2-Phase and 5-Phase Step Motor Comparison

You've narrowed your search for a motion control solution down to a step motor. Now it's time to decide, 2-phase or 5-phase? ORIENTAL MOTOR manufactures both 2-phase and 5-phase step motors and drivers. Our experience in both technologies gives us a unique perspective. ORIENTAL MOTOR has put together a quick feature-by-feature comparison to clear up the confusion and myths of the 2-phase versus 5-phase debate. The guide covers the basic differences between both technologies in the key areas of step motor performance: resolution, vibration, torque, accuracy and synchronism. ORIENTAL MOTOR's experienced Technical Support staff are also available for more in-depth explanations of both technologies.

2-phase, 5-phase, what's the difference?

There are two key differences between 2-phase and 5-phase motors. The first is mechanical. A step motor consists of basically two parts, a stator and a rotor. The rotor in turn is made up of three components; rotor cup 1, rotor cup 2 and a permanent magnet. In a 2-phase motor the stator is made up of 8 magnetic poles with small teeth, while the 5-phase motor stator is made up of 10 magnetic poles. The poles in the stator are each provided a winding.

The second difference between 2-phase and 5-phase is the number of phases. A 2-phase motor has two phases, an "A" phase and a "B" phase, while a 5-phase motor has five phases. Essentially, the number of phases refers to the different combinations of poles that are energized in sequence to attract the rotor.

2-Phase and 5-Phase Head-to-Head: