Piezoelectric Inertia Actuators


  • Models for Kinematic Mounts and Translation Stages
  • 10 mm, 13 mm, 25 mm, or 50 mm Travel Range
  • 10 - 20 nm Typical Step Size
  • 2 mm/minute Typ. Speed, 3.5 mm/minute Max

PIAK10

10 mm Travel Range,
1/4"-80 Mounting Thread
for Ø1" and Ø2" Mirror Mounts

MPIA10

10 mm Travel Range,
3/16"-100 Mounting Thread
for Ø1/2" Mirror Mounts

Application Idea

MPIA10 Mini Piezo Inertia Actuators can be used
in place of the 3/16"-100 adjustment screws
in our KM05 Ø1/2" Mirror Mount. 

PIA25

25 mm Travel Range,
Ø3/8" Mounting Barrel
for Translation Stages

Related Items


Please Wait
Key Specificationsa
Item # MPIA10 PIAK10 PIA13 PIA25 PIA50
Travel 10 mm 10 mm 13 mm 25 mm 50 mm
Typical Step Sizeb 10 - 20 nm 20 nm
Step Size Adjustability Up to 30%
Speed
(Continuous Stepping)
2 mm/minute (Typical)
<3.5 mm/minute (Max)
Max Active Axial Preloadc 13 N 30 Nd 25 Nd
Motor Type Piezoelectric Inertia
Primary Mounting Feature 3/16"-100 Thread 1/4"-80 Thread Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) Barrel
Typical Applicatione Ø1/2"
Mirror Mounts
Ø1" or Ø2"
Mirror Mounts
Translation Stages
Required Controllerf KIM001 or KIM101
  • See the Specs tab for complete specifications.
  • This value can vary by up to 20% and is not normally repeatable due to component variance, change of direction, and application conditions. Step size can be adjusted using the controller.
  • The axial force applied to the drive tip to achieve the specified step size. A higher axial load is possible, but this may decrease the typical step size or stop the actuator from driving.
  • A minimum of 5 N is recommended to enhance stepping behavior.
  • Mounts and stages with the same actuator mounting feature and travel range are compatible.
  • Controllers are sold separately below. These actuators can also be controlled using the legacy TIM101 T-Cube™ controller.

Features

  • Compact Motor Housings:
    • MPIA10: 21.4 mm x 14.6 mm (W x H)
    • PIA Series: 31.5 mm x 17.0 mm (W x H)
  • Manual Adjustment via Knob on Adjuster Screw
  • 130 V Maximum Operating Voltage
  • Variants with Mounting Threads for Compatibility with Kinematic Mounts or Ø3/8" Barrel for Linear Translation Stages (See Table to the Right for Details)
  • Ideal for Set-and-Hold Applications that Require High-Resolution Relative Positioning

Thorlabs' Piezoelectric Inertia Actuators provide high-resolution linear motion control with long translation ranges in compact packages. These actuators provide a typical step size on the order of 20 nm and no backlash. The step size can be adjusted up to 30% to a maximum of approximately 30 nm using the KIM001 or KIM101 Controllers. However, due to the open-loop design, piezo hysteresis, and application conditions such as the direction of travel, the achieved step size of the system can vary by up to 20% and is not normally repeatable. An external feedback system will need to be used to overcome this variance. We also offer vacuum-compatible piezo inertia actuators.

These actuators are self-locking when at rest and when there is no power supplied to the piezo, making them ideal for set-and-hold applications that require nanometer resolution and long-term alignment stability. Manual adjustments can be made using the knob on the adjuster screw, as long as the piezo is not actively translating the screw; the knob is also compatible with 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex keys.

Powered by discrete piezo stacks, these actuators operate at speeds of up to 3.5 mm/minute. The design of the piezo motor, detailed below, will rotate the tip of the lead screw during translation.

Mounting Options
The MPIA10 actuator features a 3/16"-100 threaded barrel for compatibility with 3/16"-100 threaded mirror mounts, while the PIAK10 actuator features a 1/4"-80 threaded barrel for compatibility with 1/4"-80 threaded mirror mounts. The PIA13, PIA25, and PIA50 actuators each have a Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) barrel that can be mounted in a manual stage that has a Ø3/8" mounting clamp.

