Products Home / Manual Stages / Manual 1/2" (13 mm) Linear Translation Stages / Miniature Translation StagesMiniature Translation Stages
- 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel
- Single-Piece Construction
- X, XY, XZ, or XYZ Configurations
Stage Dimensions
T12X
X Configuration
M3 x 0.25
Stainless
Steel Adjuster
(5/64" [2 mm] Hex)
T12XZ
XZ Configuration
Breadboard
Mounting Plate
(T12B) Sold Separately
T12B
T12XYZ
XYZ Configuration
Application Idea
T12A1 Adapter Used to Attach an LMR1 Lens Mount to a T12XY Stage
Please Wait
| T12 Translation Stages | |
|---|---|
| Travel Range (per Axis) | 1/2" (12.7 mm) |
| Leadscrew Pitch | 0.25 mm |
| Dynamic Horizontal Load (Max) | 5 lbs (22 N) |
| Adjustment | 250 µm per Revolution |
| Straightness | 4 µm Over 1/2" Range |
| Parallelism | 3 µm Over 1/2" Range |
| Static Moment Ratings | |
| Roll | 2.2 N•m |
| Pitch | 1.4 N•m |
| Yaw | 1.2 N•m |
| Ball Bearing-Mechanism Manual Translation Stages |
|---|
| 1/4" (6 mm) Travel |
| 1/2" (13 mm) Travel |
| 1/2" (13 mm) Travel, Miniature |
| 1" (25 mm) Travel |
| 2" (50 mm) Travel |
Features
- 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel
- X, XY, XZ, and XYZ Versions
- 2-56 (M2) Mounting Holes
- #8 (M4) Counterbored and 8-32 (M4) Tapped Mounting Adapters Available
- Unibody Construction for Small Form Factor and Long-Term Stability
- Precision Recirculating Ball Bearing Design
Thorlabs' T12 Miniature Translation Stages consist of a hardened steel linear rail and recirculating ball bearing carriage that together provide precise linear motion and high load capacity. The compact form of this design has been achieved without sacrificing the precision of the translator. The combination of a miniature M3 x 0.25 stainless steel adjuster and phosphorous bronze mating nut provides 250 µm of displacement per revolution of the adjuster screw.
Unlike other linear stages, where multiple-axis stages are created using adapter plates, the T12 translation stages have a unibody construction. For example, the XY stage is constructed by machining the movable carriage of the first axis and the body of the second axis out of one part. This design leads to long-term stability and the most compact form with the perpendicularity of the various axes being fixed and accurate. This approach is used for all the configurations offered.
Four 2-56 (M2) mounting holes are provided on the top surface of these stages. Breadboard mounting is best accomplished using the T12B Breadboard Mounting Plate, sold below. For mounting components to the top of the stage, we offer the T12A1 and T12A2(/M) adapter plates, both of which are sold below. The T12A1 adapter has a counterbored mounting hole for 8-32 or M4 cap screws, while the T12A2(/M) adapter has a tapped mounting hole for 8-32 (M4) cap screws.
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Figure 2.2 T12XYZ Packaging
| Table 2.1 Products with Re-Engineered Packaging | ||
|---|---|---|
| Item # | % Weight Reduction |
CO2-Equivalent Reductiona |
| T12XYZ | 32.66% | 0.81 kg |
| T12XYZ/M | 32.66% | 2.13 kg |
| T12X | 47.75% | 2.00 kg |
| T12X/M | 47.75% | 3.56 kg |
| T12XZ | 55.95% | 0.61 kg |
| T12XZ/M | 55.95% | 0.81 kg |
Smart Pack
- Reduce Weight of Packaging Materials
- Increase Usage of Recyclable Packing Materials
- Improve Packing Integrity
- Decrease Shipping Costs
Thorlabs' Smart Pack Initiative is aimed at waste minimization while still maintaining adequate protection for our products. By eliminating any unnecessary packaging, implementing packaging design changes, and utilizing eco-friendly packaging materials for our customers when possible, this initiative seeks to improve the environmental impact of our product packaging. Products listed in Table 2.1 are now shipped in re-engineered packaging that minimizes the weight and the use of non-recyclable materials.b As we move through our product line, we will indicate re-engineered packages with our Smart Pack logo.
| Posted Comments: | |
Igor Konieczniak
(posted 2020-03-02 10:26:58.37) Hello,
Would you please confirm that the T12XY stage has locking screws on its sides to fix its position once its translation is decided? I couldn't find this info nowhere in its pages.
