Allen-Bradley 1336-L5 Encoder Feedback Module for Precise Motor Control

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

Enables High-Performance Closed-Loop Vector Control: The core advantage of the ALLEN-BRADLEY 1336-L5​ is its ability to enable true closed-loop flux vector control in a 1336 PLUS II drive. This control mode uses the precise shaft position feedback from the encoder to independently control the motor’s magnetic flux and torque-producing current. The result is superior performance: speed regulation accuracy of 0.001% or better of base speed, full rated motor torque available at zero speed for holding loads, and a dynamic speed response that is an order of magnitude faster than open-loop methods. This makes applications like center-wind tension control, synchronous conveyor lines, and precise positioning not just possible, but highly stable and repeatable.Improved System Performance and Diagnostics: With the encoder feedback provided by the ALLEN-BRADLEY 1336-L5, the drive gains valuable diagnostic and operational capabilities. It can detect speed loss or overspeed conditions more accurately than relying on calculated slip, allowing for more responsive fault protection. The board’s support for the encoder’s Index (Z) pulse provides a precise reference for homing sequences in simple positioning applications. The closed-loop system also inherently compensates for motor parameter variations and temperature effects, maintaining consistent performance over time and across different motors. This leads to improved process quality, reduced scrap, and higher machine throughput.Robust and Integrated Design: The ALLEN-BRADLEY 1336-L5​ is designed as a fully integrated option, not an external add-on box. This ensures reliable, high-speed communication between the encoder interface and the drive’s main processor, minimizing signal latency. The optical isolation on the encoder input channels protects the drive’s sensitive control electronics from electrical noise, voltage spikes, or ground loops that may be present in the encoder cable run, which is crucial for reliability in industrial environments. Installation is straightforward, involving slotting the board into the drive and connecting the encoder cable to the provided terminal block. This seamless integration means the enhanced functionality is managed entirely through the drive’s existing keypad and software, providing a unified user interface and parameter set.

Application Field

The ALLEN-BRADLEY 1336-L5​ encoder feedback board is deployed in industrial applications where the 1336 PLUS II drive is used and precise speed regulation or basic positioning is required. A primary application is in web handling and converting machinery, such as printing presses, coating lines, and slitters. Here, multiple drive sections must run at perfectly synchronized speeds to maintain tension and prevent web breakage or wrinkling. The closed-loop control enabled by the ALLEN-BRADLEY 1336-L5​ provides the exact speed matching and rapid response needed to correct for any speed deviations instantly.In material handling, the board is used for high-performance conveyor systems, especially where precise positioning of items is necessary, such as in sorting systems or automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS). It is also critical for applications like center-driven winders and unwinders in paper, film, and textile production, where maintaining constant tension as the roll diameter changes requires precise torque control that is only possible with direct speed feedback. The ALLEN-BRADLEY 1336-L5​ makes the drive suitable for these demanding tension control applications.Furthermore, the board finds use in machine tool auxiliaries, such as controlling the spindle on a lathe or mill where constant surface speed control is needed, or for controlling feed axes that require accurate speed. It is also applied in test stands where a load must be applied or a device must be rotated at a very precise and stable speed. In any scenario where a standard 1336 PLUS II drive is applied but the process suffers from speed droop under load, requires holding a load at zero speed, or needs better dynamic response, the addition of the ALLEN-BRADLEY 1336-L5​ encoder feedback board is the key upgrade to achieve the necessary level of control performance and process improvement.