Motor, Servo, and Encoder Cables: Connection Solutions for Dynamic Drive Systems
Modern drive technology in automation systems requires high-performance cables. Robust motor cables transmit power to the drive system, and the servo cables contain additional control pairs for transmitting temperature and brake controls. Meanwhile, disruption-resistant encoder cables transmit positional data, and hybrid servo cables combine energy, control, and data servo motor cables all into one, saving space and simplifying installation.
Motor, Servo, and Encoder Cable Applications
Cables used in drive technology must be able to perform in applications such as production automation, robotics, and conveyor technology. They must withstand constant movement in drag chains, endure millions of bending cycles or twists, and guarantee the undisturbed transmission of energy and control signals. Whether in the automotive industry, in packaging technology, tooling machines, or in one of many other industries, these screened speciality cables ensure precise automated movement sequences.

A Glance at What We Have to Offer
- TOPFLEX motor cables with robust EMC shielding
- TOPSERV servo cables for moving applications or dynamic processes, such as in drag chains
- TOPGEBER encoder cables for demanding continuous operations and reliable positional feedback
Discover our motor, servo and feedback cables
High Requirements for Flexible Industrial Cables
Cables used in drive systems must withstand extreme loads such as constant movement, rapid cycles, and fields of electromagnetic interference. This is why we developed flexibly constructed cables with multiple screening layers. This EMC-optimised construction (EMC: electromagnetic compatibility) protects signals from disruptions caused by frequency converters and guarantees the uninterrupted transmission of data.
We have outlined our solutions for moving applications in a brochure loaded with helpful insights.
Different Cable Designs Cover Every Application
Three base designs cover all requirements. Motor cables supply the drive system with power, servo cables transmit additional control signals, and encoder cables transmit positional data. Hybrid servo cables combine all of these functions in one and make installation significantly easier.
Pre-Assembled Solutions Adhere to All Standards
HELUKABEL pre-assembles installation-ready motor, servo, and encoder cables for all common manufacturer systems. Our plugs also adhere to many industry standards. This removes cumbersome installation steps on site.
FAQ
Motor cables are designed for use with frequency-controlled drive systems. Servo motors are controlled via servo controllers, which is why servo cables often contain additional control pairs for monitoring temperature and for controlling engine brakes.
In principle, control cables with 0.6/1 kV can be used as motor cables. However, due to the low capacitance of the insulation material, we do not recommend doing so.
Whether motor, servo, and encoder cables can be replaced by hybrid cables depends on the individual drive system. Some manufacturers already support hybrid solutions or operation using only two cables. Many systems, however, still require separate cables for power and signals. In these cases, hybrid cables cannot be readily used.