Final answer:
The decision between a stepper motor and a TAC motor depends on whether precise control of position (stepper motor) or speed (TAC motor) is needed in an application, with TAC motors providing real-time speed feedback for applications that require constant speed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The choice between using a stepper motor and a TAC motor (also known as a tachometer motor) is typically based on the specific requirements of the application. While stepper motors are well-suited for applications that require precise control of motor position without the need for feedback, TAC motors are often used in situations that demand precise control of speed, especially when it's crucial to maintain a constant speed.
Stepper motors operate by moving a fixed step angle when energized in sequence, which makes them ideal for precise positioning in tasks such as 3D printing or CNC machines. TAC motors, on the other hand, integrate a tachometer for real-time speed feedback, making them excellent for applications where speed needs to be accurately monitored and controlled, as in conveyor systems or robotics.
Therefore, one would not use a stepper motor in place of a TAC motor if the application demands precise speed regulation that stepper motors cannot provide. Each motor type serves a distinct purpose in controls engineering, dictated by the performance demands of the system they are integrated into.