Magnetic encoders for motion control

Through its associate company RLS, Renishaw provides an extensive range of robust magnetic encoder systems and components. Learn how our absolute and incremental magnetic technology, supported by a non-contact design, is essential for rugged applications with even the toughest requirements.

Find your magnetic encoder

Magnetic encoders, also known as motion sensors, provide precise and reliable position measurement for both linear and rotary motion. Linear encoder systems measure displacement along a magnetised scale, while rotary encoders track the rotation of a shaft or ring. Rotary encoder systems are available in on-axis and off-axis (through-hole) configurations, with axially or radially magnetised rings, enabling angle measurement in compact, integrated designs. In all configurations, a readhead detects changes in the magnetic field and converts them into an electrical signal.

The linear and rotary magnetic encoders by RLS are designed to meet the demands of harsh and challenging environments, including heavy machinery, advanced surgical systems, collaborative and industrial robots, and aerospace applications. Solutions are also available for extreme conditions such as submarine and solar power plants.

To help you to choose a magnetic encoder, the encoder selector tool guides you through compatible readheads, magnets, and components. In addition, our engineering expertise and innovative approach enable us to develop customised encoder solutions tailored to specific application requirements.

What type of magnetic encoder do you need?

RMB30 magnetic encoder from RLS on a plinth with a white background

For rotary position measurement where space is limited.

PCB and IC

RM08 magnetic encoder from RLS on a plinth with a white background

For rotary position measurement at the end of the axis.

Shaftless

RE16 magnetic encoder from RLS on a plinth with a white background

For rotary position measurement of axes with solid or hollow shafts.

Shaft

For measuring rotation of small or large-diameter through-hole setups.

Ring

HiLin magnetic encoder from RLS on a plinth with a white background

For straight-line position measurement of X, Y or Z axes, for example.

Linear

Provides precise linear in-axis position measurement.

InAxis

The relationship with Renishaw has been really good. What we like most is the wide range of options and the ability to customise every component. RLS encoders have many configurations: it is possible to choose from many different communications protocols, sensor sizes, and interfaces. The more parameters for us the better, as every time we want to make robots that are lighter, more compact and more capable.

PAL Robotics (Spain)

Tablet held by two hands and displaying a RLS encoders installation guide

Find out the technical specifications for our magnetic encoder series, their options and variants, via our technical documents downloads.

Technical documents downloads

Discover our magnetic encoder success stories that illustrate how we meet global market demands in a range of applications.

Case studies

Discover our range of open and enclosed optical, inductive, and laser encoders designed to meet your industrial automation needs.

Contact our sales team today

Get in contact with your local office to find out more information and speak to an expert.