Product News: New High-Speed Piezo Z-Stage and Digital Controller Value Packages for Microscopy / Metrology, Released by Physik Instrumente

Industry leader in motion and precision positioning components and systems PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P. has released several controller & stage value packages for microscopy and metrology applications. 

These affordable systems consist of a PIFOC^® high performance fast piezo focus mechanism and a compact digital servo controller. These outstanding packages deliver higher performance at lower cost.

100, 250, and 400µm Travel Options, Simple Installation
PI’s PIFOC line of lens positioners can scan and position objectives with sub-nm resolution at high bandwidth – important features for surface metrology and super-resolution microscopy applications. Equipped with direct measuring sensors for the highest linearity and stability, the frictionless piezo drive ensures rapid response, high stiffness, and a fast settling time of a few milliseconds. The computer-optimized play-free flexure guiding system enhances repeatability and focusing stability.

A quick lock threaded adapter makes PIFOC stages easy to attach. Adapters are available to address applications with apertures up to 29mm diameter.

Digital Controller with Fast Focus and Freeze, Automated Scans
The digital servo piezo controller offers the advantage of higher linearity, simple operation, and easy access to advanced features in comparison to conventional analog piezo controllers. It provides responsive real-time tracking, and it supports PI's unique Fast Focus & Freeze capability, where the unit can be bumplessly switched from external (focus) sensor to internal (capacitive, SGS or piezoresistive) sensor, allowing precise, calibrated, stable motions with respect to the focal plane. A comprehensive software package is included: drivers for LabVIEW, dynamic libraries for Windows and Linux, MATLAB, MetaMorph, µManager, Andor iQ. Interfaces include USB, SPI, RS-232 and analog. Supported functions include Wave generator, data recorder, auto zero, and trigger I/O.

Applications of the FMPA Engine
Fields of applications include microscopy, confocal microscopy, 3D imaging, screening, autofocus systems, surface analysis, and wafer inspection.

Features & Advantages

• Value Package with Piezo Mechanics and Controller
• Travel Ranges: 100, 250, 400 μm
• Frictionless, High-Precision Flexure Guiding System for Better Focus Stability
• Clear Aperture up to 29 mm Ø
• QuickLock Adapter for Easy Installation
• Fast Digital Controller with Comprehensive Software Package

Standard and Custom
PI has over 4 decades of experience providing in-house engineered precision motion control solutions, and can quickly modify existing product designs or provide a fully customized OEM part to fit the exact requirements of the customer’s application.

To see more from Physik Instrument please visit their website here.