Top 25 Stepper Motor Manufacturers in Japan

what are stepper motors

A stepper motor is a type of brushless, synchronous electric motor that moves in precise, discrete steps. Unlike conventional electric motors that spin continuously when powered, stepper motors rotate in fixed angular increments, making them ideal for applications where precise position control is required.

Key Components of Stepper Motors

Stepper motors are designed to deliver precise, controlled motion through a combination of mechanical and electrical components. Each component plays a critical role in ensuring the motor functions accurately and efficiently. Below are the essential key components of a typical stepper motor:

1. Rotor

The rotor is the rotating part of the motor. It is typically made of either:

• Permanent magnets (in Permanent Magnet or Hybrid Stepper Motors), or

• Soft iron with toothed structure (in Variable Reluctance Motors).

The rotor moves in discrete steps as it aligns with the changing magnetic fields generated by the stator coils. Its design and magnet configuration directly affect the step angle and torque characteristics of the motor.

2. Stator

The stator is the stationary outer section of the motor and contains a series of electromagnetic coils (windings). These coils are energized in a specific sequence to create magnetic fields that attract and move the rotor.

• The stator typically has multiple poles or teeth arranged in precise intervals.

• The number of stator poles affects the resolution and step angle of the motor.

3. Coils / Windings

These are copper wire windings wrapped around the stator teeth. When current flows through the coils, they produce magnetic fields. These fields are what pull the rotor into alignment step by step.

Stepper motors often have two-phase (bipolar) or four-phase (unipolar) windings, depending on the motor design and driver compatibility.

4. Shaft

The shaft is the central axle of the rotor that extends out of the motor housing. It is the part that transfers the rotational motion to the mechanical load such as gears, pulleys, or actuators. The shaft is often equipped with:

• Bearings for smooth rotation

• Key slots or flats for secure coupling

5. Bearings

Precision bearings support the motor shaft at both ends, allowing smooth and quiet rotation while minimizing friction. High-quality bearings contribute to the longevity and stability of the motor.

6. Housing / Frame

The outer frame or housing of the motor holds all the internal components together. It also provides a mounting interface and serves as a protective casing. The housing is usually made of aluminum or steel, and it may be vented or sealed, depending on the motor's intended application.

7. Magnet (in PM and Hybrid Motors)

In Permanent Magnet (PM) and Hybrid Stepper motors, the rotor includes one or more permanent magnets. These magnets interact with the magnetic field from the stator windings to produce motion. The quality and orientation of the magnet determine:

• Torque output

• Step precision

• Magnetic locking (holding torque)

8. Detent Mechanism (Optional)

Some stepper motors include a detent torque mechanism, which provides a small amount of holding torque even when the motor is not energized. This is helpful for maintaining position in low-power applications.

9. Encoder (in Closed-Loop Stepper Motors)

Though not present in basic open-loop stepper motors, some models include a rotary encoder for feedback. Encoders allow for closed-loop operation, enabling the system to detect:

• Actual rotor position

• Missed steps

• Speed and direction changes

This feedback helps improve accuracy and reliability in demanding applications.

10. Connector or Leads

Stepper motors have either a terminal block, connector plug, or wire leads coming out of the housing. These are used to connect the motor to the driver or controller, which supplies power and pulse signals.

Summary of Key Components

Component	Function
Rotor	Rotates in response to magnetic fields
Stator	Contains coils that generate the magnetic fields
Windings	Energized coils that create magnetic poles
Shaft	Transfers rotation to mechanical systems
Bearings	Allow smooth shaft rotation
Housing	Protects components and provides mounting support
Magnets	Provide torque and interact with electromagnetic fields
Detent Mechanism	Provides passive holding torque (optional)
Encoder	Provides position feedback in closed-loop systems (optional)
Connectors/Leads	Interface for electrical connections to driver or controller

These components work together to ensure precise, step-by-step motion control, making stepper motors an essential solution for robotics, CNC, automation, 3D printing, and many other precision-driven industries.

How Stepper Motors Work

A stepper motor operates by converting electrical pulses into discrete mechanical movements. Unlike standard electric motors that spin continuously when power is applied, stepper motors move in exact steps, which makes them perfect for applications that require precise position, speed, and direction control.

