增量式編碼器能夠對直線運動或旋轉運動做出響應，產生一系列脈沖。這些脈沖可用于測量速度，也可輸入到可編程邏輯控制器（PLC）或計數器中，以記錄相對位置。增量式編碼器的輸出信號通常為電方波信號，其頻率與編碼器軸的轉速相關。

An incremental encoder generates a series of pulses in response to a linear or rotary motion. These pulses can be used to measure speed or be fed to a PLC (Programable Logic Controller) or counter to keep track of a relative position. The output signal of an incremental encoder is normally an electrical square wave signal with a certain frequency related to the speed of the encoder shaft.