Required Controller
A KIM001 or KIM101 Controller, available below, is required to operate our piezo inertia actuators; these actuators cannot be driven using a standard piezo controller. These drivers have an internal sawtooth voltage signal generator capable of sending sub-millisecond pulses (steps) with controllable amplitudes from 85 V to 125 V. Each stage has an integrated 1.0 m cable; 1.5 m SMC extension cables (Item # PAA101) and male-to-male SMC adapters (Item # T5026) are also available. Note: due to the capacitance of the cables, the total length of the control cable should not exceed 2.5 m.

Inertia Motor
Click to Enlarge

Simplified Illustration Showing the Operation of an Inertia Piezo Actuator

Piezoelectric Inertia "Slip-Stick" Motor

A piezo stack mounted perpendicular to the lead screw axis actuates the screw via a design based on the system's inertia and coefficients of friction. Two decoupled arms, or jaws, are located on either side of the piezo. These arms extend across the top and bottom of the main lead screw, as illustrated in the diagram to the left.

The piezo reacts to a custom sawtooth voltage waveform, causing it to expand or contract. The waveform is asymmetric, slowly ramping up to the specified voltage and then quickly dropping the voltage to zero on a nanosecond timescale. As shown in the bottom illustration to the left, the jaws will "stick" to the lead screw during the slow voltage ramp due to static friction, turning the screw similar to a person using their thumb and forefinger. The nanosecond voltage drop will cause the arms to "slip" due to the screws' inertia and the lower coefficient of dynamic friction, allowing the arms to return to their original position without undoing the rotation of the screw. This mechanism allows a single piezo element to translate a lead screw along its entire length.

Due to a number of factors that include the application conditions, piezo hysteresis, component variance, and the axial load, the achieved step size will vary and is not repeatable. To help overcome this variance, an external feedback system will need to be used. Alternatively, a stepper motor actuator can also be substituted depending on the application.

Actuator Dimensionsa
MPIA10 1.93" x 0.84" x 0.57"
(48.9 mm x 21.4 mm x 14.6 mm)
PIAK10 2.87" x 1.24" x 0.67"
(72.9 mm x 31.5 mm x 17.0 mm)
PIA13 2.34" x 1.24" x 0.67"
(59.5 mm x 31.5 mm x 17.0 mm)
PIA25 2.81" x 1.24" x 0.67"
(71.4 mm x 31.5 mm x 17.0 mm)
PIA50 3.80" x 1.24" x 0.67"
(96.6 mm x 31.5 mm x 17.0 mm)
  • Dimensions do not include the cable.
Item # MPIA10 PIAK10 PIA13 PIA25 PIA50
Travel 10 mm 10 mm 13 mm 25 mm 50 mm
Typical Step Sizea 10 - 20 nm 20 nm
Maximum Step Size <30 nm
Step Size Adjustabilityb Up to 30%
Maximum Step Frequencyc 2000 Hz
Backlash None
Max Active Axial Preloadd 13 N 30 Ne 25 Ne
Typical Angular Resolution Ø1/2" Mirror Mounts: 0.5 - 1 μradf Ø1" Mirror Mounts: 0.5 μrad
Ø2" Mirror Mounts: 0.3 μradg
N/A
Recommended Max Active
Axial Load Capacityh
N/A 2.5 kg (5.51 lbs)
Velocity
(Continuous Stepping)
2 mm/min (Typical)
<3.5 mm/min (Maximum)
Drive Screw 6-80 Thread, Hard PVD Coated 1/4"-80 Thread, Hard PVD Coated
Actuator Tip Tungsten Carbide Ball
Lifetime >1.5 x 108 Steps >1 Billion Steps
Motor Type Piezoelectric Inertia
Piezo Specifications
Voltage Rating 130 V
Capacitance 100 nF 175 nF
Resonant Frequency 250 kHz 125 kHz (No Load)
Physical Specifications
Mounting Option(s) 3/16"-100 Threaded Barrel 1/4"-80 Threaded Barrel 3/8"-40 Threaded Barrel
Ø3/8" (Ø9.5 mm) Barrel Ø3/8" (Ø9.5 mm) Barrel
Operating Temperature 10 to 40 °C (50 to 104 °F)
Cable Length 1.0 m (40")
Cable Exit Adjustability Fixed ±55° (Left- or Right-Hand Exit)
Connector SMC, Female
Compatible Controller KIM001 or KIM101
  • This value can vary by up to 20% and is not normally repeatable due to component variance, change of direction, and application conditions.
  • This can be adjusted by up to 30% using the KIM001 or KIM101 Controllers.
  • Using the KIM001 or KIM101 Inertia Piezo Controllers
  • The axial force applied to the drive tip to achieve the specified step size. A higher axial load is possible, but this may decrease the typical step size or stop the actuator from driving.
  • A minimum of 5 N is recommended to enhance stepping behavior.
  • The typical angular resolution when an MPIA10 Actuator is fitted to a Ø1/2" mirror mount with a maximum active preload of 13 N.
  • The typical angular resolution when a PIAK10 Actuator is fitted to a Ø1" or Ø2" mirror mount with a maximum active preload of 30 N.
  • A higher maximum load is possible but it may adversly affect the typical step size.

