Embodiments of the present invention provide a motor-driven mechanical system with a detection system to measure properties of a back channel and derive oscillatory characteristics of the mechanical system. Uses of the detection system may include calculating the resonant frequency of the mechanical system and a threshold drive DTH required to move the mechanical system from the starting mechanical stop position. System manufacturers often do not know the resonant frequency and DTH of their mechanical systems precisely. Therefore, the calculation of the specific mechanical system's resonant frequency and DTH rather than depending on the manufacturer's expected values improves precision in the mechanical system use. The backchannel calculations may be used either to replace or to improve corresponding pre-programmed values.