Is 4–20 mA better than 0–10 V?
Neither is universally better. 4–20 mA is often more robust over longer industrial runs, while voltage output can be simpler when the controller and wiring environment are suitable.
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Encoder interface guide
4–20 mA and Voltage Output Position Sensors
Compare 4–20 mA, 0–10 V and 0–5 V absolute encoder and draw-wire position outputs for PLC integration.
DIRECT ANSWER
Analog position sensors convert absolute angle or linear travel into a PLC-ready current or voltage signal. A 4–20 mA output is generally preferred for longer industrial cable runs and fault detection, while 0–10 V or 0–5 V can suit shorter runs and compatible analog inputs. Output span, supply and scaling must be confirmed together.
✓ 4–20 mA current-loop output✓ 0–10 V and 0–5 V options✓ Rotary angle or draw-wire travel✓ Direct connection to compatible PLC analog inputs
SELECTION TABLE
Analog output comparison
Use this table as an initial engineering checklist. Final model configuration must be confirmed against the controller, mechanical drawing and operating environment.
OutputTypical selection consideration
4–20 mAGood noise immunity and broken-wire detection; confirm loop supply and input type
0–10 VSimple voltage scaling; cable resistance and electrical noise require attention
0–5 VUseful for compatible lower-voltage controllers; confirm common ground and input range
Dual outputSome projects combine digital and analog feedback; verify both outputs and isolation
ENGINEERING PROCESS
How to select the right configuration
- 01
Confirm the PLC analog input type and supply.
- 02
Define the physical zero and full-scale angle or travel.
- 03
Calculate required accuracy from sensor linearity and PLC conversion.
- 04
Confirm cable length, grounding, enclosure and mechanical drawing.
RELEVANT PRODUCTS
Technical product pages
Analog Output IP54 Absolute Encoder
Non-contact IP54 absolute angle measurement for direct PLC analog input.
View parameters and drawings →
Analog Draw-wire Displacement Sensor
Direct analog linear-position feedback for standard PLC current and voltage inputs.
View parameters and drawings →COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Can an analog encoder remember position after power loss?
An absolute sensing element can report the current physical position after power returns. Whether multi-turn history is retained depends on the specific encoder design.
Can the output direction and span be customized?
Many industrial analog encoder configurations allow direction, zero and span settings, but the exact adjustment method must be confirmed by model.
RELATED GUIDANCE
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EDITORIAL SCOPE
How this guidance is prepared
FOSAI consolidates available supplier technical material into a buyer-oriented selection guide. Parameters, certifications and compatibility are not generalized across every model; the final suffix, controlled drawing and project conditions must be confirmed before ordering.
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