quadrature-encoder-course/lessons/02-using-encoder-feedback/01-measuring-wheel-speed/measuring-wheel-speed.md

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2026-04-07 19:47:37 -04:00
---
title: Measuring Wheel Speed
summary: Convert encoder counts over time into rotational speed for a drive wheel.
chapter: Using Encoder Feedback
order: 1
tags:
- speed
- odometry
- robotics
estimated_minutes: 9
---
# Measuring Wheel Speed
Position counts become useful control signals once you add time.
To estimate wheel speed:
1. sample the encoder count at a fixed interval
2. subtract the previous count from the current count
3. divide by the sample period
4. convert counts per second into revolutions per second or wheel surface speed
## Why this matters
Speed feedback is the bridge between open-loop motor commands and predictable robot motion.
If two drive motors get the same PWM value but spin at different speeds, your robot will drift. Encoder-based speed estimation lets you detect and correct that mismatch.
## Checkpoint
Plot wheel speed over time while ramping the motor command up and down.