What type of feedback is provided by an encoder in a servo motor?

Encoders in servo motors primarily provide position feedback, which is crucial for precise control of the motor's shaft position. By sensing the exact location of the motor shaft, encoders help the control system determine whether the motor is where it is supposed to be as commanded by the control input. This feedback allows for real-time adjustments to the motor's operation, ensuring accurate positioning as well as enabling the system to perform tasks such as following a trajectory or maintaining a set position against external disturbances.

Position feedback is vital in applications where accuracy is significant, such as robotics, CNC machinery, and other automated processes. The information from the encoder enables the control loop to calculate the difference between the current position and the desired position, allowing for corrective movements to be made to minimize any positional error. This feedback mechanism is a key aspect of servo motor applications, ensuring high performance and responsiveness in control systems.