Closed Loop Stepper Motors

AZ Series Stepper Motors with Mechanical Absolute Encoder - αSTEP

Closed Loop, Absolute Encoder Stepper Motors - AZ Series

The αSTEP AZ Series stepper motors offer high efficiency, low vibration and incorporates our newly developed Mechanical Absolute Encoder for absolute-type positioning without battery back-up or external sensors to buy. Closed loop performance without hunting or gain tuning. Available with a built-in controller or pulse input driver which substantially reduces heat generation from the motor through the use of high-efficiency technology. Requires αSTEP AZ Series Driver.

Battery-Free, Mechanical Absolute Encoder Stepper Motors
Closed Loop Performance, No Hunting or Gain Tuning
AC or DC Input Types
Parallel Shaft and Right Angle Geared Types for Higher Torque, Space Savings
Electromagnetic Brake Type Available
αSTEP AZ Series Stepper Motor Driver Required*

AR Series Closed Loop Stepper Motors - αSTEP

The αSTEP AR Series stepper motors offer high efficiency, low vibration, continuous operation with the security of closed loop performance without hunting or gain tuning. Available with a built-in controller or pulse input driver, the system substantially reduces heat generation from the stepper motor through the use of high-efficiency technology. The αSTEP AR Series also achieves up to 40% less power consumption, improved angle accuracy and is capable of driving large inertia loads. For use with αSTEP AR Series Drivers.

High-Efficiency, Continuous Operation Stepper Motors
Closed Loop Performance, No Hunting or Gain Tuning
AC or DC Input Types
Parallel Shaft and Right Angle Geared Types for Higher Torque, Space Savings
Electromagnetic Brake Types
αSTEP AR Series Stepper Motor Driver Required*

Closed Loop Stepper Motor Performance - αSTEP

These stepper motors use our αSTEP closed loop technology to maintain positioning operation even during abrupt load fluctuations and accelerations without hunting or gain tuning. The rotor position detection sensor monitors the rotation speed and amount. When an overload condition is detected, it will instantaneously regain control using the closed loop mode. When an overload condition continues it will output an alarm signal, thereby providing reliability.

Normally Operates in Open Loop Control for the Same Ease of Use as a Stepper Motor

Open Loop Control

High Response

By utilizing the high responsiveness of the stepper motor, moving a short distance for a short time is possible. The motors can execute commands without lag.

High Response

Holding the Stop Position without Hunting

During positioning, the motor stops with its own holding force without hunting. Because of this, it is ideal for applications where the low rigidity of the mechanism requires absence of vibration upon stopping.

Tuning-Free

Because it is normally operated with open loop control, positioning is still possible without gain adjustment even when the load fluctuates due to the use of a belt mechanism, cam or chain drive, etc.

Switches to Closed Loop Control during Overload for More Reliable Operation like a Servo Motor

Closed Loop Control

Continues Operation Even with Sudden Load Fluctuation and Sudden Acceleration

It operates synchronously with commands using open loop control during normal conditions. In an overload condition, it switches immediately to closed loop control to correct the position.

Closed Loop Control

Alarm Signal Output in Case of Abnormality

If an overload is applied continuously, an alarm signal is output. When the positioning is complete, and END signal is output. This ensures the same level of reliability as a servo motor.

No Hunting

Since these are stepper motors, there is no hunting problem. Therefore, when the motor stops, its position is completely stable and does not fluctuate. Closed Loop stepper motors are ideal for applications in which vibration would be a problem.

No Hunting

High Response

Like conventional stepper motors, closed loop stepper motors operate in synchronism with command pulses. This makes short stroke positioning possible in a short amount of time.

High Response

No Gain Tuning

Gain tuning for servo motors is critical, troublesome and time-consuming. Since these are stepper motors, there are no gain tuning requirements. Low rigidity applications, such as a belt and pulley system, are ideal for closed loop stepper motors.

No Gain Tuning

Compare Stepper Motors

Stepper Motor Comparison

Product Series	AZ Series Closed Loop, Absolute Stepper Motors	AR Series Closed Loop Stepper Motors
Product Series
Features	Closed Loop, Mechanical Absolute Encoder	Closed Loop, High-Efficiency
Feedback Type	Mechanical Absolute Encoder	Resolver
Basic Step Angle	0.36°	0.36°
Driver Required	AZ Series	AR Series
Driver Power Input	AC or DC	AC or DC
Frame Sizes	0.79 in. (20 mm) NEMA 8 1.10 in. (28 mm) NEMA 11 1.35 in. (35 mm) NEMA 14 1.65 in. (42 mm) NEMA 17 2.36 in. (60 mm) NEMA 24 3.35/3.54 in. (85/90 mm) NEMA 34	1.10 in. (28 mm) NEMA 11 1.65 in. (42 mm) NEMA 17 2.36 in. (60 mm) NEMA 24 3.35/3.54 in. (85/90 mm) NEMA 34
Available Options	Geared Type Electromagnetic Brake	Geared Type Electromagnetic Brake
Max. Holding Torque	2.8 oz-in up to 752 lb-in	42 oz-in up to 442 lb-in
Max. Holding Torque	0.02 N·m up to 85 N·m	0.3 N·m up to 50 N·m
Learn More	AZ Series Closed Loop, Absolute Stepper Motors	AR Series Closed Loop Stepper Motors