Ball screw assemblies translate rotational motion to linear motion or vice versa. They are widely used to guide, support, locate and accurately move components and products in a wide range of automation applications, ranging from small laboratory fluid pumps to large overhead gantry systems. Specifying the right ball screw for a given application will ensure machine accuracy, repeatability and life while minimizing the total cost of ownership. This white paper provides an overview of ball screw assemblies and the factors that motion system designers must consider to ensure optimal application performance.