Microstepping drives like the PSMCC precisely control the amount of current in each phase at each step position as a means of electronically subdividing the steps even further. The drive offers a choice of 13 step resolutions, starting at 2000 steps per revolution. The highest setting divides each full step into 254 microsteps, providing 50,800 steps per revolution when using a 1.8° motor.

If in doubt, choose 20000 steps/rev. The motor will run smoother and more quietly at 20000 steps/rev than at lower resolutions like 2000. The microstep resolution of the driver is set using the programming software. The resolution appears at all times in the Steps/revolution panel on the left side of the main window. To change the resolution, click on the Change button and you'll see a dialog box with option buttons for each resolution. Click the one you want, then click on the OK button.

In addition to providing precise positioning and smooth motion, microstep drives can be used for motion conversion between different units. The 25,400 step/rev setting is provided as a means of converting motion from metric to imperial. (There are 25.4 mm per inch.) Other settings provide step angles that are decimal degrees (36,000 steps/rev makes the motor take 0.01° steps.)