RKG4204 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The RKG4204 is an encoder feedback cable produced by Bosch Rexroth Indramat, and it belongs to the RKG Encoder Cables series. It serves as the dedicated transmission link between a motor-mounted encoder and the drive controller, carrying incremental or absolute position signals as well as auxiliary power conductors. By matching the electrical pinout and shielding layout used for Rexroth encoder ports, the cable supports deterministic position reporting in industrial automation axes. Its shielding arrangement also helps protect low-voltage feedback channels from electrical noise generated by nearby motor and brake wiring.

This model is rated for 5 million flex cycles and withstands continuous motion in cable chains without conductor fatigue. Its internal lay consists of 4P0.25 + 2×0.5, meaning four twisted signal pairs of 0.25 mm² plus two 0.5 mm² power lines, so signal integrity is maintained while current-carrying capacity is reserved for the encoder supply. With an outer diameter of 8.5 mm, the cable fits standard glands and chain compartments with predictable space requirements. During motion, the cable must observe a dynamic bend radius of 7.5 × D, limiting mechanical stress on the copper strands. The jacket material is PUR, providing abrasion resistance, oil tolerance, and suitability for drag-chain applications where PVC insulation would crack under repeated flexing.

The motor side terminates in an RGS1001/C01 mating connector, while the controller side uses an RGS1002/C01 plug, ensuring keyed engagement and strain relief for ten-pin encoder sockets. The bulk cable code REG0748 matches Rexroth stocking records for this assembly. Each connector carries 10 contacts that route differential encoder signals, reference voltage, and power conductors, and unused cores are omitted to minimize diameter and capacitance. The matched connectors keep pin assignment consistent from end to end, which supports reliable feedback transmission and reduces the chance of misalignment during cable routing. The conductors include a 0.5 mm² pair for sensor supply, and the cable is halogen-free to reduce toxic smoke in the event of a cabinet fire.