A pulse encoder having a movement detecting unit (1) that detects the movement of an object whose position is to be detected and produces a signal having data related to the movement, and a clock generator (3) that produces clock pulses. The data related to the movement is processed while maintaining synchronism with the clock pulses. Provision is further made of an abnormal clock detecting unit (4) which inputs clock pulses as well as portions having data that indicates the presence or absence of movement of the object whose position should at least be detected among the signals having data related to the movement. When the movement is detected relying upon portions having data that indicates the presence or absence of movement despite the interruption of the clock pulse, the abnormal clock detecting unit (4) produces an abnormal clock signal.