What is the primary function of applying voltage to the coils of a stepper motor?

The primary function of applying voltage to the coils of a stepper motor is to rotate the motor. Stepper motors operate by receiving pulses or voltages at specific intervals and angles, which cause the motor to move in discrete steps. Each pulse of voltage energizes a particular coil, creating a magnetic field that interacts with the rotor, enabling it to turn to a specific position.

In essence, the stepper motor converts electrical energy into precise mechanical movement. By controlling the sequence and timing of when voltage is applied to the coils, it’s possible to control the direction, speed, and position of the motor with high precision. This characteristic makes stepper motors exceptionally useful in applications requiring accurate positioning, such as in robotics or CNC machines.