Abstract: A print head motor control system uses a desired function of print head position versus time and a measured print head position to form an error signal. The print head controller forms a motor drive signal from the sum of a first term corresponding to the square root of the absolute value of the error signal and a second term corresponding to a dead band signal having a predetermined slope if said error signal exceeds a predetermined value. The desired function of print head position versus time may be formed by double integrating a desired function of print head acceleration versus time. The print head motor control preferably also includes a velocity loop subtracting a print head velocity estimated from the measured print head position from the sum. The print head motor control is preferably implemented using a microprocessor.