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Linear Axes — Terminology
This page clarifies the NILAB terminology for linear motion, so that the overlapping terms (Stage, Slide, Linear Unit, Module) are not confusing.
The terms at a glance
| Term | Meaning | NILAB examples |
| Linear axis | The complete motion module: drive + guide + carriage + encoder | GDM, LM, RM, MCSS, ULCO, NL-BCJ |
| Linear stage | A complete axis with an integrated guide and carriage | GDM Tubular Linear Stage, LM Linear Stage, RM Linear Stage, NL-BCJ Eco Linear stage |
| Linear slide | A compact slide with an integrated drive | MCSS Mini Linear Slides |
| Linear unit | A modular, often belt-driven, unit | ULCO Belt-driven linear units |
| Module | A motor module with a carriage and guide | GDM (module version) |
| Linear motor (bare) | The motor only — needs a guide, carriage, and encoder | NL, GD, GDi, L/LK, NLNS |
Why the terms overlap
- Linear Stage is used for GDM, LM, RM, and NL-BCJ — all are complete axes with an integrated guide and carriage. - Slide is used for MCSS — a compact slide with an integrated drive. - Linear Unit is used for ULCO — a modular, belt-driven unit. - Module is used for GDM — the motor module version.
The distinction is mainly about construction and drive type, not performance:
- Stage = integrated guide + carriage (direct-drive motor). - Slide = compact, integrated drive (miniature motors). - Unit = modular, belt-driven. - Module = motor module with carriage.