Thorlabs offers two platforms to drive our wide range of motion controllers: our Kinesis® software package or the legacy APT™ (Advanced Positioning Technology) software package. Either package can be used to control devices in the Kinesis family, which covers a wide range of motion controllers ranging from small, low-powered, single-channel drivers (such as the K-Cubes™ and T-Cubes™) to high-power, multi-channel, modular 19" rack nanopositioning systems (the APT Rack System).

The Kinesis Software features .NET controls which can be used by 3rd party developers working in the latest C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any .NET compatible languages to create custom applications. Low-level DLL libraries are included for applications not expected to use the .NET framework. A Central Sequence Manager supports integration and synchronization of all Thorlabs motion control hardware.

Kinesis Software
Kinesis GUI Screen
APT Software
APT GUI Screen

Our legacy APT System Software platform offers ActiveX-based controls which can be used by 3rd party developers working on C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any Active-X compatible languages to create custom applications and includes a simulator mode to assist in developing custom applications without requiring hardware.

By providing these common software platforms, Thorlabs has ensured that users can easily mix and match any of the Kinesis and APT controllers in a single application, while only having to learn a single set of software tools. In this way, it is perfectly feasible to combine any of the controllers from single-axis to multi-axis systems and control all from a single, PC-based unified software interface.

The software packages allow two methods of usage: graphical user interface (GUI) utilities for direct interaction with and control of the controllers 'out of the box', and a set of programming interfaces that allow custom-integrated positioning and alignment solutions to be easily programmed in the development language of choice.

A range of video tutorials is available to help explain our APT system software. These tutorials provide an overview of the software and the APT Config utility. Additionally, a tutorial video is available to explain how to select simulator mode within the software, which allows the user to experiment with the software without a controller connected. Please select the APT Tutorials tab above to view these videos.

Software

Kinesis Version 1.14.47

The Kinesis Software Package, which includes a GUI for control of Thorlabs' Kinesis and APT™ system controllers.

Also Available:

  • Communications Protocol
Software Download

Software

APT Version 3.21.6

The APT Software Package, which includes a GUI for control of Thorlabs' APT™ and Kinesis system controllers.

Also Available:

  • Communications Protocol
Software Download

Thorlabs' Kinesis® software features new .NET controls which can be used by third-party developers working in the latest C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any .NET compatible languages to create custom applications.

C#
This programming language is designed to allow multiple programming paradigms, or languages, to be used, thus allowing for complex problems to be solved in an easy or efficient manner. It encompasses typing, imperative, declarative, functional, generic, object-oriented, and component-oriented programming. By providing functionality with this common software platform, Thorlabs has ensured that users can easily mix and match any of the Kinesis controllers in a single application, while only having to learn a single set of software tools. In this way, it is perfectly feasible to combine any of the controllers from the low-powered, single-axis to the high-powered, multi-axis systems and control all from a single, PC-based unified software interface.

The Kinesis System Software allows two methods of usage: graphical user interface (GUI) utilities for direct interaction and control of the controllers 'out of the box', and a set of programming interfaces that allow custom-integrated positioning and alignment solutions to be easily programmed in the development language of choice.

For a collection of example projects that can be compiled and run to demonstrate the different ways in which developers can build on the Kinesis motion control libraries, click on the links below. Please note that a separate integrated development environment (IDE) (e.g., Microsoft Visual Studio) will be required to execute the Quick Start examples. The C# example projects can be executed using the included .NET controls in the Kinesis software package (see the Kinesis Software tab for details).