Basic Operating Principle

Stepper motors work based on electromagnetic interaction between the stator (the stationary outer part) and the rotor (the rotating inner part). When electrical current flows through the motor's windings, it creates magnetic fields. These fields attract the rotor, causing it to move.

The motor driver sends a sequence of electrical pulses, energizing the stator windings in a specific order. Each pulse moves the rotor by one step angle, such as 1.8° or 0.9°. Repeated pulses create continuous rotation, but always in precise, incremental steps.

Step-by-Step Rotation

Each full rotation of the rotor is divided into a set number of steps. For example:

• A 1.8° stepper motor makes 200 steps per revolution (360° ÷ 1.8° = 200).

• A 0.9° stepper motor makes 400 steps per revolution.

This fine granularity allows for high-resolution control without feedback sensors.

Stepping Modes

Stepper motors can operate in different stepping modes:

Full Step

• The motor moves one full step per pulse.

• Maximum torque, fewer steps per revolution.

Half Step

• Alternates between energizing one and two phases.

• Doubles the resolution and smooths motion.

Microstepping

• Divides each step into smaller increments using variable current levels.

• Offers ultra-smooth motion and high positional accuracy.

Motor Control

Stepper motors are driven by stepper motor drivers or controllers, which send timed voltage signals (pulses) to the motor coils. These controllers determine:

• Step frequency (controls speed)

• Step direction (clockwise or counterclockwise)

• Step mode (full, half, micro)

Advanced controllers may also handle acceleration and deceleration curves for smoother motion.

Open-Loop System

One of the most unique features of stepper motors is that they operate in an open-loop system. This means they do not require position feedback like servos do. As long as the motor is not overloaded or skipping steps, it precisely follows the input command.

Holding Torque

When energized, a stepper motor can hold its position firmly without movement. This is due to magnetic locking between the stator and rotor. Holding torque is an advantage in applications where maintaining a set position without drift is critical.

Advantages of Stepper Motor Operation

• Precise motion control without feedback

• Repeatable movement for consistent tasks

• Simple control via digital pulses

• Reliable performance for long-duration use

Conclusion

Stepper motors work by receiving electrical pulses and converting them into fixed step movements. Their ability to move precisely and hold position makes them ideal for robotics, 3D printers, CNC machines, automation systems, and camera controls. With advancements in microstepping and closed-loop systems, stepper motors continue to be a preferred solution for accurate, repeatable motion.

Types of Stepper Motors

Stepper motors come in several types, each designed for specific performance characteristics and applications. While all stepper motors share the ability to move in discrete steps, their internal construction and operating principles can differ. Below are the main types of stepper motors, explained in detail.

1. Permanent Magnet (PM) Stepper Motors

Overview:

Permanent Magnet (PM) stepper motors use a permanent magnet rotor and a stator with wound electromagnets. When current flows through the stator windings, magnetic fields interact with the rotor's permanent magnets to produce motion.

Features:

• Step angles typically range from 7.5° to 15°

• Low cost and simple design

• Moderate torque at low speeds

Applications:

• Toys and consumer electronics

• Low-precision printers

• Simple automation systems

2. Variable Reluctance (VR) Stepper Motors

Overview:

Variable Reluctance stepper motors have a soft iron rotor with no magnets. The rotor has multiple teeth, and it aligns itself with the energized stator poles to minimize magnetic reluctance (resistance to magnetic flow).

Features:

• Step angles as small as 1.8° or less

• High stepping rate

• Simple and rugged design

• Lower torque than PM or hybrid types

Applications:

• Industrial automation (older systems)

• Test and measurement equipment

• Educational and experimental setups

3. Hybrid Stepper Motors

Overview:

Hybrid stepper motors combine the benefits of PM and VR motors. They use a permanent magnet rotor with fine teeth and a highly toothed stator, allowing for high precision and better torque characteristics.

Features:

• Typical step angles: 1.8°, 0.9°, or even smaller with microstepping

• High torque-to-inertia ratio

• Very accurate and efficient

• Supports microstepping for smoother motion

Applications:

• 3D printers

• CNC machinery

• Robotics

• Medical devices

• Surveillance equipment

4. Unipolar Stepper Motors

Overview:

A unipolar stepper motor has center-tapped coils, allowing current to flow in one direction through each winding half. This simplifies the driver design since current does not need to be reversed.

