Encoders are essential components in modern automation and motion control systems. They convert mechanical motion into precise electrical signals, allowing accurate measurement of position, speed, and direction. Depending on their design and application, encoders are typically categorized as rotary encoders, absolute encoders, and linear encoders.
Rotary Encoders measure angular movement or shaft rotation and are widely used in servo motors, robotics, and CNC machinery.
Absolute Encoders provide a unique digital code for every shaft position, ensuring accurate position feedback even after power loss.
Linear Encoders measure linear displacement and are often used in precision positioning systems, machine tools, and measurement equipment.
Together, these technologies form the foundation of high-performance automation systems in industries such as robotics, semiconductor manufacturing, renewable energy, and industrial machinery.
Top Global Manufacturers of Rotary, Absolute, and Linear Encoders
1. HEIDENHAIN
HEIDENHAIN is a global leader in precision measurement technology, with a product line encompassing rotary encoders, linear encoders, angle encoders, and digital readout systems. The company is renowned for its superior resolution, long-term stability, and interference immunity. Its linear encoders are widely used in high-end CNC machine tools, semiconductor exposure equipment, and precision measurement systems, achieving resolutions down to the nanometer level. Its rotary and absolute encoders enable high-precision closed-loop control in robotics and automation equipment. The interfaces of Heidehain encoders support industrial standards such as EnDat, BiSS, and SSI, making it a leading brand for high-end equipment manufacturing.
2. SICK
SICK, with its powerful photoelectric detection technology, holds a leading position in industrial automation. Its rotary and absolute encoders offer exceptional reliability and vibration resistance, making them suitable for operation in harsh environments. SICK Encoders support a variety of output formats (SSI, CANopen, and PROFINET) and offer IP65/IP67 protection ratings. The company also offers intelligent encoders with integrated diagnostic and self-monitoring capabilities for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications.
3. Baumer
Baumer is renowned for its high precision and stability in sensor and encoder technology. Baumer rotary and linear encoders support a variety of configurations, from incremental to absolute, and offer multi-protocol interfaces (such as EtherCAT, PROFIBUS, and CANopen). Baumer’s MAGRES series of absolute encoders utilizes a magnetic induction measurement principle and is shock-resistant and contaminant-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor and heavy-duty environments.
4. Siemens
Siemens deeply integrates encoder technology into its motion control and drive products. Its rotary and absolute encoders are often used with SIMOTICS motors and SINAMICS drive systems to achieve precise synchronous control. Siemens encoder portfolio covers incremental, absolute, optical, and magnetic encoders, making it suitable for automated production lines, robotics, and energy equipment, representing a paradigm of mechatronic design.
5. Hengstler
Hengstler, a high-precision encoder brand under the Fortive Group, boasts over 150 years of industrial manufacturing experience. Hengstler encoders include incremental, absolute, and safety-certified models (SIL3/PL e). Featuring a highly shock-resistant construction and wide operating temperature range (-40°C to 100°C), these products are widely used in elevator control, packaging machinery, wind turbines, and safety automation systems. Hengstler’s RI and ACURO series are well-regarded in the global industrial market.
6. Kubler
Kubler is a family-owned company specializing in industrial measurement and position control, renowned for its modular design, durable construction, and multiple communication interfaces. Kubler encoder portfolio ranges from standard industrial models to heavy-duty models, including the high-protection RLI series and multi-turn absolute encoders. Kubler innovative features include contactless magnetic induction measurement, replaceable interface modules, and models meeting SIL functional safety standards.
7. Delta
Delta Electronics, a global provider of power electronics and automation solutions, offers cost-effective rotary encoders and servo feedback systems. These encoders feature a compact design, high-resolution output, and excellent anti-interference performance. They are often used with Delta servo motor systems. They are suitable for mid- to high-end mechanical automation, robotics, and machine tool control applications. Delta offers an excellent balance between cost, reliability, and ease of use.
8. POSITAL FRABA
POSITAL, a brand of the FRABA Group, specializes in absolute encoders and inclination sensors. Its IXARC series of absolute encoders utilizes magnetic induction, enabling single-turn and multi-turn counting without battery maintenance. POSITAL also offers optical and capacitive series, with extensive compatibility with protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and CANopen. With its cost-effectiveness and flexible customization capabilities, POSITAL has established a strong position in the global OEM equipment market.
9. IFM Electronic
IFM is a globally renowned brand in industrial sensors and automation. Its encoders feature rugged housings, impact-resistant designs, and IO-Link communication capabilities, making them easy to integrate into smart factory systems. IFM’s absolute encoders offer self-diagnostics and real-time status feedback, support multi-turn encoding, and multi-protocol communication, making them ideal for intelligent devices in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) environment.
10. Hohner Automáticos
With over 35 years of experience in encoder manufacturing, Hohner is a leading European supplier of customized encoders. Its product range covers incremental, absolute and linear encoders, offering everything from standard models to customized solutions. Hohner encoders are renowned for their reliability and flexibility and are widely used in OEM machinery, packaging lines, conveyor systems and renewable energy.
Conclusion
Encoder technology is advancing toward higher precision, better connectivity, and smarter integration. Industry leaders like HEIDENHAIN, Baumer, SICK, and Siemens dominate high-end markets, while Delta, POSITAL, and Hohner grow in mid-range segments with modular and digital solutions.
As robotics, AI equipment, and smart logistics evolve, rotary, absolute, and linear encoders will remain essential for precise and reliable feedback in modern automation.
