Motor Encoder

An encoder is an electromechanical device that provides an electrical signal that is used for speed and/or position control.

There are many types of motor encoders:

1. Optical Encoders
2. Magnetic Encoders
3. Mechanical Encoders

Resources

• https://www.dynapar.com/technology/encoder_basics/motor_encoders/

ESC vs. Motor encoder?

What is the difference between speed encoders and esc?

• Encoders determine the exact physical position of the motor at any one time
• ESCs actually drive the motor at a desired speed /position / whatever (see Robot Control)
• ESCs make the motor turn, uses information from encoder to determine what position the the motor is in
• Some ESC’s have a sort of inbuilt encoder that detects what phase angle the motor is in so it can control the motor effectively, this is usually used on brushless DC motors.
  • Think like the ODrive or the VESC