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Stepper Motor Calculator

Steps/rev, resolution, frequency, and max RPM for stepper motors

Steps/Rev

200

Resolution

1.8°

Freq

667 Hz

Steps per Revolution

200

1.8\u00B0 per step

Step Freq

667 Hz

Max RPM

2

Power

18 W

Motor Performance

Full Steps/Rev200
Torque @ Speed0 Nm
Driver Current1.5 A

Example Calculations

1NEMA 17 at 1/16 microstepping

Inputs

Step Angle1.8°
Microstep16x

Result

Steps/Rev3,200
Resolution0.1125° per step

360/1.8 = 200 full steps × 16 = 3,200 steps/rev. Resolution = 360/3,200 = 0.1125°.

2200 RPM, 200 steps/rev

Inputs

RPM200
Steps/Rev200

Result

Step Frequency667 Hz

200 × 200 / 60 = 667 pulses per second.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

How do I calculate steps per revolution with microstepping?

Multiply full steps per revolution by the microstep divisor. Full steps = 360 / step_angle. A 1.8° motor has 200 full steps; at 1/16 microstepping that becomes 3,200 steps per revolution.

  • 1.8° motor = 200 full steps/rev
  • 0.9° motor = 400 full steps/rev
  • 200 × 16 microsteps = 3,200 steps/rev
  • 200 × 32 microsteps = 6,400 steps/rev
Microstep1.8° Motor0.9° MotorResolution
Full (1x)2004001.8° / 0.9°
1/48001,6000.45° / 0.225°
1/163,2006,4000.1125° / 0.056°
1/326,40012,8000.056° / 0.028°
Q

What limits the maximum RPM of a stepper motor?

Back-EMF and driver voltage limit max RPM. As speed increases, back-EMF opposes the supply voltage, reducing current and torque. Higher voltage drivers allow higher max RPM.

  • 12V driver: typically 300–600 RPM max
  • 24V driver: typically 600–1,200 RPM max
  • 48V driver: 1,200–2,000+ RPM possible
  • Microstepping reduces effective max RPM
Q

Does microstepping reduce torque?

Yes. At higher microstepping, each step delivers less holding torque. Full stepping provides 100% torque; 1/16 microstepping typically provides about 10–20% of holding torque per microstep.

  • Full step: 100% holding torque
  • Half step: ~70% torque per step
  • 1/8 step: ~38% torque per step
  • 1/16 step: ~20% torque per step
Q

How do I choose the right step angle?

Most 3D printers and CNC machines use 1.8° (200 steps/rev). Precision applications like astronomical trackers may use 0.9° (400 steps/rev). Higher resolution increases smoothness but reduces max speed.

  • 1.8°: most common, good balance
  • 0.9°: double resolution, lower max speed
  • 3.6°: older/cheaper motors
  • Combine with microstepping for finer control

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This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.

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