RG2-013ABB by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The RG2-013ABB is an encoder cable produced by Bosch Rexroth Indramat for the RG2 Encoder Cables series. This flexible lead links MAD or MAF servo motors to ctrlX DRIVE or other Rexroth positioning drives, carrying analog position feedback signals from the motor-mounted sensor back to the drive controller. In automated machinery, the cable maintains signal integrity between moving axes and stationary control cabinets, enabling precise closed-loop motion control without added interface modules.

The cable core is built for repeated motion and is rated for 5 million flex cycles in energy-chain installations. To reduce conductor fatigue, the minimum dynamic bend radius is 7.5 × D, while stationary routing can use a tighter 4 × D bend. Each shielded pair uses a conductor cross-section of 0.50 mm², matching the signal current levels of typical inductive encoders. An integrated twisted-pair layout helps keep analog channels stable across an operating range of -20 to 80 °C. Termination on the motor end uses an M23 encoder connector with a sealed and keyed interface for secure attachment. The cable is intended for drag-chain, gantry, and robot-joint routing where repeated flexing is common.

RG2 cable assemblies belong to the 2nd Generation of Rexroth signal cables and use a Basic design that omits additional bus wires to keep the outer diameter low. The analog wiring scheme matches the feedback electronics used in ctrlX DRIVE inverters and connects directly to MAD/MAF motor encoders without intermediary terminal blocks. When equipment is idle, the cable can be stored from -40 to 80 °C without changing insulation resistance. The Basic construction also helps when routing the cable through narrow cabinet glands. The cable carries differential sine-cosine signals with controlled impedance for use in multi-axis production lines.