IKS0103 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The IKS0103 encoder cable is manufactured by Bosch Rexroth Indramat as part of the IKS Encoder Cables series. It serves as the fixed interface between motors fitted with Indramat encoders and the corresponding drive or motion controller, transmitting incremental or absolute position data along with the reference voltages required for closed-loop control. The cable is intended for routing through drag chains on moving machine axes, so its construction balances electrical fidelity with the repeated mechanical flexing common in CNC machines, gantries, and automated assembly stations.

A flex life of 5 million bending cycles indicates suitability for continuous motion stages. The bulk cable core is coded REG0013, identifying the conductor size and insulation geometry used across the series. Its overall length is 10.0 m, which covers most controller-to-motor separations without added junctions that could introduce signal loss. A full-coverage foil-braid design described as Total Shield surrounds the twisted pairs to reduce EMI in environments with switching drives. Control cores are rated for 300 V, allowing the same harness to carry supply lines for encoder electronics without exceeding insulation limits. The PUR jacket resists oil and abrasion while maintaining the flexibility needed for repetitive chain travel.

The controller end uses the keyed INS0760 D-Sub housing with 15 contacts, while the motor end terminates in an INS0672 circular plug with ten signal pins. The minimum dynamic bend radius is 7.5 × D, so chain troughs must be sized accordingly, while static runs can tighten to 5 × D. The orange sheath follows color code RAL 2003 for quick visual identification and remains halogen-free to minimize corrosive gases during a fire. When installed in an energy chain, the assembly can accompany carriages that travel horizontally up to 15 m without tensile strain components.