Learn Robotics Programming

Types of encoders

The following photo shows some ways that you can measure movement, along with an encoder wheel and strip:

Encoder sensors

The sensors shown in the preceding picture fall into a few categories, and correspond to the points that follow:

1. This is a variable resistor. These analog devices can measure a turn, but don't tend to allow continuous rotation. They have mechanical wipers on a metal or resistant track, which can wear down. This is not strictly an encoder, but handy. On the Pi, they require analogue to digital conversion, so they aren't really suitable for this application. They are used inside servo motors.
2. This motor ...