Magnetic rotary encoder
Bogen AKS17 magnetic rotary encoder
Highest-resolution Bogen absolute head, 21 to 24 bit, for linear and rotary scales.
Need this part, a replacement or a better-fit option? Our engineers help with selection, procurement, sourcing, competitive pricing and lead times.
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Need Bogen parts, a replacement or another suitable option? Send your part number or describe the application. We’ll review the requirement and help with product selection, sourcing, pricing and lead times.
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Key specifications
| Ingress protection | IP67 (FFC) |
|---|---|
| Resolution (max) | 24 bit |
| Interface | BiSS-C, SSI, ABZ |
| Temp | -40 to +100 C |
Series ranges as published; individual models vary. The full datasheet, drawings and CAD models are available on request.
Bogen AKS17 replacement and alternative options
Use these supply-network options as a starting point for an engineering check. We can also help source the original Bogen part. Published series figures do not establish an exact-model or drop-in replacement: confirm ratings, fit, interfaces and approvals for your application.
Multi-turn absolute hollow-shaft capacitive encoder that holds position through power loss, so no re-homing.
| Published maximum | AKS17 | VLM |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 24 bit | 32 bit meets or exceeds |
Ultra-high-precision capacitive encoder with a bearing-like design, the most accurate in the range.
| Published maximum | AKS17 | VLZ |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 24 bit | 26 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 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 Bogen AKS17
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right AKS17 variant:
- 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
Bogen AKS17: frequently asked questions
Can you help replace Bogen AKS17 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 Motion Control Products options where appropriate. We confirm compatibility and any changes needed before recommending a replacement.
What is the Bogen AKS17?
Highest-resolution Bogen absolute head, 21 to 24 bit, for linear and rotary scales. Published series figures include resolution 24 bit. It is available through our supply network, and our engineers can confirm the right variant for your application.
Who makes the Bogen AKS17?
The Bogen AKS17 is made by Bogen (Bogen Magnetics) available through our supply network. Send us your requirement for pricing, lead time, datasheets and CAD.
What is the resolution of the Bogen AKS17?
The published series maximum resolution is 24 bit. Individual models and sizes in the AKS17 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 Bogen AKS17?
We can assess suitable replacement options. On published figures, Netzer Precision VLM and Netzer Precision VLZ are options to assess 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
Often compared with
Engineers specifying this series often compare it with:
Other magnetic rotary encoder series
Engineer support
Need Bogen AKS17 or a complete system around it?
Tell us what you need, whether it is this part, an equivalent or a complete axis built around it. An engineer will review your requirements and reply, normally within one working day.
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- Like-for-like and better-fit alternatives
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