What is 'deadband' in motor control?

• A. A range of input values where no output occurs to prevent jitter.
• B. A range of input values where output is amplified.
• C. A parameter that sets loop frequency.
• D. A temporary pause in all outputs.

Answer: (A)

Deadband is a range of input values around the idle position where the motor output remains zero. This creates an inactivity zone so tiny input fluctuations or noise don’t cause the motor to twitch or chatter. The controller only drives the motor once the input crosses this threshold, which makes motion smoother and reduces wear from unnecessary small movements. It’s not about amplifying small inputs, changing how fast the control loop runs, or pausing all outputs—it's simply the deliberate exclusion of insignificant signals from producing motion.