drives to verify movement, correct errors, and maintain accuracy throughout every cycle.

Properly selected encoders help you:

  • Achieve precise positioning and speed control

  • Improve repeatability and product consistency

  • Reduce mechanical wear caused by misalignment or drift

  • Enable closed-loop motion control

  • Improve system reliability and uptime

Without reliable encoder feedback, even high-quality motors and drives cannot perform to their full potential.

Types of Encoders We Offer

Excel Automation provides encoders suited for a wide range of applications, environments, and performance requirements.

Incremental Encoders

Incremental encoders generate pulses as a shaft rotates, allowing systems to calculate speed, direction, and relative position. They are commonly used in motion control systems where homing or reference points are available.

Typical applications include:

  • Conveyor speed monitoring

  • Motor feedback

  • Indexing and positioning systems

  • Packaging and material handling equipment

Absolute Encoders

Absolute encoders provide a unique position value for every shaft position, even after power loss. This eliminates the need for re-homing and improves reliability in critical applications.

Common uses include:

  • Robotics and automation cells

  • CNC machinery

  • Lift, hoist, and positioning systems

  • Applications requiring position retention after shutdown

Rotary Encoders

Rotary encoders measure angular position, speed, and direction of rotating shafts. They are widely used in motor feedback and motion systems.

Linear Encoders

Linear encoders measure straight-line movement instead of rotation. These are ideal for applications requiring precise linear positioning and measurement.

Key Encoder Features & Options

Encoders are available with a variety of configurations to match different system requirements, including:

  • Resolution and pulse count options

  • Shafted, hollow-shaft, and through-shaft designs

  • Incremental and absolute outputs

  • Electrical interfaces (TTL, HTL, SSI, fieldbus, etc.)

  • Environmental ratings for dust, moisture, vibration, and washdown

  • Mechanical mounting options for easy integration

Selecting the right combination of features ensures accurate feedback and long-term reliability.

Common Applications for Industrial Encoders

Encoders are used across a wide range of industries and automation systems, including:

  • Servo and stepper motor feedback

  • Robotics and articulated motion systems

  • Conveyor and material handling systems

  • Packaging, labeling, and inspection equipment

  • CNC machines and cutting systems

  • OEM machinery and custom automation

Any system that relies on controlled motion benefits from dependable encoder feedback.

Benefits of Choosing the Right Encoder

Using the correct encoder for your application provides clear operational advantages:

  • Higher Accuracy & Precision
    Reliable feedback ensures exact positioning and speed control.

  • Improved System Reliability
    Accurate feedback reduces motion errors and mechanical stress.

  • Reduced Downtime
    Stable feedback helps prevent faults and unexpected stops.

  • Simplified Integration
    Proper encoder selection ensures compatibility with drives and controllers.

  • Future-Ready Performance
    Encoders that meet your current needs make future system upgrades easier.

Why Excel Automation Is Your Encoder Partner

At Excel Automation, we help customers select encoders that truly fit their motion systems — not just generic replacements. When you work with us, you benefit from:

  • A broad selection of industrial encoder solutions

  • Guidance on resolution, interface, and mounting selection

  • Support for integrating encoders with motors, drives, and controllers

  • Access to trusted manufacturers known for precision and durability

  • Fast availability for new builds, replacements, and upgrades

From simple incremental encoders to advanced absolute feedback devices, we help ensure your motion systems perform with confidence.

Ready to Improve Motion Accuracy & Feedback?

The right encoder is essential for precise, reliable motion control. Excel Automation is here to help you select the best encoder for your application, environment, and performance requirements.

Excel Automation