Linear Stepper Motors vs Servo Actuators: Which One to Choose?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjX_eknkr2M
Stepper motor linear actuator vs. servo linear actuator — why direct-drive linear motors perform better.
In this video, we explain why Jenny Science does not use stepper motor technology in any of its linear actuators—and why all Jenny Science systems are based on direct-drive servo linear motors instead.
If you work in automation, robotics, test engineering, or precision machinery, this distinction is critical. It directly impacts speed, accuracy, lifetime, and overall machine reliability.
Stepper Motor Linear Actuators — strengths and limitations:
A stepper motor linear actuator converts discrete motor steps into linear motion, typically using a spindle or mechanical transmission.
They are commonly used for:
• Low-cost positioning
• Light loads
• Short travel distances
• Simple open-loop motion
However, stepper-based solutions—including mini stepper motor linear actuators—reach clear limits in demanding applications:
• Torque drops significantly at higher speeds
• No true closed-loop control without additional feedback hardware
• Mechanical wear, backlash, and friction
• Limited dynamics and acceleration
• Thermal buildup during continuous operation
For modern automation, these factors quickly become performance bottlenecks.
Servo Linear Actuators and Direct-Drive Technology:
A servo linear actuator operates in full closed loop, continuously monitoring position and motion.
A linear servo motor generates motion directly—without spindle, gearbox, or belt.
Jenny Science exclusively uses direct-drive architectures such as:
• ELAX® linear motor slides
• LINAX® linear motor axes
• This form of servo linear motion delivers:
• High dynamics and acceleration (up to 3 m/s)
• Repeatability down to ±1…5 µm
• No mechanical backlash or wear
• Long lifetime with minimal maintenance
• Stable performance over millions of cycles
With XENAX® servo controllers, these systems provide precise servo motor control and can integrate force measurement via Forceteq® when required.
Where Direct-Drive Outperforms Stepper Systems:
Compared to any servo motor linear actuator based on mechanical transmission, direct-drive systems offer:
• Higher stiffness
• Better thermal stability
• Superior repeatability
• Higher speed and acceleration
• Consistent cycle-to-cycle accuracy
This makes them ideal for assembly automation, material testing, pick-and-place systems, semiconductor handling, and laboratory automation.
Conclusion:
Jenny Science does not use stepper technology for one simple reason:
Direct-drive servo linear motors deliver more precision, more speed, more lifetime, and more reliability.
By eliminating mechanical transmissions entirely, direct-drive systems achieve motion quality that stepper solutions cannot match.
If you want to learn more about direct-drive linear motor axes, force-controlled motion, or advanced servo motor control, explore our other videos.
Thanks for watching.
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🎥 More Jenny Science videos:
• Force Measurement with Forceteq® Pro → https://youtu.be/JwsLVII3Stw
• LINAX® Lxu F60S – Industrial Automation Demo → https://youtu.be/Qu3zm8G6XR4
• LINAX® Lxs F60S – Compact Precision Drive → https://youtu.be/SyFWXBQiTzA
• How To Update Firmware & WebMotion on XENAX® Controller → https://youtu.be/bc6KesSkGfg
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© Jenny Science AG – Simplify Motion
via Jenny Science AG https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjWsIm0BVRObYMt9nmyn6ww
February 14, 2026 at 02:00PM
