Optical absolute encoder
HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000 optical absolute encoder
Miniature 35 mm absolute rotary encoders with a 6 mm blind hollow shaft and EnDat interface.
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Need HEIDENHAIN parts, a replacement or another suitable option? Send your part number or describe what the machine needs to do. We connect your requirement with experienced UK engineering and procurement support to help you get the right products, pricing and supply options. Your matched provider can take the enquiry through quotation and ordering to delivery and after-sales support.
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Select everything you need. A motor, drive and gearbox can be specified together as one axis.
Key specifications
| Bore (max) | 6 mm |
|---|---|
| Outer diameter (max) | 35 mm |
| Resolution (max) | 23 bit |
| Accuracy | positioning accuracy down to ±60" |
| Interface | EnDat |
Summarised in our own words from DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-29. Source 1
Notes on this data
23 bits derived from 8,388,608 positions/rev; multi-turn 4096 revs.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH. HEIDENHAIN and ECN / EQN 1000 are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000 replacement and alternative options
Use these supply-network options as a starting point for an engineering check. We can also help source the original HEIDENHAIN part. Published series figures do not establish an exact-model or drop-in replacement: confirm ratings, fit, interfaces and approvals for your application.
Highest-resolution Bogen absolute head, 21 to 24 bit, for linear and rotary scales.
| Published maximum | ECN / EQN 1000 | AKS17 |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 23 bit | 24 bit meets or exceeds |
Encapsulated, factory-assembled version of the VLX for easier installation; defence-tested.
| Published maximum | ECN / EQN 1000 | DS |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 23 bit | 23 bit meets or exceeds |
Multi-turn absolute hollow-shaft capacitive encoder that holds position through power loss, so no re-homing.
| Published maximum | ECN / EQN 1000 | VLM |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 23 bit | 32 bit meets or exceeds |
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.
Typical applications
What an optical absolute encoder is
An optical absolute encoder reads a unique code pattern on a disc or scale, so every position has its own digital value and position is known immediately at power-up. Single-turn encoders give position within one revolution; multi-turn encoders also count revolutions using gears or electronic counters. Position is sent over a serial interface such as SSI or BiSS, a manufacturer-specific protocol, or a fieldbus. Optical scanning gives high resolution, typically 17 bits per revolution or more in servo encoders, and good accuracy.
When engineers choose an optical absolute encoder
Choose an optical absolute encoder where knowing position at power-up matters, such as robots, machine tools, multi-axis machines and axes that cannot be homed safely. It removes homing routines and supports safety functions. The trade-offs are cost, interface compatibility and contamination sensitivity. Battery-backed multi-turn types need battery maintenance; gear or energy-harvesting types avoid that. In very dirty environments, magnetic or inductive absolute encoders may suit better.
How to specify the HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ECN / EQN 1000 variant or an equivalent:
- Single-turn resolution (bits)
- Multi-turn range (revolutions)
- Interface: SSI, BiSS, proprietary serial or fieldbus
- Accuracy (arcsec)
- Shaft or hollow shaft size (mm)
- Speed (rpm)
- Environment and safety rating
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing an interface the drive does not support
- Forgetting battery maintenance on battery-backed multi-turn types
- Confusing resolution with accuracy
- Ignoring cable length limits for serial interfaces
HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000: frequently asked questions
Can you help replace HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000 or source the original?
Send the full model code, quantity and required date. Our engineers can check original-part availability and assess suitable alternatives, including supply-network options where appropriate. We confirm compatibility and any changes needed before recommending a replacement.
What is the HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000?
Miniature 35 mm absolute rotary encoders with a 6 mm blind hollow shaft and EnDat interface. Published series figures include bore 6 mm, outer diameter 35 mm, resolution 23 bit. It is made by DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000?
The HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000 is made by HEIDENHAIN (DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the bore of the HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000?
The published series maximum bore is 6 mm. Individual models and sizes in the ECN / EQN 1000 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 HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000?
We can assess suitable replacement options. On published figures, Bogen AKS17 and Netzer Precision DS are options to assess from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is the difference between single-turn and multi-turn absolute encoders?
A single-turn absolute encoder knows its angle within one revolution. A multi-turn absolute encoder also counts complete revolutions, so it knows total position over many turns even after power loss. Multi-turn encoders avoid homing on axes driven through screws or gears.
Which interface should an absolute encoder use?
Use the interface supported by the drive or controller. SSI is simple and widely supported, BiSS-C is an open bidirectional protocol, and several manufacturer-specific protocols are common on machine tools and servo drives. Fieldbus encoders suit PLC networks. Check cable lengths and update rates for the control loop.
Further reading: Absolute vs incremental encoders · How to select an encoder · Encoders and feedback
Other optical absolute encoder series
Engineer support
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Tell us how you use the HEIDENHAIN ECN / EQN 1000: the load, speed, duty and environment. Our engineers will confirm whether it is still the right part, find it for you, or propose an alternative that fits better.
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