C Sharp Icon Click Here for the Kinesis with C# Quick Start Guide
Click Here for C# Example Projects
Click Here for Quick Start Device Control Examples
C Sharp Icon

LabVIEW
LabVIEW can be used to communicate with any Kinesis- or APT-based controller via .NET controls. In LabVIEW, you build a user interface, known as a front panel, with a set of tools and objects and then add code using graphical representations of functions to control the front panel objects. The LabVIEW tutorial, provided below, provides some information on using the .NET controls to create control GUIs for Kinesis- and APT-driven devices within LabVIEW. It includes an overview with basic information about using controllers in LabVIEW and explains the setup procedure that needs to be completed before using a LabVIEW GUI to operate a device.

Labview Icon Click Here to View the LabVIEW Guide
Click Here to View the Kinesis with LabVIEW Overview Page
Labview Icon

The APT video tutorials available here fall into two main groups - one group covers using the supplied APT utilities and the second group covers programming the APT System using a selection of different programming environments.

Disclaimer: The videos below were originally produced in Adobe Flash. Following the discontinuation of Flash after 2020, these tutorials were re-recorded for future use. The Flash Player controls still appear in the bottom of each video, but they are not functional.

Every APT controller is supplied with the utilities APTUser and APTConfig. APTUser provides a quick and easy way of interacting with the APT control hardware using intuitive graphical control panels. APTConfig is an 'off-line' utility that allows various system wide settings to be made such as pre-selecting mechanical stage types and associating them with specific motion controllers.

APT User Utility

The first video below gives an overview of using the APTUser Utility. The OptoDriver single channel controller products can be operated via their front panel controls in the absence of a control PC. The stored settings relating to the operation of these front panel controls can be changed using the APTUser utility. The second video illustrates this process.

APT User - Overview
APT User - OptoDriver Settings


APT Config Utility

There are various APT system-wide settings that can be made using the APT Config utility, including setting up a simulated hardware configuration and associating mechanical stages with specific motor drive channels. The first video presents a brief overview of the APT Config application. More details on creating a simulated hardware configuration and making stage associations are present in the next two videos.

APT Config - Overview
APT Config - Simulator Setup
APT Config - Stage Association


APT Programming

The APT Software System is implemented as a collection of ActiveX Controls. ActiveX Controls are language-independant software modules that provide both a graphical user interface and a programming interface. There is an ActiveX Control type for each type of hardware unit, e.g. a Motor ActiveX Control covers operation with any type of APT motor controller (DC or stepper). Many Windows software development environments and languages directly support ActiveX Controls, and, once such a Control is embedded into a custom application, all of the functionality it contains is immediately available to the application for automated operation. The videos below illustrate the basics of using the APT ActiveX Controls with LabVIEW, Visual Basic, and Visual C++. Note that many other languages support ActiveX including LabWindows CVI, C++ Builder, VB.NET, C#.NET, Office VBA, Matlab, HPVEE etc. Although these environments are not covered specifically by the tutorial videos, many of the ideas shown will still be relevant to using these other languages.

Visual Basic

Part 1 illustrates how to get an APT ActiveX Control running within Visual Basic, and Part 2 goes on to show how to program a custom positioning sequence.

APT Programming Using Visual Basic - Part 1
APT Programming Using Visual Basic - Part 2


LabVIEW

Full Active support is provided by LabVIEW and the series of tutorial videos below illustrate the basic building blocks in creating a custom APT motion control sequence. We start by showing how to call up the Thorlabs-supplied online help during software development. Part 2 illustrates how to create an APT ActiveX Control. ActiveX Controls provide both Methods (i.e. Functions) and Properties (i.e. Value Settings). Parts 3 and 4 show how to create and wire up both the methods and properties exposed by an ActiveX Control. Finally, in Part 5, we pull everything together and show a completed LabVIEW example program that demonstrates a custom move sequence.

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 1: Accessing Online Help
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 2: Creating an ActiveX Control
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 3: Create an ActiveX Method
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 4: Create an ActiveX Property
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 5: How to Start an ActiveX Control


The following tutorial videos illustrate alternative ways of creating Method and Property nodes:

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Create an ActiveX Method (Alternative)
APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Create an ActiveX Property (Alternative)


Visual C++

Part 1 illustrates how to get an APT ActiveX Control running within Visual C++, and Part 2 goes on to show how to program a custom positioning sequence.

APT Programming with Visual C++ - Part 1
APT Programming with Visual C++ - Part 2


MATLAB

For assistance when using MATLAB and ActiveX controls with the Thorlabs APT positioners, click here.

To further assist programmers, a guide to programming the APT software in LabVIEW is also available here.


