Next to the control panel of most CNC machines there is a small wheel the operator can turn by hand. A gentle turn moves the tool holder or worktable — this small device is the electronic handwheel (manual pulse generator, MPG).
1. What Does an Electronic Handwheel Do?
An electronic handwheel is essentially a manual pulse-generating device. As the operator turns the wheel, an internal encoder converts the rotation angle into pulse signals; the CNC system receives the pulses and drives the servo motor to move the corresponding distance. This enables precise manual tool setting, reference finding and fine feed adjustment. It solves the problem of "jog buttons are too coarse and cranking handles is tiring" and is standard equipment on machining centers, CNC lathes and mills.
2. Key Parameters
Focus on these when selecting:
- Multiplier (X1/X10/X100): one revolution of the wheel equals 1, 10 or 100 pulses. A higher multiplier moves the machine more per turn — good for rough adjustment; a lower one suits fine adjustment.
- Pulses per revolution: commonly 100 P/R, 25 P/R, etc. Together with the multiplier it determines the travel per revolution.
- Axis select switch: on multi-axis machines a rotary switch selects the axis to control (X/Y/Z, etc.).
- Enable switch (hold-to-run): some models have an enable switch so the wheel only works while held, preventing accidental operation.
- Output signal & wiring: A/B phase pulses (differential optional), typically aviation plug or direct cable — must match the CNC interface.
3. Selection Advice
- Confirm the CNC system first: different systems (FANUC, Siemens, KND, etc.) define the handwheel interface differently. Always provide the system model and handwheel interface drawing before purchasing.
- Prioritize durability: workshops are full of oil and dust — choose products with metal housings and well-sealed encoders.
- Customization is available: pulses, shaft diameter, cable type and multiplier positions can all be customized — don't be limited to "standard" models.
KOSEND offers DYH series electronic handwheels (DYH-S/P/H/D, DYD) and SLW series metal-housing handwheels (φ60/φ80mm, KND customization, 100 pulses, 4-year warranty), with system-based wiring and LOGO customization supported. For selection help, call 400-100-6802 or visit www.kosend.com to submit your machine parameters — we'll help confirm the right model.