Which Encoder Communication Protocol Is Right for Our Application?

Question: We’ve been using resolvers to track motor-shaft position in the CNC machines we build for years. And no one has asked, so we’ve never considered changing that technology. But now a customer has requested we also utilize encoders. While the variety of encoder types—capacitive, magnetic, optical—is pretty straightforward, we’re having some discussions as we try to understand the communication protocols available and which direction to go. 

Can I replace a resolver with a sin/cos encoder? What about Hiperface, EnDat, SSI? If the application dictates the encoder or resolver, does the device dictate the communication protocol?

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