A stepper motor converts an electrical pulse into an angular motion. It is useful for applications requiring open loop position control.

There are three categories of stepper motors:

The variable reluctance motor: With the same electrical characteristics, this type of motor is less powerful but faster than a permanent magnet motor.

The permanent magnet motor: it is a low cost, low resolution motor

average (up to 100 steps/revolution).

The hybrid motor:  this type of motor combines the two previous types of technology but is more

expensive. It has the advantage of better torque and higher speed. It has a resolution of 100 to 400 steps/revolution.

Permanent magnet and hybrid motors are the most commonly used motors because they have certain advantages:

They are accurate

They are inexpensive

They are sturdy

Simple construction

The torque is high at start-up and at low speeds

However, they also have some disadvantages:

The speed and torque are relatively low

Torque decreases sharply as speed increases

They generate vibrations that can create resonance problems

There is a risk of overheating

When selecting a stepper motor, it is important to take into account:

Torque and load

The number of steps

The dimensions of the motor (weight, mounting flanges, etc.).

Cost