Optical incremental encoder
TR-Electronic IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders
Industrial-standard 58 mm incremental encoders with a glass disc giving up to 10,000 periods per turn, HTL, TTL or SinCos outputs and solid or hollow shafts.
Key specifications
| Data / bus | HTL, TTL, SinCos |
|---|---|
| Resolution | up to 10,000 periods per turn |
| Housing | 58 |
| Shaft | solid (IE58) or hollow (IH58) |
Summarised in our own words from TR Electronic GmbH's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Specify Motion is not affiliated with TR Electronic GmbH. TR-Electronic and IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
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Our experienced engineers are on hand, ready to help with your project. Whether you need the TR-Electronic IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders itself, help sourcing it, or a modified or custom design built around your load, speed and space, tell us what the machine has to do and we'll come back with the right option.
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What an optical incremental encoder is
An optical incremental encoder measures motion by shining light through or reflecting it from a disc or scale with fine graduations onto photodetectors. As the disc or scale moves, the encoder outputs two square-wave or sine-wave channels in quadrature, called A and B, plus an index pulse once per revolution or at reference marks. The counter in the drive or controller tracks position by counting edges from a home point. Optical encoders achieve very high resolution and accuracy.
When engineers choose an optical incremental encoder
Choose an optical incremental encoder for precise speed and position feedback where homing at power-up is acceptable, such as servo motors, stages and machine tools. They are widely compatible and cost effective. The trade-offs are contamination and power loss: dust, oil and condensation can obscure the optical path, and position is lost when power is removed. For harsh environments, magnetic or inductive encoders may suit better.
How to specify the TR-Electronic IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders variant or an equivalent:
- Resolution (lines per revolution or µm)
- Output type: TTL, HTL or sin/cos
- Index or reference marks
- Shaft or hollow shaft size (mm)
- Maximum speed (rpm or m/s)
- Supply voltage (V)
- Environment and IP code
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing resolution above what the drive input can count
- Running long cables with TTL signals without line drivers
- Ignoring contamination in open optical designs
- Forgetting homing routines after power-up
TR-Electronic IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders: frequently asked questions
What is the TR-Electronic IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders?
Industrial-standard 58 mm incremental encoders with a glass disc giving up to 10,000 periods per turn, HTL, TTL or SinCos outputs and solid or hollow shafts. It is made by TR Electronic GmbH; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the TR-Electronic IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders?
The TR-Electronic IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders is made by TR-Electronic (TR Electronic GmbH) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with TR Electronic GmbH; brand names are used only to identify the product.
Is there an alternative to the TR-Electronic IE58 / IH58 incremental encoders?
Yes. Our engineers can propose an equivalent built around your load, speed and environment. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is quadrature output on an incremental encoder?
Quadrature output provides two channels, A and B, offset by 90 electrical degrees. Comparing which leads gives direction, and counting edges on both gives four times the line count in resolution. An index pulse marks a reference position for homing.
What is the difference between TTL and HTL outputs?
TTL outputs use a 5 V differential signal, which suits high frequencies and is commonly used with line drivers. HTL outputs use a higher voltage swing, typically matched to a 10 to 30 V supply, which improves noise immunity on long cables. Match the output type to the drive or controller input.
Further reading: Absolute vs incremental encoders · How to select an encoder · Encoders and feedback
Other optical incremental encoder series
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