Cheers,
Igor llamb
(posted 2020-03-02 02:13:39.0) Hello Igor, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The T12- series of miniature translation stages do not have locking screws. If you are considering a 1/2" travel stage with a locking screw, then perhaps our MT1 or DT12 stages might be better suited. matthew.bolcar
(posted 2013-03-11 16:00:51.447) I'm curious about how, or what, you might mount to the T12X stage. #2-56 is a very non-standard thread size for optical components. It would be very beneficial to have a #8-32 tapped hole on both sides of this stage, or perhaps an adapter plate for either #8-32 or even 1/4-20 tapped holes. tcohen
(posted 2013-03-20 10:43:00.0) Response from Tim at Thorlabs: Thank you for your request. We used to offer this adapter plate but due to low requests we stopped carrying it. We will look to reintroduce this product. jlow
(posted 2012-11-13 11:53:00.0) Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: The spring used in the T12X has a spring constant of 0.84 lb/in. The initial tension is about 0.04 lbs. At its minimum extension within the T12X, the spring displacement is about 0.176" from the free length. The spring force should be linear for the full translation range. Please note that we use 2 of this spring in the construction of the T12X. apterk
(posted 2012-11-02 00:04:17.727) Hello,
I am trying to measure the force the T12X is exerting on a specimen by measuring the displacement of the T12x before and after the T12X is under a load.
What is the spring force in the T12X. Is the spring linear? If the spring is linear, under what range? Does the spring have an initial displacement?
Thanks. jlow
(posted 2012-08-01 12:54:00.0) A response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: The T12XY/M does not have a locking feature. I don’t have an actual value for how vibration sensitive this mount is. The preloaded spring force for these stages is around 0.4 lbs so it should hold up well against small vibrations. jnesbitt
(posted 2012-07-27 13:32:28.0) I was wondering if the T12XY/M stages had a locking feature? If not how sensitive to vibrations is it? tcohen
(posted 2012-05-23 20:23:00.0) Response from Tim at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. At this time, we do not have angle brackets compatible for the T12XZ. I would like to talk to you to discuss your application and have contacted you directly to see what we can provide that will fill your immediate needs. sun
(posted 2012-05-23 12:35:28.0) any feedback to my question on 5/18? Thanks! sun
(posted 2012-05-18 20:46:24.0) Do you have any right-angle bracket or similar parts that can work with this mini T12XZ stage? The 0.42" pitch and 2-56 hole is too small for any of your bracket including the Mini-Series MSAP90. Thank you! jjurado
(posted 2011-05-09 13:52:00.0) Response from Javier at Thorlabs to kchev: Thank you very much for your feedback. We have not implemented any changes to these stages recently. I will contact you directly to discuss the requirements of you application so that we can devise a solution for you. kchev
(posted 2011-05-09 10:47:47.0) Hello, have you found any solution for the big clearance? Im also disappointed about that for the T12XYZ stages I recently bought. jjurado
(posted 2011-03-24 11:29:00.0) Response from Javier at Thorlabs to albertaszukauskas: I will contact you directly to help you troubleshoot the assembly of this stage. albertaszukauskas
(posted 2011-03-24 10:36:25.0) i have separated all the parts of T12X translation stages and when i conect everything as it was, the translation stage is not working anymore, do you have any ideas, what i have made wrong? jjurado
(posted 2011-03-23 16:20:00.0) Response from Javier at Thorlabs to chris_coleman: Thank you for submitting your inquiry. The current design of the T12XYZ does not allow for an easy conversion to a left-handed form. The bottom assembly of the xyz mount would have to be redesigned. I will contact you directly for further assistance. chris_coleman
(posted 2011-03-23 13:11:07.0) The T12XYZ 3-axis stage is always shown as a right-handed version; can it be converted into a left-handed version? c.prevost
(posted 2010-11-05 18:26:15.0) RE: T23X/M minature stage
Need allowable moment rating. most interested in the pitch rating.