Features:

• Easier to control

• Lower torque than bipolar motors

• Requires six or five wire connections

Applications:

• DIY electronics (Arduino, Raspberry Pi projects)

• Office automation

• Low-power equipment

5. Bipolar Stepper Motors

Overview:

Bipolar motors have one winding per phase, and current must be reversed to change polarity. This requires an H-bridge driver circuit, but it delivers more torque from the same size motor.

Features:

• Higher torque output

• Requires more complex driver circuitry

• Only four wires needed

Applications:

• Industrial machines

• 3D printers and CNC routers

• Automated laboratory instruments

6. Closed-Loop Stepper Motors

Overview:

Closed-loop stepper motors include an encoder or feedback system to monitor rotor position in real-time. This allows the controller to correct for missed steps, combine the best features of stepper and servo motors, and improve efficiency.

Features:

• Real-time feedback and correction

• Improved accuracy and reliability

• Reduced heat generation

• Higher speeds with stable torque

Applications:

• High-performance robotics

• Precision medical equipment

• Automation systems with variable loads

7. Linear Stepper Motors

Overview:

Instead of producing rotary motion, linear stepper motors convert stepper operation into linear movement. They can be designed using a leadscrew and nut mechanism or magnetic linear travel.

Features:

• Direct linear actuation

• Precise movement along one axis

• Easy integration with sliders or stages

Applications:

• 3D printer Z-axis

• Pick-and-place machines

• Lab automation systems

Comparison Table

Stepper Motor Type	Key Features	Best For
PM Stepper Motor	Simple, low cost, lower precision	Entry-level electronics, toys
VR Stepper Motor	No magnets, high step rate, low torque	Older industrial uses, educational projects
Hybrid Stepper Motor	High precision, high torque, microstepping capable	CNC, 3D printers, robotics
Unipolar Stepper Motor	Easy control, lower torque	Hobby projects, office equipment
Bipolar Stepper Motor	High torque, more complex driving	Industrial and high-performance applications
Closed-Loop Stepper Motor	Feedback, no missed steps, high speed/torque balance	Precision automation, medical, robotics
Linear Stepper Motor	Direct linear motion, compact	Lab equipment, vertical motion systems

Conclusion

The choice of stepper motor depends heavily on your application's precision, torque, speed, and control requirements. From the cost-effective Permanent Magnet types to high-end Closed-Loop Hybrid motors, the variety allows engineers to find the ideal solution for motion control tasks. Understanding each type helps ensure the best fit for your design needs and performance expectations.

Key Features of Stepper Motors

Stepper motors are widely used in applications that demand precise, repeatable, and controlled motion. Their unique design enables them to move in discrete steps, making them ideal for automation, robotics, and precision instruments. Below are the key features that define the performance and utility of stepper motors:

1. Precise Positioning

One of the most significant advantages of stepper motors is their ability to move in fixed step angles, such as 1.8°, 0.9°, or even finer with microstepping. Each pulse sent to the motor corresponds to a specific angle of movement, allowing for accurate and repeatable positioning without the need for external feedback systems.

2. Open-Loop Control

Stepper motors operate in an open-loop system, meaning they do not require position sensors to monitor movement. The motor follows the input pulses from the controller or driver, assuming the load conditions are within design limits. This simplifies control and reduces cost while maintaining acceptable accuracy in most cases.

3. Excellent Repeatability

Because stepper motors move in defined increments, they can return to exact positions reliably, provided there are no missed steps. This repeatability is crucial for tasks like CNC machining, 3D printing, or camera control, where consistent motion paths are essential.

4. Holding Torque

When powered but not moving, stepper motors can produce holding torque, which allows them to maintain a fixed position without movement. This feature is beneficial in applications that require components to stay in place under load, even when motion stops.

5. High Torque at Low Speeds

Stepper motors deliver maximum torque at low speeds, unlike other motor types that need high RPMs to generate full torque. This makes them perfect for applications such as linear actuators, robotic arms, and rotary tables, where speed isn't as important as torque.