Posted Comments:
Nate Kimmitt  (posted 2024-01-29 14:45:00.307)
Hi, I'm using PIAK10 mounted on ST1XY-S. When I position the actuators to maximize my signal, move them away, and then move back, the position of the maxima shifts (usually by ~-350 steps or so). Would this insinuate I mounted them wrong? Perhaps they aren't compatible w/ the mount I used. Trying to figure out other sources of potential drift. Thanks, Nate
spolineni  (posted 2024-02-08 07:49:59.0)
Thank you for reaching out to us. Whilst the PIA10K is not directly compatible with the ST1XY-S, it is not likely to be the step-size issue you are seeing here. The step size of the PIAs are not consistent due to the inherent design of these motors. This is due to the open-loop design, piezo hysteresis, and varying application conditions like the direction of travel, the system’s achieved step size can deviate by up to 20% or more and is typically not repeatable. To counteract this variance, an external feedback system will be necessary. I’ll be contacting you to discuss more about your application needs.
Jakin Z  (posted 2023-12-15 07:03:45.71)
Can MPIA10 be adapted for KCB1EC/M?
jens Gaebelein  (posted 2022-12-05 13:02:54.69)
Dear All, I have a question. We want to substitute our mechanical solution made with fine hex adjuster with the piezo driven adjuster. Here is the question. How big is the torque of the PIA13? With regards Jens
DJayasuriya  (posted 2022-12-06 04:30:32.0)
Thank you for your inquiry, We do spec an axial force applied to the drive tip to achieve the specified step size, for PIA13 it is 25 N. We have got in touch with you directly to discuss your application.
user  (posted 2022-06-02 09:58:18.953)
Can you adapt these piezo-inertia actuators to the 3-Axis NanoMax Stage? Is the load capacity of the piezo-inertia enough to drive the nanomax? is there a suitable adapter to connect the actuator to the nanomax? I would like to use these piezo-inertia actuators for XY scanning stage for confocal microscopy. Can you give me a feedeback on that?
cwright  (posted 2022-06-06 09:04:32.0)
Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Thank you for contacting us. Unfortunately the PIA actuators cannot be used with the NanoMax stage. I would add that these are generally not used for scanning applications. The method of creating the small steps is not highly repeatable and these devices are best used for applications where small steps are needed for precise alignment but you will not be scanning back and forth between positions as the number of steps required would vary. We will reach out to discuss your application.
user  (posted 2022-03-10 11:33:31.027)
As Piak10 can be controlled by the KIM101 that has an output voltage of 85V to 125V, what Piak10 step size can I expect if I program the controller for 85V, for example? Thank you.
cwright  (posted 2022-03-11 04:17:46.0)
Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Thank you for contacting us. The step size adjustability is 30% from the typical 20um value. As 85V is the lowest voltage you can set, you should get the greatest adjustment at this voltage. Please bear in mind the step size quoted is typical and does vary.
user  (posted 2021-07-30 11:34:29.38)
Is the PIAK powerful enough to use it with KS4 mount? The KS4 is mounted under 45° to deflect a horizontal beam vertically. The thick mirror has >300 g mass. I need to make microrad-angle changes, i.e. only a low number of steps at once. Thanks for you support! Michael
DJayasuriya  (posted 2021-08-02 10:18:51.0)
Thank you for your inquiry. Yes, you would be able to mount the PIAK10 onto the KS4. Note that the PIA would have the step size varied and non-repeatable due to piezo hysteresis, component variance, and the axial load. Please feel free to get in touch with our tech support team if you have any questions.
James McIntosh  (posted 2020-12-05 09:27:37.323)
Could you please tell me what happens if the motor reaches the limit of it's travel. Is there an intrinsic limit switch, or would I need to add Limit switches if this is a possibility in my system?
cwright  (posted 2020-12-07 04:29:41.0)
Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Thank you for your query. There are no limit switches in these devices but you can add limit switches into your application if needed via the User IO 15 Pin connector on the KIM101. If the actuator is driven into its end stops, the motor may stick and may not respond to subsequent motion demands. If this is the case, turn the adjustment knob of the actuator manually to move the device away from its end stop, then the motor should move normally.
user  (posted 2020-11-13 03:36:11.177)
Hello, 1. What is the resolution of this actuator? Let assume that I want to have Z stacks over a 200 nm range; what should the minimum step size be? Can I have 10 nm steps stacking (0, 10, 20, 30, ... 200 nm)? Then what the "Maximum Step Size" means? Can I have 100 nm stacking (0, 100, 200 nm)? 2. Do you support any kind of demo, or returning for this item? If I buy that then I understand that I need something better, can I return it in a few weeks (days)? Regards, Edalat
DJayasuriya  (posted 2020-11-16 04:51:54.0)
Thank you for your inquiry. The step size can be adjusted up to 30% to a maximum of approximately 30 nm using the KIM001 or KIM101 Controllers. Due to the piezo hysteresis, component variance, and the axial load, the achieved step size will vary and is not repeatable. We Will get in touch directly to discuss loan units and returns.
DJayasuriya  (posted 2020-11-16 04:51:54.0)
Thank you for your inquiry. The step size can be adjusted up to 30% to a maximum of approximately 30 nm using the KIM001 or KIM101 Controllers. Due to the piezo hysteresis, component variance, and the axial load, the achieved step size will vary and is not repeatable. We Will get in touch directly to discuss loan units and returns.
george sun  (posted 2020-08-24 10:14:28.387)