Thanks,
Chuck apalmentieri
(posted 2010-02-03 09:38:22.0) A response from Adam at Thorlabs to Olivier: I am sorry to hear about your disappointment. To help improve our product line, I would like to discuss this problem with you directly to help determine the most suitable solution. olivier.theobald
(posted 2010-02-03 06:49:22.0) I bought 2 XY Tables and i am very disapointed for there is a too much clearance. |
Manual Linear Translation Stages
Thorlabs' manual translation stages are offered in a range of maximum travel distances, from less than 1/4" (6 mm) to 2" (50 mm) and longer for our long travel, large area platforms. Many of these stages can be ordered in multi-axis configurations, providing XY or XYZ translation. For fiber coupling applications, please see our Multi-Axis Stages, which offer finer adjustment than our standard manual translation stages. In addition to linear translation stages, we offer rotation stages, pitch and yaw platforms, and goniometers. We also offer motorized translation stages that are powered by DC Servo motors, stepper motors, or direct drive technology.
Crossed-Roller Bearing Stages
These linear translation stages feature crossed-roller bearing travel mechanisms for precision motion, high load capacity, and low angular deviation. The LNR Series stages feature all-steel body construction, while the LX, XRN, and XR Series stage bodies are constructed of cast tool and jig aluminum. We also offer several vertical crossed-roller bearing stages (see Table 140E).
| Table 140A Crossed-Roller Bearing Stages | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Family | LNR Series 25 mm Stages |
LX Series 25 mm Stages |
XRN Series 25 mm Stages |
XR Series 25 mm Stages |
XR Series 50 mm Stages |
LNR Series 50.8 mm Stages |
| Click Photo to Enlarge |
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| Travel | 25 mm (0.98") | 25 mm (0.98") | 25 mm (0.98") | 25 mm (0.98") | 50 mm (1.97") | 50.8 mm (2") |
| Drive Type | Multiple | Micrometer | Micrometer | Micrometer | Micrometer | Multiple |
| Platform Size | 2.34" x 2.36" (59.4 mm x 60.0 mm) |
2.56" x 2.56" (65.0 mm x 65.0 mm) |
2.00" x 3.35" (50.7 mm x 85.0 mm) |
2.98" x 4.33" (75.7 mm x 110.0 mm) |
2.98" x 5.51" (75.7 mm x 140.0 mm) |
3.94" x 3.94" (100.0 mm x 100.0 mm) |
| Possible Axis Configurations |
X, XZ, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XZ, YZ, XYZ | X, Y, Z, XY, XZ, YZ, XYZ | X, Y, Z, XY, XZ, YZ, XYZ | X, Y, Z, XY, XZ, YZ, XYZ | X, XY, XYZ |
| Additional Details | ||||||
Ball Bearing Stages
These translation stages feature hardened steel linear bearings for precise motion and long life. They are available with a variety of actuators and in single-axis or preassembled multi-axis configurations.
| Table 140B Ball Bearing Stages | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Family | MS Series 1/4" Stages | T12 Series 1/2" Stages | MT Series 1/2" Stages | PT Series 1" Stages | LT Series 2" Stages |
| Click Photo to Enlarge |  |
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| Travel | 1/4" (6.4 mm) | 1/2" (12.7 mm) | 1/2" (12.7 mm) | 1" (25.4 mm) | 2" (50 mm) |
| Drive Type | Multiple | Thumbscrew | Multiple | Multiple | Differential Micrometer |
| Platform Size | 1.17" x 1.17" (29.7 mm x 29.7 mm) |
0.76" x 0.81" (19.3 mm x 20.6 mm) |
2.40" x 2.41" (61.0 mm x 61.2 mm) |
3.00" x 4.00" (76.2 mm x 101.6 mm) |
3.75" x 3.75" (95.3 mm x 95.3 mm) |
| Possible Axis Configurations | X, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XYZ |
| Additional Details | |||||
Dovetail Stages
These compact stages incorporate dovetails and a leadscrew for the translation mechanism. They are suitable in general purpose motion control applications.
