What are Sincos Encoder Signals and how to connect them to Altivar Sincos encoder card?

There are many types of sincos encoders. What they have in common are sinus and cosinus signals and supply voltage.
Sinus and cosinus signals are usually differential and labeled as  SIN+, SIN-, COS+, COS-, but sometimes S+, S-, C+, C-. If the sincos encoder has signals described as A+, A-, B+, B-, then A+, A- are cosinus signals and B+, B- are sinus signals.
Supply voltage pins are easily recognizable, typically V+ and 0V

Depending on the encoder type, there might be additional (optional) signals.
Zero signal (differential) usually with the label R+, R- is a signal that occurs once per revolution. Sometimes also called reference signal. Zero signal in sincos interface is analog, but in digital encoders, zero pulse is digital signal.
The encoder may provide both sincos and EnDat signals. To process EnDat signals, the encoder card must provide EnDat interface. EnDat signals are  D+ (data+), D- (Data-), CL+ (clock+), CL-(clock-). SinCos encoder cards that do not have enDat interface will work with such an encoder, but only sincos signals will be processed. (EnDat signals will not be connected)
The encoder type may be sincos hiperface. In this case hiperface signals (Data+ and data-) are added to sinus and cosinus signals. Data+ and data- as part of hiperface interface helps VSD to automatically identify encoder type and very often hiperface serves also motor data.
Commutation signals may exist in encoders that are already linked to synchronous motors or brushless DC motors by motor manufacturers. Commutation is a process of putting current into correct motor windings for correct positioning. More often used in resolvers. Commutation signals are usually marked as C+, C-, D+, D-
If the encoder passes the temperature value from motor temperature sensor, there will be Temp+ and Temp- signals.

An example for the connection ERN487 sincos encoder to VW3A3409 card is in the attachment.

Released for:Schneider Electric Vietnam