Z-Pulse or the Index Channel of Optical Encoder！

Certain incremental encoders have another channel called the Index Channel or
Z-pulse (zero position pulse). This output pulses once per revolution of the encoder, and it’s used to indicate when the encoder disc crosses the fixed zero position inside the encoder (Image 2).
The Z-pulse can be used to reset a counter, or it can be used for very precise homing.
For example, consider a servo drive that uses an incremental encoder as a feedback device. The servo can home to an external signal (a proximity switch, mechanical limit switch, etc.) then proceed to the next occurrence of the encoder’s Z-pulse for extremely accurate positioning.
Typically, the encoder’s Z-pulse is factory set and cannot be moved. However, several families of encoders offer “servo mounting clamps” that allow the body of the encoder to be rotated, or “clocked,” after installation, so the Z-pulse signal occurs in the desired position relative to a machine function.

absolute encoder, incremental encoder, hybrid encoder, non-magnetic encoder, multi-turn encoder, multi-turn combination encoder, draw wire encoder, digital readout, linear scale

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