Abstract: Disclosed is an optical position encoder system for use with an electric motor that comprises at least one sinusoidal gradient having a dark to light pattern on at least one surface thereof and a control board affixed to the motor to at least in part control the motor's movement. The control board comprises a light source and at least two light sensors positioned on the control board. The light source and at least two light sensors are spaced apart from each other. The light source directs light onto the at least one sinusoidal gradient. The at least two light sensors receive reflected light from the at least one sinusoidal gradient and provide at least two output signals. At least one microprocessor connected to the motor receives the at least two output signals and uses those signals to determine at least in part the motor's movement, position, or a combination thereof.