An encoder, used as a servo feedback device, primarily provides which type of measurement?

An encoder, used as a servo feedback device, primarily provides which type of measurement?

• A. Temperature
• B. Position (and speed)
• C. Pressure
• D. Humidity

Answer: (B)

An encoder used as servo feedback measures the shaft’s position and speed. As the motor rotates, the encoder generates pulses or digital data that the drive uses to determine where the shaft is and how fast it’s turning. Counting pulses gives the position (how far the shaft has moved), and the rate of pulse output gives the speed. Incremental encoders provide relative position by counting pulses, while absolute encoders give a unique position value even if power is lost. This feedback allows the controller to compare the actual position or speed with the commanded values and adjust the motor drive to minimize error, ensuring precise, stable motion. Other measurements like temperature, pressure, or humidity are environmental properties, not shaft motion, so they aren’t used as the standard servo feedback signal.

An encoder used as servo feedback measures the shaft’s position and speed. As the motor rotates, the encoder generates pulses or digital data that the drive uses to determine where the shaft is and how fast it’s turning. Counting pulses gives the position (how far the shaft has moved), and the rate of pulse output gives the speed. Incremental encoders provide relative position by counting pulses, while absolute encoders give a unique position value even if power is lost. This feedback allows the controller to compare the actual position or speed with the commanded values and adjust the motor drive to minimize error, ensuring precise, stable motion. Other measurements like temperature, pressure, or humidity are environmental properties, not shaft motion, so they aren’t used as the standard servo feedback signal.