What is Endat? The role of the encoder protocol in modern industries

Rotary encoders, angular encoders, or linear encoders from Heidenhain, Leine Linde, RSF,... all come with the Endat protocol. In addition to decoding the importance of Endat encoders in modern industries, AMS advises on selecting encoders with the Endat protocol that meet your needs. Let's explore the detailed article below together!

1. What is an Endat encoder?

Endat encoder (encoder data) is a digital protocol developed by Heidenhain, playing a crucial role in data transmission between the encoder and control devices (CNC, Servo, etc.). The Endat technology has proven its extensive capabilities, with ultra-fast data transmission speeds and reliable diagnostics for automation systems.

In 1995, the first version of Endat, called Endat 2.1, was launched, including features such as automatic system installation, electronic identification labels, OEM memory, timeline changes, alarms, and warnings. This version laid the foundation for research to enhance availability while expanding new capabilities in the future.

By 2003, Endat 2.2 marked the transition to completely serial data transmission, while maintaining high compatibility with the previous version. This version adds functionality in the following areas: Functional safety; temperature sensors; online diagnostics (functional redundancy); HMC 6 hybrid cable technology; support for additional types of encoders (e.g., encoders with backup batteries).

And most recently in 2019, Heidenhain introduced the future of Endat with the Endat 3 version. Continuing to maintain existing features and leveraging strengths, including simple cable connections, improved functional safety design, and new options for sensor integration.

2. Why Heidenhain focuses on the future of Endat 3

Endat 3 is a new, more comprehensive version. Clearly, it meets the inevitable trend of the era's demands for industries.

2.1 Universality

• A diverse range of encoders from various manufacturers

• Convenient cable connection

• Ability to integrate additional sensors

2.2 Diagnostics-capable

• Electronic identification labels for automatic system installation

• Online encoder diagnostics

• Storing operational status data

2.3 Safety and high performance

For safety-related applications, achieving SIL 3 level:

• Short cycle: Can achieve an accuracy of 15 µs with low position measurement noise

• High bandwidth: Speed of 12.5 Mbps at a cable length of 100 m or 25 Mbps at a length of 40 m

2.4 Communication method

• Comprehensive system monitoring for industry 4.0

• Transmitting position values and sensor data

3. The role of Endat in modern industries

The progress and continuous improvement of Endat have become the reason why machinery and equipment manufacturers worldwide choose to take advantage of it. With Endat 2.2, there are always encoder sets available for every application, therefore, the product catalog for Endat 3 is also being finalized.

Here are some industries that can maximize the potential benefits of Endat 3.

3.1 Automation

• HMC 2 hybrid cable

• Bus operation

• Sensor integration (for example: easy connection of temperature sensors inside servo motors, with the ability to select characteristic curves for KTY 84-130 or PT1000)

• Collecting and storing operational status data

• System information for automatic configuration

• Diagnostic capability

• Functional safety

3.2 Machine tool

• High mechanical strength cable system

• Integration of complex sensors and sensor boxes

• Multidimensional measurement technology System information for automatic configuration

• Diagnostic capability

• Functional safety

3.3 Electronics industry

• Reduce weight with thinner cables and operate in a bus configuration.

• Multidimensional measurement technology

• System information for automatic configuration

• Diagnostic capability

4. Choose the appropriate encoder with the Endat protocol

Here is the catalog of rotary encoders and connection technology with the Endat 3 protocol:

• Inductive rotary encoder ECI/EQI 1100 for small motors

• Inductive rotary encoder ECI/EQI 1300 for larger motors

• Hybrid motor cable HMC 2 with M12 or M23 connectors

5. AMS supplies Endat encoder product lines

AMS offers product solutions suitable for your industry and compatible with your machinery and equipment. We are happy to provide you with the EnDat 3 specifications upon request:

• EnDat 3 interface specification

• EnDat 3 hardware specifications

• EnDat 3 application conditions for functional safety

• Main guide of EnDat 3

• EnDat 3 Application Notes

If you need further information and have any questions that need answering, contact AMS to receive support and advice from our experienced engineering team.

6. Conclusion

With the Endat 3 protocol, industries benefit greatly, especially in digitizing production, meeting the requirements of Industry 4.0, and much more. The common point of all these industries is the demand for features such as advanced diagnostic capabilities and the storage of operational status data. Thank you for following the article and don't forget to follow us for the latest technical articles from AMS.

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