6. Simple and Cost-Effective Design

The controller and drive electronics required for stepper motors are generally simpler and less expensive than those needed for servo motors. This makes them an attractive choice for budget-conscious projects or systems where basic accuracy is sufficient.

7. Multiple Step Modes

Stepper motors can operate in different stepping modes to suit application needs:

• Full Step: One full step per pulse (standard)

• Half Step: Combines full and partial steps for smoother motion

• Microstepping: Divides each step into smaller parts for high-resolution, smoother operation

These modes offer flexibility in balancing speed, torque, and precision.

8. Reversibility

Stepper motors can instantly reverse direction by changing the pulse sequence. This allows for bidirectional motion without complex mechanical switches or changes to the power supply.

9. Low Maintenance

Stepper motors are brushless and have fewer wear-prone parts, which reduces maintenance requirements. This leads to longer operational life and greater reliability, especially in continuous or repetitive applications.

10. Compatibility with Digital Systems

Stepper motors are inherently digital in nature—they move one step per pulse. This makes them ideal for integration with microcontrollers, PLCs, and embedded systems, making system control more straightforward and responsive.

11. Smooth Motion with Microstepping

Using microstepping drivers, stepper motors can achieve very smooth and silent motion, reducing mechanical vibration and noise. This is especially useful in applications like medical equipment, office automation, and laboratory instruments where silence is important.

12. Quick Start and Stop Response

Stepper motors can accelerate and decelerate quickly, responding to command changes with precision. This feature is useful in applications requiring fast, accurate positioning without delay.

Summary of Key Features

Feature	Benefit
Precise Positioning	Accurate step-by-step movement
Open-Loop Control	No need for encoders or feedback systems
High Repeatability	Consistent movement for repeated tasks
Holding Torque	Can maintain position when stationary
High Low-Speed Torque	Ideal for low-RPM applications
Simple Control System	Easy integration with microcontrollers and digital circuits
Multiple Step Modes	Customizable resolution and smoothness
Instant Direction Reversal	Easy bidirectional control
Low Maintenance	Long operational life due to lack of brushes
Digital Compatibility	Seamless integration with step pulse controllers
Quiet Operation	Especially when microstepping is used
Fast Dynamic Response	Quick starting, stopping, and reversing capabilities

Conclusion

Stepper motors offer a versatile, precise, and cost-effective solution for motion control in a wide range of applications. Their ability to move in well-defined steps, maintain position without drift, and operate without feedback sensors makes them a preferred choice for engineers and system designers seeking accurate, repeatable motion control.

Top 25 Stepper Motor Manufacturers in Japan

Japan has long been a global leader in precision engineering and motor control technologies. Stepper motors, vital components in robotics, automation, CNC machinery, and medical devices, are widely developed and manufactured across Japan by world-class companies known for quality, innovation, and reliability. Below is a comprehensive guide to the top 25 stepper motor manufacturers  in Japan, including detailed company profiles, main product highlights, and competitive advantages.

1. Oriental Motor Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Established in 1885, Oriental Motor is one of the most recognized names in the global stepper motor manufacturer, with a strong emphasis on precision motion control and automation solutions.

Main Products

• Hybrid stepper motors (2-phase, 5-phase)

• Closed-loop stepper systems (AlphaStep series)

• Gearhead stepper motors

• Integrated motor drivers

Advantages

• Exceptional product reliability

• Energy-efficient motors with high torque

• Global support and distribution

• Industry-standard customization

2. MinebeaMitsumi Inc.

Company Profile

MinebeaMitsumi is a multinational stepper motor manufacturer in high-precision components, combining Japanese engineering with global manufacturing capabilities.

Main Products

• PM and hybrid stepper motors

• Linear stepper actuators

• Custom miniature stepper motors

Advantages

• Extremely compact and precise

• Broad usage in medical and consumer electronics

• Mass production at low cost with consistent quality

3. Shinano Kenshi Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Founded in 1918, Shinano Kenshi is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and has grown into a powerhouse in motion control, particularly in motor development for printers, ATMs, and medical equipment.

