Patent attributes
A method for homing a stepping motor having a plurality of full-step positions within each full rotation of a rotor of the stepper motor includes applying a first drive current to windings of the stepper motor to rotate the rotor at least one full rotation in a first direction away from an end-of-travel (EOT) position. Thereafter, the drive current is applied to the windings to rotate the rotor in a second direction toward the EOT position. Upon detection of EOT, the drive current is discontinued. Drive current is then applied to the windings to rotate the rotor of the stepper motor in micro-steps in the first direction to a closest full-step position of the stepper motor. Finally, a drive current is applied to drive the stepper motor a predetermined number of full steps away from the EOT position.