I have two questions: 1, when PIA25 disconnected from the KIM101 controller, can I use the manual adjustment knob? 2, Why it is so hard to turn the manual knob? I feel it is very tightened.
cwright  (posted 2020-08-27 06:11:49.0)
Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Hello George and thank you for contacting us. Yes you can use the manual adjustment knob to control the position. This can be a little tight but you shouldn't have difficulty turning it. These devices do need to have the grease on the lead screw redistributed from time to time, so a buildup of grease could be causing you trouble. We will reach out to you directly to advise on troubleshooting and re-lubricating.
ilya r  (posted 2020-06-26 11:51:57.683)
Is PIA25 compatible with LNR25D/M stage? Description says it "can be mounted in any manual stage that has a Ø3/8" mounting clamp", but I strongly doubt it is possible with LNR25, because it has too wide clamp (15 mm). Could you comment on that? Also I am not sure the neutral position of the LRN25D/M will be centered at the travel range of the PIA25.
cwright  (posted 2020-06-30 11:53:16.0)
Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Hello Ilya and thank you for your query. Once the clamping nut has been removed I can see no reason why PIA25 would not fit securely into the LNR25D and indeed we have used this combination during testing of the PIA. The neutral position (if you mean the midpoint of travel) would be at 13.5 mm of extension for the PIA25. I will contact you by email to share images from the solidworks assembly I put together to determine this.
Georgy Onishchukov  (posted 2019-05-23 14:27:00.387)
can PIA13 be used with KCB1P/M?
AManickavasagam  (posted 2019-05-24 11:41:09.0)
Response from Arunthathi at Thorlabs: Thanks for your query. Due to incompatible threading the PIA13 cannot be used with KCB1P/M. However, the PIA13 is compatible to use with KM100 or the KS1 if you are after beam steering application or aiming to use a parabolic mirror. We also have mounts with integrated Piezo inertia actuator such as the PIM1.
pprie  (posted 2018-08-20 10:16:39.317)
HI, i'am currently using PIAK10 with the KIM101 controler and the KM100 Mirror Mount. I have some question : First, if i move from 0 step to 128 steps for example, what will be the angular variation ? Second, I will probably need a closed-loop system, what device should i use with this current setup or which device should i replace ? Thanks
AManickavasagam  (posted 2018-08-21 04:40:14.0)
Response from Arunthathi at Thorlabs: Thanks for your query. The variance i.e the quoted per step tolerance is 20%, hence through the 128 steps this adds up and the angular variation would be ± 12.8 μrad Regarding the closed loop option you could consider to use an external encoder as unfortunately, at this time we do not have a solution that we could offer for such a system.
hnguyen43  (posted 2018-05-22 10:15:43.89)
What is the angular step for this actuator? Is the Thanks
rmiron  (posted 2018-05-24 05:08:09.0)
Response from Radu at Thorlabs: The drive screw of these actuators typically rotates by ~ 0.4 mrad per step. Naturally, as is the case for the linear motion, this angular step can vary by about 20% and can be adjusted by 30% in both directions by KIM101.
antoine.camper  (posted 2017-09-10 23:18:58.51)
I have a PIA3 and a KM100 mount like on the picture illustrating the use of the PIA13. However if I mount it as on the picture, the motor starts rotating on itself instead of the screw pushing on the mirror mount when I actuate the motor. This is because the motor is not tight to other part of the mount. Am I doing something wrong? Please give me a feedback.
awebber-date  (posted 2017-09-13 04:35:33.0)
Response from Alex at Thorlabs: I will get back to you directly to troubleshoot your issue.
nicolas.blind  (posted 2016-02-24 10:47:38.087)
I have two questions: - Are the motors PIA13 compatible with the 3-axis platform RBL13D ? - If yes, on the vertical axis, could they lift a mass of maximum 1kg ? Would it affect the positioning accuracy/repeatability? Thanks a lot
besembeson  (posted 2016-03-03 10:30:20.0)
Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: Yes it is compatible, and the accuracy/repeatability will not be affected provided the load specifications are respected. Maximum axial load for the PIA13 is 2.5kg. It will be less than this in a vertical configuration. We will contact you with this value.
user  (posted 2016-02-12 19:52:40.913)
Can you comment on the noise that these actuators generate. We use similar actuators in our lab right now and they have a high pitch sound which is very annoying. Did you fix this issue?
bwood  (posted 2016-02-15 06:13:30.0)
Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. These actuators will generate noise at a typical level of 60 to 70 dB. The noise generated by a given piezo inertial motor is intrinsic to the "slip-stick" mechanism of the device, due to the short pulse widths required. Please review the green box under the "Overview" tab for more information on the mechanism of these devices
user  (posted 2016-01-08 17:04:24.817)
is the piezo expanding or contracting during the ramping up of the voltage?
msoulby  (posted 2016-01-08 07:06:38.0)
Response from Mike at Thorlabs: The piezo reacts to a sawtooth voltage waveform, causing it to expand or contract. The waveform is asymmetric, slowly ramping up (expanding) to the specified voltage and then quickly dropping the voltage to zero (contracting) on a nanosecond timescale. When a slow electrical signal is applied the jaws will grip the lead screw and turn the lead screw due to high static friction. When the voltage is quickly dropped back to zero the piezo will contract rapidly, due to the inertia of the lead screw and low dynamic friction the lead screw will remain stationary. This process is repeated many times which will result in the lead screw moving in one direction in discrete steps. To reverse the direction of the lead screw the asymmetric signal is reversed.
Back to Top

