Next-gen Profinet absolute encoders help to cut cycle times
23 May 2025 
The German sensor-maker Sick Sensor Intelligence has announced a new generation of absolute encoders designed to help deliver higher machine and system productivity. Available in single- and multi-turn versions, the compact ANS/ANM58 encoders support the latest Profinet Ethernet specification with Encoder Profile version 4.2. They provide rapid, bi-directional communications with PLCs for shorter cycle times, precise control of movements, and rapid integration.
The encoders have been designed to meet the growing demand for precise and clock-synchronous motion control, condition monitoring of machines and systems, short cycle times, and easy installation.
Users can configure their ideal encoder, choosing between single- or multi-turn versions with resolutions of 18 bits (262,144 steps/turn) or 34 bits (262,144 steps/turn x 65,536 turns). The encoders’ space-saving design is suitable for demanding installations, with the shortest versions being just 39mm long. There is a choice of mounting options, including flat or narrow housings, as well as axial or radial plugs.
The encoders come in solid-shaft, blind hollow-shaft or through hollow-shaft versions, with a choice of flanges. They can be installed directly onto mechanics or mounted with wire-draw mechanisms or rotary measuring wheels to monitor linear motion. The encoders can be tailored to specific applications using Sick’s Sopas configuration tool, or during integration into a control system using Siemens TIA Portal.
The Profinet specification with the v4.2 encoder profile allows processes to be to executed precisely and cycle times to be reduced using the IRT (Isochronous Real Time) function. A new high-resolution opto-ASIC facilitates the planning and implementation of controlled movements of drives and axes, providing precise measurements of position, speed and displacement.
Process steps can be coordinated precisely, particularly in complex systems. Examples include the synchronisation of processes in packaging machinery, the repeatable recording of positions and measurement of movements for precise control in mechanical engineering, and the efficient automation of transport and handling processes in storage and conveyor systems.
The encoders can provide process-related diagnostic data and enable condition-based system maintenance both for themselves and for the mechanical systems that they are connected to, thus reducing unplanned downtime. The diagnostic data can include temperature, speed, counter functions and timestamps, which can be used to configure application-specific limits and to create warning limits for maintenance and servicing.
Darren Pratt, Sick UK’s product manager for motion control sensors and identification, says that the new encoders are suitable for almost any industrial application that moves. “They bring together all our encoder technology know-how to create a new generation of absolute encoders designed to meet individual installation requirements, achieve clock-synchronous processes and deliver higher productivity. From the first encoder, Sick has been at the forefront, and the ANS/ANM58 is the next step in motion sensor technology, providing state-of-the-art performance, real-time communication, diagnostic information and versatility, alongside easy programming and integration.”
