Optical incremental encoder
maxon ENX optical incremental encoder
Motor-mounted encoder family spanning optical, magnetic and inductive principles, from simple incremental units to absolute single- and multi-turn versions.
Key specifications
| Outer diameter | 4–42 mm |
|---|---|
| Resolution (max) | 17 bit |
| Interface | incremental A/B/I (TTL / RS422), SSI, BiSS-C |
| Ppr max | 65,536 |
Summarised in our own words from maxon group (maxon motor ag)'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-29. Source 1 · Source 2 · Source 3 · Source 4 · Source 5
Notes on this data
ENX 16 RIO up to 65,536 CPT incremental (40,000 rpm, reduced above 4,096 CPT); ENX 22 EMT 17-bit single-turn + 16-bit multi-turn, BiSS-C/SSI; ENX 16 EASY Absolute 12-bit; ENX 32 MILE 2,048 CPT. Sizes from ENX 4 MAG to ENX 42 MILE per TOC. Mixed technologies; type set to optical-incremental as the dominant variant. ppr_max is an added key (counts per turn).
Specify Motion is not affiliated with maxon group (maxon motor ag). maxon and ENX are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a maxon part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Harsh-environment hollow-shaft Electric Encoder with higher shock/vibration tolerance; tested to MIL-STD-810.
| Published maximum | ENX | VLP |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 17 bit | 23 bit meets or exceeds |
Ultra-thin single-turn hollow-shaft capacitive encoder for general robotics and automation, with push-button calibration.
| Published maximum | ENX | VLX |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 17 bit | 23 bit meets or exceeds |
Extreme-temperature hollow-shaft encoder rated from -55 C to +125 C for aerospace.
| Published maximum | ENX | VLT |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 17 bit | 23 bit meets or exceeds |
Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What an optical incremental encoder is
An optical incremental encoder measures motion by shining light through or reflecting it from a disc or scale with fine graduations onto photodetectors. As the disc or scale moves, the encoder outputs two square-wave or sine-wave channels in quadrature, called A and B, plus an index pulse once per revolution or at reference marks. The counter in the drive or controller tracks position by counting edges from a home point. Optical encoders achieve very high resolution and accuracy.
When engineers choose an optical incremental encoder
Choose an optical incremental encoder for precise speed and position feedback where homing at power-up is acceptable, such as servo motors, stages and machine tools. They are widely compatible and cost effective. The trade-offs are contamination and power loss: dust, oil and condensation can obscure the optical path, and position is lost when power is removed. For harsh environments, magnetic or inductive encoders may suit better.
How to specify the maxon ENX
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ENX variant or an equivalent:
- Resolution (lines per revolution or µm)
- Output type: TTL, HTL or sin/cos
- Index or reference marks
- Shaft or hollow shaft size (mm)
- Maximum speed (rpm or m/s)
- Supply voltage (V)
- Environment and IP code
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing resolution above what the drive input can count
- Running long cables with TTL signals without line drivers
- Ignoring contamination in open optical designs
- Forgetting homing routines after power-up
maxon ENX: frequently asked questions
What is the maxon ENX?
Motor-mounted encoder family spanning optical, magnetic and inductive principles, from simple incremental units to absolute single- and multi-turn versions. Published series figures include outer diameter 4 mm, outer diameter 42 mm, resolution 17 bit. It is made by maxon group (maxon motor ag); Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the maxon ENX?
The maxon ENX is made by maxon (maxon group (maxon motor ag)) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with maxon group (maxon motor ag); brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the outer diameter of the maxon ENX?
The published series minimum outer diameter is 4 mm. Individual models and sizes in the ENX 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 maxon ENX?
Yes. On published figures, Netzer Precision VLP and Netzer Precision VLX are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is quadrature output on an incremental encoder?
Quadrature output provides two channels, A and B, offset by 90 electrical degrees. Comparing which leads gives direction, and counting edges on both gives four times the line count in resolution. An index pulse marks a reference position for homing.
What is the difference between TTL and HTL outputs?
TTL outputs use a 5 V differential signal, which suits high frequencies and is commonly used with line drivers. HTL outputs use a higher voltage swing, typically matched to a 10 to 30 V supply, which improves noise immunity on long cables. Match the output type to the drive or controller input.
Further reading: Absolute vs incremental encoders · How to select an encoder · Encoders and feedback
Other optical incremental encoder series
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