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Optical incremental encoder

HEIDENHAIN ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300)

Incremental rotary encoders with hollow shafts, in external and motor-integrated formats, with analog or square-wave outputs.

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What are you specifying?

Select everything you need. A motor, drive and gearbox can be specified together as one axis.

1 selected: Encoder

Key specifications

Outer diameter (min)35 mm
Interface1 Vpp, TTL, HTL

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

Only ERN 1000 page read (approx. 35 mm housing, blind hollow shaft). Line counts and speeds not published on that page.

Specify Motion is not affiliated with DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH. HEIDENHAIN and ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300) are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.

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Typical applications

Motor speed feedbackMachine toolsGeneral automation

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 HEIDENHAIN ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300)

Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300) 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

HEIDENHAIN ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300): frequently asked questions

Can you help replace HEIDENHAIN ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300) or source the original?

Send the full model code, quantity and required date. Our engineers can check original-part availability and assess suitable alternatives, including supply-network options where appropriate. We confirm compatibility and any changes needed before recommending a replacement.

What is the HEIDENHAIN ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300)?

Incremental rotary encoders with hollow shafts, in external and motor-integrated formats, with analog or square-wave outputs. Published series figures include outer diameter 35 mm. It is made by DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.

Who makes the HEIDENHAIN ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300)?

The HEIDENHAIN ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300) 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 ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300)?

The published series minimum outer diameter is 35 mm. Individual models and sizes in the ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300) 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 ERN incremental rotary encoders (ERN 100 / 400 / 1000 / 1300)?

We can assess suitable replacement options. Our engineers can review the original model and propose options for your load, speed and environment. 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

HEIDENHAIN LIP 200 / LIP 6000 exposed linearHEIDENHAIN LIF 400 exposed linearmaxon ENXRenishaw TONiCRenishaw VIONiCRenishaw QUANTiCRenishaw ATOMRenishaw ATOM DX

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