Main Products

• Hybrid stepper motors

• Custom stepper motor assemblies

• Integrated driver stepper units

Advantages

• High-torque, low-vibration motors

• Tailored OEM solutions

• Global manufacturing support

4. Nidec Corporation

Company Profile

Nidec is a global stepper motor manufacturer known for electric motors of all kinds, Nidec has a solid footprint in precision stepper motors.

Main Products

• Miniature stepper motors

• Geared stepper motors

• Automotive-grade steppers

Advantages

• High-efficiency, low-noise motors

• Extensive R&D investment

• Quality assurance in critical sectors

5. Sanyo Denki Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Sanyo Denki is renowned stepper motor manufacturer, serving both industrial and robotics markets with robust motion control solutions.

Main Products

• SANMOTION F2 stepper motors

• Integrated motor-driver solutions

• Linear actuators

Advantages

• Heat-resistant designs

• Easy-to-integrate systems

• High-durability under industrial use

6. Panasonic Industry Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Part of Panasonic Holdings, this division is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and specializes in automation systems, offering intelligent and compact motor control solutions.

Main Products

• Compact stepper motors

• Closed-loop stepper drives

• Micro stepping solutions

Advantages

• Integration with Panasonic control systems

• Stable and smooth operation

• Advanced feedback control

7. Tamagawa Seiki Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Founded in 1937, Tamagawa Seiki is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and known for precision encoders and stepper motors used in aerospace, defense, and high-end robotics.

Main Products

• Aerospace-grade stepper motors

• Servo-stepper hybrids

• Magnetic and optical encoders

Advantages

• Unmatched precision

• Rugged for demanding environments

• Trusted by aerospace industry leaders

8. Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Fuji Electric is a leading stepper motor manufacturer in industrial automation. Its stepper motor offerings focus on energy savings and motion efficiency.

Main Products

• Stepping motors for semiconductor tools

• Hybrid and micro-stepping types

Advantages

• Reliability in industrial automation

• Compact high-performance designs

• Energy-efficient systems

9. NSK Ltd.

Company Profile

NSK is a stepper motor manufacturer and primarily known for its bearings, but also provides precision stepper motor solutions for medical and semiconductor machinery.

Main Products

• Precision linear actuators with stepper drives

• Integrated motion systems

Advantages

• High positioning accuracy

• Integration-ready designs

• Long service life

10. THK Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

THK is a top stepper motor manufacturer of motion components, especially linear guides, and provides integrated stepper motors in actuator packages.

Main Products

• Linear motor actuators

• Stepper-based positioning systems

Advantages

• Seamless integration with linear motion products

• High load capacity

• Compact motion control

11. Igarashi Electric Works Ltd.

Company Profile

Igarashi is a stepper motor manufacturer and specializes in small motors for automotive and consumer electronics, including custom stepper motors for global OEMs.

Main Products

• Automotive stepper motors

• Gear-integrated steppers

Advantages

• Compact motor design

• ISO/TS certification

• Automotive-grade reliability

12. Nippon Pulse Motor Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Nippon Pulse is a dedicated stepper motor manufacturer, offering innovative stepper motors and motion controllers for precise applications.

Main Products

• Tin-can and hybrid stepper motors

• Linear shaft motors

• PCL motion controllers

Advantages

• Plug-and-play integration

• Ultra-smooth stepping

• Advanced control protocols

13. Sankyo Seisakusho Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

A key player in mechatronics, Sankyo is a leading stepper motor manufacturer and offers a broad range of high-performance stepper motors integrated into complex systems.

Main Products

• Rotary indexers with stepper systems

• High-speed stepper motor actuators

Advantages

• Robust motion repeatability

• Custom motion integration

• High-speed capabilities

14. Konica Minolta Inc.

Company Profile

While known for imaging, Konica Minolta is a stepper motor manufacturer and develops ultra-miniature stepper motors for printers and precision instruments.

Main Products

• Micro stepper motors

• Embedded actuator modules

Advantages

• Industry-leading miniaturization

• Reliability in high-cycle operations

• Quiet operation

15. Jkongmotor

Company Profile

Jkongmotor is a leading stepper motor manufacturer for medical and optical equipment, particularly in imaging systems and precision endoscopy.

