IFM absolute multiturn encoders provide precise position measurement across multiple revolutions of a rotating shaft. Unlike singleturn encoders, they record both the angular position within one revolution and the number of revolutions completed. Selected models provide resolutions up to 24 bit with 4,096 position steps per revolution and 4,096 revolutions. Magnetic and gear-free sensing technologies enable reliable position detection without a battery buffer on applicable designs. These encoders are suitable for demanding industrial automation, mobile machinery, positioning, and motion-control applications.
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Absolute multiturn encoders determine the exact shaft position over multiple complete revolutions. The encoder can therefore provide both angular position and accumulated rotational movement to the controller. This is particularly valuable for applications involving linear movement generated through screw drives, rotary positioning systems, and long travel mechanisms. High-resolution measurement enables accurate and repeatable motion control. The technology eliminates the limitations of single-revolution position tracking.
A major advantage of absolute multiturn technology is the availability of position information without conventional incremental referencing. IFM multiturn designs can retain revolution information using a gear-free system based on the Wiegand effect, without requiring a battery buffer. This allows the controller to receive the actual position after a power interruption. Reduced referencing requirements can shorten machine restart procedures. It also improves operational reliability in automated positioning systems.
IFM multiturn encoders are available with high-resolution position measurement for demanding motion-control applications. The RM8004, for example, provides 4,096 steps per revolution and 4,096 revolutions for a 24-bit measurement range. The encoder uses binary coding and CAN/CANopen communication for industrial controller integration. Parameterisation can include scaling, preset, baud rate, direction of rotation, and node ID. These functions provide flexible adaptation to different machine-control architectures.
The product family includes solid-shaft and hollow-shaft versions to accommodate different mechanical installation requirements. Hollow-shaft models can be mounted directly around suitable machine shafts, while solid-shaft models are suitable for coupling-based installations. Available shaft diameters vary by product and include options such as 6 mm, 10 mm, and 12 mm. M12 connectors and industrial flange designs support practical machine integration on applicable versions. This flexibility makes the range suitable for motors, drives, rotary tables, mobile machines, and positioning systems.
Absolute position measurement over multiple revolutions
Up to 24-bit resolution on applicable models
4,096 position steps per revolution on applicable models
Up to 4,096 revolutions on applicable models
Gear-free multiturn position detection on applicable designs
Wiegand-effect energy generation on applicable multiturn systems
CAN/CANopen communication on applicable models
IO-Link communication on applicable models
Binary or configured position data
Programmable scaling and preset functions
Solid-shaft and hollow-shaft versions
High resistance to shock and vibration
Rotary positioning systems
Mobile machine steering and positioning
Servo and drive systems
Linear-axis position feedback
Rotary tables and indexing systems
Conveyor positioning
Crane and lifting equipment
Material-handling machinery
Machine-tool applications
Industrial automation systems
Absolute multiturn encoders can communicate position data directly to industrial control systems through interfaces such as CANopen or IO-Link, depending on the model. CANopen versions support parameters such as node ID, baud rate, scaling, preset, and rotation direction. IO-Link versions provide parameterisation and diagnostic capabilities through the connected IO-Link master. This reduces the need for additional signal-conditioning equipment. It also supports easier integration into modern automation architectures.
IFM multiturn encoders are designed for industrial environments where reliable rotary feedback is essential. Depending on the model, protection ratings can reach IP65/IP67, while selected designs provide strong resistance to shock and vibration. The RM8004, for example, is specified for -40...85 °C ambient operation and high mechanical resistance. Stainless-steel and aluminium construction options provide robust mechanical protection. These characteristics make the encoders suitable for demanding machinery and mobile applications.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Category | Absolute multiturn encoder |
| Measurement Type | Absolute rotary position |
| Revolution Type | Multiturn |
| Sensing Technology | Magnetic / gear-free technology, depending on model |
| Resolution | Up to 24 bit |
| Position Steps | Up to 4,096 steps/revolution |
| Revolution Counting | Up to 4,096 revolutions |
| Total Measurement Range | Up to 24-bit multiturn range |
| Position Output | Absolute position value |
| Referencing | Not required for absolute position acquisition |
| Position Retention | Available through multiturn energy-generation technology on applicable models |
| Shaft Design | Solid shaft / hollow shaft |
| Hollow Shaft Example | 12 mm, RM8004 |
| Solid Shaft Options | 6 mm / 10 mm, depending on model |
| Communication | CAN/CANopen or IO-Link, depending on model |
| CAN Baud Rate | 125 kbit/s factory setting on RM8004 |
| CAN Node ID | 32 factory setting on RM8004 |
| IO-Link Version | 1.1 on applicable IO-Link models |
| IO-Link Speed | COM3, 230.4 kBaud on applicable models |
| Coding | Binary on RM8004 |
| Accuracy | 0.25° on RM8004 |
| Operating Voltage | 9...30 V DC on RM8004 |
| Protection Class | Class III |
| Reverse Polarity Protection | Yes |
| Short-Circuit Protection | Yes |
| Ambient Temperature | -40...85 °C on RM8004 |
| Protection Rating | IP65/IP67, depending on model |
| Parameterisation | Scaling, preset, baud rate, direction, node ID on CAN models |
| Typical Applications | Positioning, motion control, mobile machinery, automation |
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