Stepper Motor
Stepper motors are a type of DC motor that divides a full rotation into a number of equal steps. They are widely used in applications requiring precise control of position and speed.
Pros
- Cost-effective: Generally cheaper than other motor types.
- Position holding: Can hold their position when not powered, making them suitable for applications requiring precise positioning.
- Easy to control: Simple control mechanisms, often using open-loop systems.
Cons
- Low efficiency: Not as efficient as other motor types, especially at high speeds.
- Limited speed: Typically operate at lower speeds compared to other motors.
- Missteps at high speeds: Can lose steps if overloaded or driven too fast, leading to position errors.
Use Cases
- 3D printers: Commonly used for precise movement of print heads and build platforms.
- CNC machines: Used for controlling the movement of cutting tools with high precision.