We have discussed earlier that the slipping of a belt or rope is a common phenomenon, in the transmission of motion or power between two shafts. The effect of slipping is to reduce the velocity ratio of the system. In precision machines, in which a definite velocity ratio is of importance (as in watch mechanism), the only positive drive is by gears or toothed wheels. A gear drive is also provided, when the distance between the driver and the follower is very small.