Magnetic encoder
HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic encoder
Bearingless magnetic modular encoders using a scale drum and scanning head, tolerant of contamination on spindles and rotary axes.
Key specifications
| Outer diameter | 64–452 mm |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | graduation accuracy ±2.5" to ±72" |
| Interface | 1 Vpp, TTL, EnDat 2.2 |
Summarised in our own words from DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-29. Source 1 · Source 2
Notes on this data
Drum diameters 64-452 mm; inside diameters up to 512 mm also mentioned. Page gives '1024 to 7200' under signal period without units (likely line counts) - not stored. Absolute magnetic ECM 2400 (±3.5-8") is a separate series.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH. HEIDENHAIN and ERM 2000 modular magnetic are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
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Our experienced engineers are on hand, ready to help with your project. Whether you need the HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic itself, help sourcing it, or a modified or custom design built around your load, speed and space, tell us what the machine has to do and we'll come back with the right option.
- Help sourcing ERM 2000 modular magnetic and spares for installed machines
- Modified and custom designs when a catalogue part doesn't fit
- Complete axis: motor, drive, gearing and feedback matched together
What a magnetic encoder is
A magnetic encoder measures rotary or linear position by sensing a magnetic pattern with Hall-effect or magnetoresistive sensors. Formats include board-level chips reading a shaft-end magnet, modular rings and drums for hollow shafts, shafted encoders and linear tape or rod systems. With no optical path, magnetic encoders tolerate dust, oil, moisture and vibration, and many are non-contact and bearingless. Resolution and accuracy depend strongly on the scale pole pitch, sensor design and mounting precision.
When engineers choose a magnetic encoder
Choose a magnetic encoder when feedback must survive contamination or tight packaging, such as spindles, robot joints, actuators and motors in mobile machines. It is compact and cost effective. The trade-offs are accuracy, magnetic interference and mounting sensitivity: typical accuracy is lower than optical, and nearby magnets or brakes can disturb readings. For precision metrology, an optical encoder is usually preferred. For very hostile conditions, inductive designs may also be worth considering.
How to specify the HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ERM 2000 modular magnetic variant or an equivalent:
- Rotary or linear, and format: chip, ring, drum, shafted or tape
- Resolution (bits or µm)
- Accuracy (arcmin or µm)
- Interface and output
- Mounting tolerances: gap, runout and alignment (mm)
- Speed (rpm or m/s)
- Environment, temperature and IP code
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring stray magnetic fields from brakes or motors
- Poor mounting tolerances degrading accuracy
- Quoting resolution in bits when the axis really needs a stated accuracy
- Not calibrating after installation where supported
HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic: frequently asked questions
What is the HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic?
Bearingless magnetic modular encoders using a scale drum and scanning head, tolerant of contamination on spindles and rotary axes. Published series figures include outer diameter 64 mm, outer diameter 452 mm. It is made by DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic?
The HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic is made by HEIDENHAIN (DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the outer diameter of the HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic?
The published series minimum outer diameter is 64 mm. Individual models and sizes in the ERM 2000 modular magnetic range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic?
Yes. Our engineers can propose an equivalent built around your load, speed and environment. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
Why use a bearingless magnetic encoder?
A bearingless or modular encoder has a separate ring or scale and readhead, so it mounts on the machine's own shaft and bearings with no extra friction or wear. It suits hollow shafts and compact designs. The machine builder must hold the mounting tolerances.
Can magnetic encoders work in oily or dusty environments?
Yes. Magnetic encoders sense the magnetic field rather than light, so oil, dust and moisture typically do not stop them working. Ferrous debris can still affect readings if it collects on the scale, so covers or wipers may be needed. Check the IP code.
Further reading: Magnetic vs capacitive vs optical encoders · How to select an encoder · Encoders and feedback
Other magnetic encoder series
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Tell us about your project and how you use the HEIDENHAIN ERM 2000 modular magnetic: the load, speed, duty and environment. An experienced engineer will review it and reply, normally within one working day.
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