The SPARK MAX does not need to be configured to a specific mode to accept input from an absolute encoder as long as the encoder is connected to the SPARK MAX Data Port.
Encoder Output Voltage Level
5.0V
Encoder Type Supported
Duty Cycle or PWM
Absolute encoder input is supported by SPARK MAX Firmware Version 1.6.0 and newer,
Connecting an absolute encoder that is not a Through Bore Encoder will likely require a custom wiring harness or SPARK MAX Data Port Breakout Board to connect the necessary encoder power, ground, and signals to the SPARK MAX Data Port. When using an Absolute Encoder use the following pinout information for the Data Port:
Connector Pin
Pin Type
Pin Function
1
Power
+3.3V
2
Power
+5V
3
Analog
Analog Input
4
Digital
Forward Limit Switch Input
5
Digital
Encoder B
6
Digital
Absolute/PWM Input
7
Digital
Encoder A
8
Digital
Reverse Limit Switch Input
9
Digital
Encoder C / Index
10
Ground
Ground