Piezoelectric Inertia Actuators

Translation Stage with Piezo Inertia Motor
Click to Enlarge

Two XR25 Linear Stages in
an XY Configuration with a
PIA25 Actuator Attached
(Each Sold Separately)
Mirror Mount with Piezo Inertia Motors
Click to Enlarge

KM100 Ø1" Mirror Mount with PIAK10 Actuators Attached
(Each Sold Separately)
Mirror Mount with Piezo Inertia Motors
Click to Enlarge

KM05(/M) Ø1/2" Mirror Mount with MPIA10 Actuators Attached
(Each Sold Separately)
  • Actuators Provide High-Resolution Linear Motion in a Compact Package
  • Threaded Barrel Variants for Compatibility with Kinematic Mirror Mounts, Ø3/8" Barrel Versions for Translation Stages
  • KIM001 or KIM101 Controller Required for Operation (Sold Separately Below)

Our compact MPIA and PIA Series Piezoelectric Inertia Actuators are ideal for set-and-forget applications, particularly where space is limited. Their primary function is to set a relative position and hold; switching off power to the actuator will result in the same drift as the actuator's lead screw. These actuators are designed for use with our range of small positioning stages and optical mounts, and can provide nanometer resolution with long-term alignment stability. Manual adjustments can be made using the knob on the adjuster screw, as long as the piezo is not actively translating the screw; the knob is also compatible with 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex keys.

The control cable of PIA series actuators can be adjusted up to 110° for space-constrained applications (click here to Enlarge).

