Motor Feedback Systems
There are two main technologies that report a servo motor's speed and angle to the controller: Encoders and Resolvers. Although they serve the same purpose, their principles and durability differ completely.
What is an Encoder?
It contains a transparent glass disk and an LED. It produces digital signals based on light passing through the disk. Advantage: Incredibly precise. Disadvantage: Highly fragile to shocks, extreme heat, and dust/oil due to its glass and electronic board.
What is a Resolver?
It has no electronic circuits or glass. It is a mini-transformer made entirely of coil windings. It generates analog signals (Sin/Cos) via electromagnetic field changes. Advantage: Nearly immortal against extreme heat (200°C), vibration, and oil. Used in heavy industry. Disadvantage: Not as high-resolution as encoders.
Calibration and Repair
We repair broken optical encoders and calibrate heavy industry resolver units using oscilloscopes for zero-point alignment.