Main Products

• Mini stepper actuators

• Integrated camera-focus steppers

Advantages

• Precision optical integration

• Quiet and smooth movement

• High reliability in medical-grade applications

16. Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Murata is a stepper motor manufacturer leader, offering small stepper motors for wearable tech, sensors, and micro robotics.

Main Products

• Micro-hybrid stepper motors

• Precision motion assemblies

Advantages

• Ultra-lightweight designs

• Low power consumption

• Custom assembly capability

17. Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Yamaha is a leading stepper motor manufacturer—they offer advanced automation equipment, including precision stepper-based robots.

Main Products

• Cartesian robots with stepper drives

• Integrated motion systems

Advantages

• Proven robotics reliability

• Compact multi-axis control

• Scalable for manufacturing lines

18. Omron Corporation

Company Profile

Omron is a stepper motor manufacturer leader that integrates motion control with sensors and smart systems, including stepper motor-driven axes.

Main Products

• Automation modules using steppers

• Servo/stepper hybrid drives

Advantages

• Total system integration

• Smart factory compatibility

• High performance diagnostics

19. BesFoc Motor

Company Profile

BesFoc is a stepper motor manufacturer producing stepper motors and components for high-speed industrial automation.

Main Products

• Custom steppers for OEMs

• Linear actuators with stepper cores

Advantages

• Japanese precision manufacturing

• Customization for niche applications

• Reliable in harsh environments

20. Mabuchi Motor Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

Mabuchi Motor is a global stepper motor manufacturer leader with a growing line of compact stepper motors used in automotive and electronics.

Main Products

• Miniature hybrid stepper motors

• Automotive HVAC steppers

Advantages

• Large-scale production capacity

• ISO/TS compliance

• Wide voltage and size ranges

21. Harmonic Drive Systems Inc.

Company Profile

Harmonic Drive is a stepper motor manufacturer leader and known for its advanced gearing solutions, often integrating stepper motors with its compact harmonic reducers.

Main Products

• Gear-integrated stepper systems

• Precision positioning units

Advantages

• Zero-backlash operation

• High torque-to-weight ratio

• Ideal for robotics and space-limited devices

22. Fanuc Corporation

Company Profile

FANUC is a global stepper motor manufacturer leader in CNC and industrial robotics, with stepper motor technologies used in legacy systems and auxiliary motion axes.

Main Products

• Stepper-driven auxiliary modules

• Positioning solutions

Advantages

• Industrial-grade reliability

• Integration with FANUC CNC systems

• Trusted by manufacturers worldwide

23. Daikin Industries Ltd.

Company Profile

Daikin is a stepper motor manufacturer leader and integrates stepper motors into its HVAC and environmental control products for smooth operation and high precision.

Main Products

• Actuators with embedded steppers

• HVAC valve control motors

Advantages

• Smooth load transition

• Energy-efficient drive systems

• Long-term field reliability

24. Ricoh Company, Ltd.

Company Profile

Ricoh is a leading stepper motor manufacturer develops specialized stepper motors for use in printers, copiers, and office automation products.

Main Products

• Printer-feed stepper motors

• Image positioning modules

Advantages

• Proven in high-volume products

• Extremely reliable in compact spaces

• OEM integration support

25. Seiko Epson Corporation

Company Profile

Epson is a leading stepper motor manufacturer in printing and electronics, and also a precision manufacturer of small stepper motors.

Main Products

• Micro stepping motors

• Printer carriage and actuator motors

Advantages

• Ultra-precise step angles

• Proven miniaturization capability

• High-reliability in continuous use

Advantages of Stepper Motor Operation

• Precise motion control without feedback

• Repeatable movement for consistent tasks

• Simple control via digital pulses

• Reliable performance for long-duration use

Common Applications

• 3D printers

• CNC machines

• Robotics

• Medical devices

• Camera platforms

• Textile machinery

Conclusion

Stepper motors work by receiving electrical pulses and converting them into fixed step movements. Their ability to move precisely and hold position makes them ideal for robotics, 3D printers, CNC machines, automation systems, and camera controls. With advancements in microstepping and closed-loop systems, stepper motors continue to be a preferred solution for accurate, repeatable motion.