Encoder strategies/thoughts and musings For PID or maybe RT

[TroyO]

In the manual it states:

- An incremental encoder with A and B channels has to be connected and measure the spindle speed
and the encoder resolution has to be configured.
(Note: Single Index channel feedback is currently not supported, only an incremental encoder can
be used.)

I'm not sure why that is, but it has me thinking about the encoders and such on my machine. I don't particularly need rigid tapping, but the PID with its active spindle speed monitoring would be nice. What if I "fake" the B signal by slightly delaying a single output pulse and feeding it to the B channel. It obviously won't give useful directional info but the basic speed calc should be valid?

Physically, I already have a setup in place for a single input pulse, and most encoders I've seen have either a small disc, or a driven shaft that would make using the drawbar cumbersome. I have holes in the rim of my drive pulley and a simple slot photosensor on it now. (16 holes I think... if it's relevant.)

Could I alternately use two single output indices offset by some reasonable adjustment to "Kinda-sorta 90 degree" offset? How minute would that adjustment have to be?

Anyway... I appreciate any input, ideas or suggestions. Or dirty jokes (Within guideline limits, LOL), those are always fun too. ;-P

[TroyO]

Ohh, in addition, if anyone has a suggestion for a different type or model of incremental that could work please let me know that too.