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Question Codes for brushless motors and stepper motors

Discussion in 'DIY Motion Simulator Projects' started by motiondynamics, Sep 19, 2025 at 11:02.

  1. motiondynamics

    motiondynamics Member Gold Contributor

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    Hi everyone. Up until now, I've been using DC motors and potentiometers for position control, using the "SMC3 V1.0" code.

    But now I'd like to use stepper or brushless motors. I think I'll use stepper motors... What do you recommend?

    Another question: which code should I use for brushless motors and which code should I use for stepper motors?

    For stepper motors, do I also need to use the potentiometer for position control, or is it not necessary?

    I look forward to your replies, thanks.
  2. noorbeast

    noorbeast VR Tassie Devil Staff Member Moderator Race Director

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    Steppers are not impossible but are uncommon when you have so many relatively cost effective tried and tested alternatives such as servos.

    Steppers can have a lot of vibration, noise, and can lose torque on higher speeds, so actuator speed may be limited.

    But if you are interested in the Stepper path check out @Lebois thread, though even he eventually switched over to using servos: https://www.xsimulator.net/community/threads/srt100-stepper-motor-actuators.16261/
  3. Joe Cortexian

    Joe Cortexian Active Member Gold Contributor

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    AC servos are like brushless motors. Control is more like steppers.

    They are price competitive now. There is DIY software on the forum. This is assuming we are talking motors > 400w.