Calculator Inputs
Tip
If motion feels rough, try lower RPM, a higher microstep setting, or a faster acceleration ramp in your controller.
Formula Used
Full steps per revolution: Steps_full = 360 / StepAngle
Microsteps per revolution: Steps_µ = Steps_full × Microsteps
Motor RPM from pulse frequency: RPM_motor = (Freq / Steps_µ) × 60
Output RPM with gearing: RPM_out = RPM_motor / GearRatio
Pulse frequency for a target output RPM: Freq = (RPM_out × GearRatio × Steps_µ) / 60
Linear speed from pitch: mm/min = RPM_out × Pitch and mm/s = (mm/min) / 60
How to Use This Calculator
- Select a mode based on what you know: frequency, RPM, or linear speed.
- Enter step angle and microstepping used in your driver settings.
- Add a gear ratio if a gearbox or belt reduction is present.
- Enable linear travel speed and enter pitch for lead screws or pulleys.
- Press Submit to see RPM, frequency, and optional travel speed.
- Use the CSV/PDF buttons to export the computed results.
Example Data Table
| Step angle | Microsteps | Pulse freq | Gear ratio | Lead pitch | Motor RPM | Output RPM | Linear speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8° | 16 | 5000 Hz | 1 | 5 mm/rev | 1,041.667 | 1,041.667 | 86.806 mm/s |
| 0.9° | 32 | 12000 Hz | 2 | 8 mm/rev | 1,125.000 | 562.500 | 75.000 mm/s |
| 1.8° | 8 | 2000 Hz | 3 | 10 mm/rev | 300.000 | 100.000 | 16.667 mm/s |
Examples assume ideal pulses and steady load.
FAQs
1) Does microstepping increase top speed?
It increases pulses needed per revolution, so controller frequency limits may lower top RPM. It can improve smoothness, but torque per microstep is smaller at high speeds.
2) Why is real speed lower than calculated?
Missed steps, acceleration limits, supply voltage, driver current, and load inertia reduce achievable speed. The math assumes perfect tracking and no mechanical losses.
3) What gear ratio should I enter?
Use motor revolutions per output revolution. For a 2:1 reduction, enter 2. This makes output RPM half of motor RPM.
4) How do I compute pitch for a pulley?
Use pulley circumference as “pitch per revolution.” Circumference equals π × diameter. Convert to millimeters if you want mm-based travel speed.
5) Is pulse frequency the same as step rate?
Yes, for step/dir drivers it is the rate of step pulses you send. Each pulse typically advances one microstep, depending on your driver setting.
6) What step angle should I use for 200-step motors?
A 200-step motor is usually 1.8° per full step. A 400-step motor is usually 0.9° per full step.
7) How does voltage affect speed?
Higher supply voltage can help current rise faster in the windings, improving torque at higher RPM. Always stay within driver and motor ratings.
8) Can I use this for closed-loop steppers?
Yes for commanded speed calculations. Closed-loop feedback improves tracking under load, but controller limits and mechanics still set the maximum practical speed.