IKS4041 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The IKS4041 encoder cable is manufactured by Bosch Rexroth Indramat as part of the IKS Encoder Cables series. It is used to carry incremental or sinusoidal 1 Vss feedback between servo encoders and drive controllers, supporting precise position control in automated machinery. A total-shield construction surrounds the twisted pairs so electromagnetic interference picked up along machine axes does not corrupt the feedback signal.

The outer diameter measures 9.7 mm, giving the cable the cross-section needed to house eight control conductors, two power wires, and the overall braid. A jacket made of PUR resists cutting fluids and continuous motion, while its Orange (RAL 2003) color helps with line identification inside energy chains. On the controller side, a compact D-sub connector matches standard encoder interfaces, and the motor end terminates in a keyed M23 12-pin socket that locks against vibration. Inside the sheath, 4 × 2 × 0.14 mm² twisted pairs carry differential channel signals, while 4 × 0.14 mm² auxiliary conductors carry reference or temperature leads. Separate 2 × 1.0 mm² supply wires support sensor power without excessive voltage drop, and the halogen-free jacket helps reduce toxic emissions during a fire.

The cable endures 5,000,000 bending cycles in drag-chain service, reflecting a design for high-duty dynamic axes. When clamped in a stationary run, the minimum bend radius is 5 x D. During continuous flexing, the minimum bend radius is 7.5 x D to help prevent conductor fatigue. Copper strands can operate at a conductor temperature of 80 °C without loss of dielectric integrity, allowing placement near motors or brakes that dissipate heat. Total shielding around the signal pairs maintains low-noise 1 Vss transmission even at maximum chain lengths, and the halogen-free PUR jacket adds oil and abrasion resistance.