News companies use motion control software to keep traffic cameras rolling, and automobile plants use it to help employees assemble cars. Motion control software is designed to handle signals or other communications controlled by a computer and motion. But motion control software programs are used in hundreds of other industries, especially in robotics, so you'll have to be very specific in your search for software as well as in the search for which processes you want your software to take on. It won't do you any good to have software that doesn't work seamlessly with your hardware. There is motion control software that can handle a variety of motion controllers, but it is rare and costly.

Find motion control software programs for your application, but take the following into consideration first:

1. Industry directories for application-specific motion control software

2. Top-rated and reviewed motion control software

3. Free and instant downloads or free demos

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find motion control software programs for any industry via web directories

For motion control software for use in everything from personal computers to vehicle control stations, go to web directories and conduct a search using the phrase 'motion control software'. You'll see thousands of options and the software is highly specific, so take considerable care in what kind of tasks your software will take on.

I recommend: A quick search of MotionNet.com yields links to fully integrated motion control system providers Lenze-ACTech and Technosoft.

Look for top-rated and affordable motion control software online

Ratings for motion control software, like many other product, can be found easily online. Consumer reviews, unlike industry expert reviews, can let you know how user-friendly the software is as well as whether or not it's worth the cost. And, while it's a good idea to look for consumer reviews, buy via the manufacturer site for valuable information and guarantees.

I recommend: Timhillone Software offers a reasonably priced software program and has been given at least three out of five stars by consumers, as has Technosoft. All Motion boasts software that can handle a variety of of motion controls.

Try free motion control software or even demos before you buy

Not a penny to spare? There are lots of motion control software programs offered in specific applications for free via the Web. And, many of the companies that offer programs available for purchase feature free demos. As with any other downloads, security is an issue so make sure you have taken the proper measures to protect your computer.

I recommend: Try out AbelCam's software for multi-camera motion control. PY Software also offers software for controlling cameras and other video devices.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check out motion control association memberships. You may have to pay membership dues but they offer the latest publications, cutting-edge motion control software and expert advice for those who rely on motion control technology.