Hobbyists need an inexpensive way to use incremental encoders for robot control.
My first real robotics project requires incremental encoders to provide feedback for motor controls and position. There are so many options available in industrial catalogs at exorbitant prices that it's almost impossible for hobbyists to afford.
After conducting some research, I found that incremental encoders provide pulse trains which allow an encoder to inform controllers of changes in position and speed. There are many options for finding affordable incremental encoders on Alibaba, as they offer a large selection of incremental encoders produced by several different manufacturers. Many different output resolutions and output configurations exist for these encoders, which allows for an affordable solution for most projects.
The Maker and Robotics Facebook communities have been very helpful in providing recommendations on all types of components and will often include suggestions on incremental encoders that many different builders have used in their own applications.
What is the best resolution for PPR when using an incremental encoder for a hobbyist's motor control application? Is the protection level of the encoder housing important to a hobbyist with an indoor robot? Please share your experiences in finding low-cost incremental encoders!