The MZS500-E bundle consists of a Z-Axis stage and a piezo controller. Together, they provide a vertical positioning solution for microscopy users. The Z-axis stage is designed for use with the MLS203 XY scanning stage to present a 3D positioning solution for applications such as Z-axis slicing or 3D image collection.

MZS500-E Stage with Multiwell Plate Fitted

MZS500-E Z-Axis Stage Features

• 500 µm Vertical Travel
• 25 nm Resolution
• Designed for use with Our MLS203 XY Stage
• Range of Sample Holders Available (See Below for Details)

Thorlabs' MZS500-E Low-Profile, Piezo-Driven Stage provides 500 µm of travel in the vertical (Z-axis) direction and is designed specifically for visualizing specimens or samples in applications such as confocal microscopy and 3D imaging. The MZS500-E stage is sold with a closed-loop, piezo controller and includes everything that is needed for computer-controlled, Z-axis positioning and active location feedback.

The MZS500-E stage is fully compatible with the MLS203 series of XY stage systems.These two products combined present a versatile 3D solution for translating samples over a long travel range or scanning across a sample with high precision. The closed-loop, active feedback ensures correct positioning with submicron repeatability and resolution of 25 nm, making this stage system ideal for applications that require highly accurate focus control.

The MLS203/MZS500-E XYZ stage system also provides active feedback to compensate for thermal changes and other factors that might lead to stage drift. It is ideally suited for use in laser scanning microscopy setups for 2D or 3D laser collection.

A range of accessory adapters is available to allow the positioning of standard microscope slides, multiwell plates, Petri dishes, and mounted metalurgical specimens. A joystick console is also available for remote, manual positioning. See below for more details.

MZS500-E Piezo Controller

MZS500-E Controller Features

• Front Panel Controls
• High Power: 150 V, 500 mA Continuous
• Closed-Loop PID Position via Capacitive Feedback Circuit
• Quiet, High-Resolution Position Control (For Very Fine Positioning)
• Voltage Ramp/Waveform Generation Capability (For Scanning Applications)
• High Bandwidth (10 kHz) Piezo Positioning
• User-Controlled Digital I/O Port
• USB Plug-and-Play Enables Multi-Axis Expansion
• Full Software Control Suite Supplied
• Intuitive Software Provides Graphical Control Panels
• Fully Software Integrated with Other apt™ Family Controllers (Iintegrated Systems Development)

The MZS500-E Piezo Controller included with the stage is a single-channel high-power (150 V, 500 mA) benchtop piezo controller for open- and closed-loop nanometer position control. It has been designed specifically to drive our Z-axis piezo stage. In addition, flexible software settings make this controller highly configurable and therefore suitable for driving a wide range of piezo elements in third-party products. A waveform generation capability combined with triggering outputs make this system particularly suitable for piezo scanning applications.

Controls are located on the front face of the unit to allow manual adjustment of the piezo position using the digitally encoded adjustment pot. The display is easy to read and can be set to show either applied voltage or position in microns. Open- or closed-loop control and zeroing of the piezo can also be selected from the front panel.

USB connectivity provides easy plug-and-play PC operation; multiple units can be connected to a single PC via standard USB hub technology for multi-axis motion control applications. Coupling this with the very user-friendly apt™ software allows the user to very quickly get up and running in a short period of time. For example, all relevant operating parameters are set automatically for Thorlabs' piezo actuator products. Advanced custom motion control applications and sequences are also possible using the extensive ActiveX® programming environment.