RKG5024 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The RKG5024 is an encoder feedback cable produced by Bosch Rexroth Indramat within the RKG Encoder Cables series. It links Heidenhain encoders mounted on synchronous or servo motors to drive controllers, ensuring position data travels without timing errors in automated machinery. By maintaining shield continuity and matched impedance, the cable helps drive systems keep closed-loop accuracy during rapid motion profiles on assembly lines, packaging machines, and CNC axes.

The cable uses a Angular Motor Plug (AMP) at the motor end, so installation is possible in confined housings while the angled body avoids excessive bend radii. At the controller side, the signal pair terminates on the drive's X48 (input) socket, providing a direct route into the control electronics. Encoder feedback is accepted through a 17-Pin Circular (Heidenhain) connector that supplies digital words via the SSI interface; this synchronous serial format transmits position and diagnostic bits in a single differential stream. Power for the sensing electronics is delivered on the dedicated supply cores marked P5V and 0 V, and an internal screen surrounds the twisted pairs to attenuate common-mode noise induced by motor phase currents.

The conductor pairs follow the specified color code of Green/Black; Yellow/Black, allowing quick continuity checks during field service. A second drive header, X49 (replica), carries a duplicate data stream for optional monitoring devices without loading the primary bus. Voltage drop across long runs is minimized by the remote-sense leads labeled Psense and Msense, which let the controller adjust the 5 V rail at the encoder rather than at the source. The replica connection allows optional monitoring without adding electrical load to the main feedback path.