What makes step and dir?

Hi, I have only posted a few times and was asked a question that I
couldnt answer: I was wondering if I wanted to make a machine that
made one move in the X direction then back to cut slots. What could I
use to make the step and direction to Geko drives that power steppers?

In the past I have always used a PC based CNC, but I really wouldnt
need to have the features and flexibility of a CNC because I want to
go one direction and a fixed amount and then back.

Can a plc do step and direction or is there another simple way to do
one move and back? Thanks for any input.

Dave Harhay