News | July 26, 2023

Multi-Axis Microscopy Stages For Super-Resolution Microscopes And High Resolution Imaging Applications Provide Nanometer Resolution

PI - PInano_P545-E727_PI_highres

Auburn, MA – Nanopositioning and Air Bearing specialist PI offers a family of piezoelectric microscopy nanopositioning stages for super resolution microscopy and other high precision scanning applications. The PInano® product line of high resolution XY/XYZ multi-axis nanopositioning stages includes the piezo scanner, software, and a state-of-the art digital motion controller.

Digital Motion Controller with Fast Focus and Freeze, Automated Scans
The closed-loop digital servo piezo controller offers the advantage of higher linearity, and easy access to advanced features in comparison to conventional analog servo piezo motion controllers. It provides responsive real-time tracking, and it supports PI's unique Fast Focus & Freeze capability, where the nanopositioning stage can be switched from an external loop (focus sensor) to internal loop (position measuring sensor), without a position jump, allowing ultra-stable motions with respect to the focal plane.

Features & Advantages

  • 1 nanometer resolution
  • 200µm travel ranges in XY and XYZ
  • Low-cost piezoresistive and high-end capacitive sensor versions available
  • Ultra-high-speed version for particle tracking
  • Millisecond step & settle
  • Low profile for easy integration: 20mm (0.8")
  • Made in the USA

Software Package
An extensive software package is included: dynamic libraries for Windows and Linux, MATLAB, and, of course, LabVIEW drivers. The system is also compatible with major image acquisition packages, such as µManager, MetaMorph, Andor iQ. Interfaces include USB, RS-232, and high-resolution analog (4 inputs, ±5V or ±10V, 18-bit A/D converters). Supported functions include data recorder, auto zero, wave generator, and trigger I/O.

200 Micrometer Travel per Axis with Millisecond Responsiveness
The easy-to-integrate, low-profile (20mm/0.8") microscopy nanopositioning stages provide 1 nanometer resolution or better with long travel ranges of 200µm and millisecond step time – ideal prerequisites for high-resolution microscopy and imaging applications. Microscope slides and Petri dishes are easily accommodated in the large clear aperture.

Direct-Drive for Ultra-High-Speed Particle Tracking
A high-force, high-speed variant with direct-drive and a high-output piezo controller / amplifier is also available for the fastest applications including particle tracking.

Applications of the PInano® Microscopy Stages
Applications include super-resolution microscopy, scanning microscopy, digital slide scanning, confocal microscopy, 3D imaging, screening, autofocus systems, surface analysis, and wafer inspection.

Standard and Custom Motion Control Products
In addition to a large variety of standard motion control products and piezo mechanic stages, PI can quickly modify existing product designs or provide a fully customized OEM part to fit the exact requirements of the application.