Magnetic rotary encoder
Pepperl+Fuchs ENA42HD magnetic rotary encoder
Heavy-duty 42 mm magnetic absolute encoder sealed to IP68 and IP69K, with 16-bit single-turn and 15-bit multi-turn resolution over CANopen, J1939, SSI, IO-Link or analogue, up to 6,000 rpm.
Key specifications
| Speed (max) | 6,000 rpm |
|---|---|
| Ingress protection | IP68 / IP69K |
| Data / bus | CANopen, SAE J1939, SSI, IO-Link, analogue |
| Resolution (max) | 31 bit |
| Resolution | 16 bit single-turn + 15 bit multi-turn |
| Housing | 42 |
Summarised in our own words from Pepperl+Fuchs SE (family-owned)'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Notes on this data
Temperature range not given in the overview.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Pepperl+Fuchs SE (family-owned). Pepperl+Fuchs and ENA42HD are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a Pepperl+Fuchs part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Incremental magnetic head in plastic or die-cast housing, RS422/TTL output. Works on linear and rotary scales.
View IKS9 / IKS9.1 →Compact incremental head with wide -40 to +125 C range; IKP11 is the open IP00 version. Works on linear and rotary scales.
View IKS11 / IKP11 →Incremental magnetic head with analogue sin/cos output. Works on linear and rotary scales.
View IKS15 / IKS15.1 →Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a magnetic rotary encoder is
A magnetic rotary encoder measures angle by sensing the field of a magnet with Hall-effect or magnetoresistive sensors. On-axis designs place a diametrically magnetised magnet on the shaft end above a sensor chip; off-axis designs read a multi-pole magnetic ring around a hollow shaft. Signal processing turns the field into absolute or incremental position. Because there is no optical path, magnetic encoders tolerate dust, oil, moisture and vibration, typically with moderate resolution and accuracy at low cost.
When engineers choose a magnetic rotary encoder
Choose a magnetic rotary encoder for robust, compact feedback in harsh or cost-sensitive applications, such as motors, AGVs, robotics, agricultural and mobile machinery. Off-axis rings suit hollow joints. The trade-offs are accuracy and magnetic interference: accuracy is typically lower than optical, and strong stray fields from brakes or motors can affect the reading. For high precision, choose optical. Consider shielding and mounting tolerances carefully.
How to specify the Pepperl+Fuchs ENA42HD
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ENA42HD variant or an equivalent:
- Resolution (bits or counts)
- Accuracy (degrees or arcmin)
- Absolute or incremental output
- On-axis or off-axis ring mounting
- Interface: SSI, BiSS, SPI, PWM or analogue
- Mounting tolerances: gap and runout (mm)
- Environment and IP code
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mounting near brakes or motor magnets without shielding
- Exceeding the allowed air gap or runout
- Expecting optical accuracy from a magnetic encoder
- Overlooking calibration after installation
Pepperl+Fuchs ENA42HD: frequently asked questions
What is the Pepperl+Fuchs ENA42HD?
Heavy-duty 42 mm magnetic absolute encoder sealed to IP68 and IP69K, with 16-bit single-turn and 15-bit multi-turn resolution over CANopen, J1939, SSI, IO-Link or analogue, up to 6,000 rpm. Published series figures include speed 6,000 rpm, resolution 31 bit. It is made by Pepperl+Fuchs SE (family-owned); Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the Pepperl+Fuchs ENA42HD?
The Pepperl+Fuchs ENA42HD is made by Pepperl+Fuchs (Pepperl+Fuchs SE (family-owned)) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with Pepperl+Fuchs SE (family-owned); brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the speed of the Pepperl+Fuchs ENA42HD?
The published series maximum speed is 6,000 rpm. Individual models and sizes in the ENA42HD range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the Pepperl+Fuchs ENA42HD?
Yes. On published figures, Bogen IKS9 / IKS9.1 and Bogen IKS11 / IKP11 are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
Are magnetic encoders as accurate as optical encoders?
Typically not. Magnetic encoders tolerate contamination and vibration well but usually have lower accuracy and resolution than optical encoders of similar size. Self-calibration and good mounting can improve results. For high-precision positioning and metrology, optical encoders remain the usual choice, while magnetic types win on robustness and cost.
What is the difference between on-axis and off-axis magnetic encoders?
On-axis encoders read a single magnet on the end of a shaft, which is simple and compact. Off-axis encoders read a magnetic ring around a shaft, which leaves the centre free for hollow shafts or cables. Off-axis designs are more sensitive to mounting tolerances.
Further reading: Magnetic vs capacitive vs optical encoders · How to select an encoder · Encoders and feedback
Other magnetic rotary encoder series
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