Dip Switch settings on the M542 stepper motor drivers

[Tom J]

Ok, old thread but what to do if we use direct drive via coupling from stepper motor to ballscrew
Ballscrew pitch 5mm
200steps (one revolution) = travel 5mm or 0.025mm per step.
1600 steps/rev will give travel 0.003125 per steps
Is this going to be ok for cut smoothness - final surface quality etc?

I personally always use gear not direct drive, however all the MC on my work place use direct drive but with servo motors which should not be compared to steppers.

[JAZZCNC]

Ok, old thread but what to do if we use direct drive via coupling from stepper motor to ballscrew
Ballscrew pitch 5mm
200steps (one revolution) = travel 5mm or 0.025mm per step.
1600 steps/rev will give travel 0.003125 per steps
Is this going to be ok for cut smoothness - final surface quality etc?

I personally always use gear not direct drive, however all the MC on my work place use direct drive but with servo motors which should not be compared to steppers.

You really shouldn't mistake micro-stepping as resolution as it doesn't always translate that way and very much depends on the stepper motor quality. Most can't resolve each step to that degree and accurately hold it repeatably.
MS is better thought of as helping with smoothness and yes with 1600MS it gives a nice smooth action, 3200 gives better action but now you risk stressing the motion control device, also torque drops as MS increases so voltage/current comes into play.!! . . As with life, there is always a price to pay for anything worth having.