The "slip-stick" nature of this device uses very short pulse widths and continuous stepping of the actuator will result in an audible noise at a typical level of 60 to 70 dB.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
MPIA10 Support Documentation
MPIA10Customer Inspired! Mini Piezo Inertia Actuator, 10 mm Travel, 3/16"-100 Mounting Thread
$759.90
Lead Time
PIAK10 Support Documentation
PIAK10Piezo Inertia Actuator, 10 mm Travel, 1/4"-80 Mounting Thread
$604.66
7-10 Days
PIA13 Support Documentation
PIA13Piezo Inertia Actuator, 13 mm Travel, Ø3/8" Mounting Barrel
$604.66
Today
PIA25 Support Documentation
PIA25Piezo Inertia Actuator, 25 mm Travel, Ø3/8" Mounting Barrel
$604.66
Today
PIA50 Support Documentation
PIA50Piezo Inertia Actuator, 50 mm Travel, Ø3/8" Mounting Barrel
$604.66
Today
Back to Top

K-Cube™ Controllers for Piezo Inertia Stages and Actuators

Key Specificationsa
Item # KIM001 KIM101
Piezoelectric Outputs (SMC Male) One Four
Piezo Output Voltage 85 to 125 VDC 85 to 125 VDC per Channel
Top Panel Controls Scroll Wheel Dual-Axis Joystick
External Input
(SMA Female)
±10 V ± 2%
Input Power +15 VDC @ 2 A
Housing Dimensionsb
(W x D x H)
60.0 mm x 60.0 mm x 47.0 mm
(2.36" x 2.36" x 1.85")
121.0 mm x 60.0 mm x 47.0 mm
(4.76" x 2.36" x 1.85")
Compatible Software Kinesis Kinesis & Legacy APT
  • For complete specifications, please see the manuals by clicking the red Docs icons () below.
  • Not Including Mounting Plate
  • Compact Footprints
  • Adjustable Voltage Output from 85 V to 125 V
  • Single-Channel and Four-Channel Versions Available
  • Standalone Operation via Top Panel Controls and Display or PC Control via USB Plug and Play

These compact K-Cube Controllers provide easy manual and PC control of our piezo inertia stages, actuators, and optic mounts. They feature adjustable voltage output from 85 V to 125 V. The top panel display screen enables operation as soon as the unit is turned on, without the need for connection to a PC. Alternatively, both controllers have USB connectivity that provides 'Plug-and-Play' PC-controlled operation with our Kinesis® software package (included). These controllers can also be operated with our legacy APT™ (Advanced Positioning Technology) software package.

These units have small footprints and may be mounted directly to the optical table using the 1/4" (M6) counterbored slots in the base plate. Their compact size allows these controllers to be positioned close to the motorized system for added convenience when manually adjusting motor positions using the top panel controls. Tabletop operation also allows minimal drive cable lengths for easier cable management.

Please note that these controllers do not ship with a power supply. The compatible KPS201 power supply is sold below.

KIM001 Single-Channel Controller
This single-channel piezo inertia controller provides a voltage output for a single piezo inertia stage or actuator. The top panel features a spring-loaded scroll wheel for driving the stage or actuator as well as selecting menu options.

KIM101 Four-Channel Controller
This four-channel controller features four SMC outputs to drive piezo inertia devices. The channels can be controlled independently or simultaneously in pairs using the dual-axis joystick on the controller's top panel. The controller can be configured to operate up to four PD series piezo inertia stages, up to four PIA series piezo inertia actuators, or up to two PIM series piezo inertia optic mounts; one KIM101 can only concurrently drive devices that use the same "Select Stage" configuration in the controller's menu options (see the manuals for more details).

For more information, please see the full web presentation.

Power Supply Options
The KIM001 and KIM101 Motor Controllers do not ship with a power supply. A compatible power supply is our KPS201, sold below.

Note: Due to the nature of its design, and its non-linear high frequency switching, the KIM001 and KIM001 units are not compatible with the KCH301 and KCH601 hubs. Only use the KPS201 power supply unit.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
KIM001 Support Documentation
KIM001Customer Inspired! Single-Channel K-Cube Piezo Inertia Motor Controller (Power Supply Sold Separately)
$852.05
Today
KIM101 Support Documentation
KIM101Four-Channel K-Cube Piezo Inertia Motor Controller (Power Supply Sold Separately)
$1,207.66
Today
Back to Top

Compatible Power Supply

  • Power Supply Compatible with KIM001 and KIM101 Motor Controllers
  • Universal Input: 100 - 240 VAC
  • Region-Specific Adapter Plug Shipped with Power Supply

The KPS201 power supply outputs +15 VDC at up to 2.66 A and can power a single K-Cube or T-Cube with a 3.5 mm jack. It plugs into a standard wall outlet. One region-specific plug adapter, selectable at checkout, is included with each power supply.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
KPS201 Support Documentation
KPS20115 V, 2.66 A Power Supply Unit with 3.5 mm Jack Connector for One K- or T-Cube
$40.33
Today