IKS4042 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The IKS4042 encoder cable is produced by Bosch Rexroth Indramat within the IKS Encoder Cables series. Intended for closed-loop servo systems, the assembly links an encoder on the motor to the drive controller, carrying position feedback and auxiliary control signals required for accurate axis regulation on automated machinery. By matching the pinout of the selected motor and controller interfaces, the cable works as a plug-in connection that reduces wiring effort while preserving the shielding and impedance needed for stable signal transmission. This arrangement supports reliable feedback exchange in servo applications where position data and control signals must travel together through moving cable routes.

Its mechanical profile starts with an 8.8 mm cable diameter, which supports compact routing while still accommodating twisted pairs and power cores. When mounted permanently, a minimum bend radius of 5×D is permitted, while dynamic festoon or drag-chain runs require a wider 7.5×D loop to protect the conductors during repeated motion. The PUR jacket has an adhesion-free matte surface in RAL 2003 orange and is rated for 5,000,000 drag-chain cycles, with resistance to oil and abrasion for industrial use. Signal conductors may operate up to 300 V in the control circuit. At the controller end, crimp pins are installed in a D-Sub 15-pin housing, and the motor end uses crimp sockets in an M23 12-pin shell. This connector arrangement supports direct attachment to compatible encoder and drive interfaces without extra adapter hardware.

Internally, the cable uses a conductor layout of 4×(2×0.25 mm²) + 2×0.5 mm², providing four individually shielded twisted pairs for encoder channels and two larger cores for auxiliary supply. Each signal conductor has a 0.25 mm² cross-section, which helps balance flexibility with electrical performance in continuously moving installations. The pair conductors have a resistance of 83.0 Ω/km, while the larger supply cores measure 39.5 Ω/km, giving clear electrical characteristics for length-dependent voltage drop and signal behavior. Polymer insulation and strand construction allow a conductor temperature of 90 °C. This temperature capability helps the cable operate in enclosed ducts and cable carriers where heat can build up during continuous machine operation.