• Left- or Right-Hand Configurable
• Smooth, Repeatable Positioning

The Manual Microscope Translator (MT-FN1) can be easily configured in either a left- or right-handed XY orientation. The MT-FN1 manual Microscope Translator utilizes micrometer drives with a graduated scale to provide smooth translation and repeatable positioning, which allows one to return to a previously viewed location.

• Automated XY Positioning
• 0.05 µm/Step Movement

• Encoded XY Positioning
• >0.3 µm Position Acuracy with Encoder

The performance of the Motorized Microscope Translator is further enhanced by utilizing XY stages with high-resolution integrated linear optical encoders in combination with Thorlabs’ two-channel, closed-loop stepper motor controller (a href="_QLPopup.cfm?PN=BSC202" onclick="return hs.htmlExpand(this, {objectType: 'iframe'} )">BSC202). The linear optical encoder provides feedback to the drive electronics to ensure accurate positioning and allows a direct readout of the absolute position of the stage. The controller connects via USB to a PC, where the apt™ software can be used to control the motion of the translator (for software details, click on the BSC202 link to the right).

With a resolution of 0.1 µm, the bi-directional position accuracy is greater than 0.3 µm (compared to 0.5 µm without the encoders) over the full 50 mm of travel. The motorized microscope translator with optical encoders allows the user to return to a previous position within the specimen and is the ideal solution for applications where stability, long microscope travel, and high-load capacity need to be achieved with absolute position accuracy.

• UltraLight Series I Breadboard with Sealed Holes to Contain Spills
• Imperial and Metric Versions Available
• Full 270° Array of 1/4"-20 (M6) Taps
• Mechanically and Thermally Stable

The PHY24BB (PHY24BB/M) breadboard is designed to be used as a microscopy stage; the U-shape surrounds the microscope, providing 270° of workspace with over 200 1/4"-20 (M6) tapped mounting holes. Its lightweight aluminum construction makes it portable, while the thermally stable honeycomb construction provides excellent dynamic rigidity with a high strength-to-weight ratio. In addition, tapped mounting holes are individually sealed in order to contain spills.

The dimensions of the U-shaped breadboard are ideal for the Nikon Eclipse FN1 upright microscope. The Ø110 mm insert can be removed entirely or it can be used to hold a standard microscope slide or 35 mm Petri dish. Larger specimens, patch clamps, and other accessories can be easily secured to the working surface using the 1/4"-20 (M6) tapped holes.

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• Continuously Adjustable Height from 8" to 12"
• Lockable Design
• Top-Located 1/4" -20 (M6) Tap
• Universal Base for Mounting to Work Surfaces with Imperial or Metric Taps
• Load Capacity/Post: 300 lbs (136 kg)

The PHYS12P(/M) Adjustable-Height Support Columns are designed to support a breadboard or microscope stage. Each post has a top-located 1/4"- 20 (M6) tap and a universal base that has four 1/4" (M6) counterbored holes on 2" (50 mm) centers for mounting it to an optical table or optical breadboard. The height of the post is continuously adjustable from 8" to 12", and its position can be locked using a knurled ring locking collar. To secure the columns to an optical table is as simple as loosening the locking collar and raising the red housing. This will provide access to the four counterboard 1/4" (M6) mounting holes.

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Step 1: Loosen the Locking collar, and raise the threaded portion of the post.

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Step 2: Raise the red cover and attach the post base to the table.

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Step 3: Lower the red cover, ensuring the dowel pins in the base are aligned with the holes in the cover. Adjust the post to the desired height, and then lower the locking ring to lock the height.