| Table 140C Dovetail Stages | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Product Family | DT Series 1/2" Stages | DTS Series 1" Stages (Vacuum-Compatible Version Available) |
DTS Series 2" Stage |
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| Travel | 1/2" (12.7 mm) | 1" (25 mm) | 2" (50 mm) |
| Drive Type | Thumbscrew | Thumbscrew | Thumbscrew |
| Platform Size | 1.00" x 1.00" (25.4 mm x 25.4 mm) | 2.68" x 2.95" (68.0 mm 75.0 mm) | 2.68" x 3.74" (68.0 mm x 95.0 mm) |
| Possible Axis Configurations | X, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XYZa | X, XY, XYZ |
| Additional Details | |||
Flexure Stages
Thorlabs' Nanoflex™ translation stages feature frictionless flexure mechanisms for improved positioning and resolution when compared to similar stages made using bearings. The translation of the stage is accomplished by the elastic deformation (flexing) of a linkage attached to the mounting platform. Most models also include piezo actuators for small position adjustments.
| Table 140D Flexure Stages | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Family | Nanoflex™ 1.5 mm Stage | Nanoflex™ 5 mm Stages | ||
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| Travel | 1.5 mm (0.06") + 25 µm Piezo | 5 mm (0.20") | 5 mm (0.20") + 20 µm Piezo | |
| Drive Type | Thumbscrew and Piezo Actuator | Differential Micrometer | Differential Micrometer and Open-Loop Piezo Actuator |
Differential Micrometer and Closed-Loop Piezo Actuator |
| Platform Size | 1.18" x 1.18" (30.0 mm x 30.0 mm) | 2.95" x 2.95" (75.0 mm x 75.0 mm) | ||
| Possible Axis Configurations | X, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XYZ | X, XY, XYZ |
| Additional Details | ||||
Vertical Stages
We offer vertical translation stages with crossed-roller bearings for precise motion as well as long travel vertical stages for heavy-duty applications.
| Table 140E Vertical Stages | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Family | XRN Series 9 mm Vertical Stage |
XR Series 14 mm Vertical Stage |
MVS Series 1/2" Vertical Stage |
MVS Series 1" Vertical Stage |
VAP Series 4" Vertical Stage |
VAP Series 10" Vertical Stage |
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| Travel | 9.0 mm (0.35") | 14.0 mm (0.55") | 1/2" (13.0 mm) | 1" (25.0 mm) | 4" (101.6 mm) | 10" (254 mm) |
| Drive Type | Worm-Gear Driven Lift Screw | Micrometer | Adjuster Knob and Coarse Manual Positioning | |||
| Platform Size | 2.00" x 2.00" (50.7 mm x 50.7 mm) |
2.98" x 2.98" (75.7 mm x 75.7 mm) |
2.36" x 2.36" (60.0 mm x 60.0 mm) | 3.00" x 6.00" (76.2 mm 152.4 mm) | ||
| Additional Details | ||||||
Zoom
- One-Axis Translation
- 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel
The T12X model is a one-axis translator. This stage features unibody construction, low drift, and smooth motion over the entire 1/2" travel range.
Zoom
- Two-Axis Translator
- XY Configuration
- 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel
The T12XY is a compact, two-axis stage built from only three main components. The perpendicularity between the two axes of motion is set by machining the movable carriage of the first axis and the body of the second axis out of one part. This design approach minimizes the overall size of the translator while ensuring the long-term stability and perpendicularity of the two axes of motion.
Zoom
- Two-Axis Translator
- XZ Configuration
- 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel
The T12XZ is a compact, two-axis stage built from only three main components. The perpendicularity between the two axes of motion is set by machining the movable carriage of the first axis and the body of the second axis out of one part. The one-piece construction of the vertical support minimizes the overall size of the translator while ensuring the long-term stability and perpendicularity of the two axes of motion.
Zoom
- Three-Axis Translator
- XYZ Configuration
- 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel
The T12XYZ translator is a compact, three-axis stage built from only four main components. The perpendicularity between the three axes of motion is set by machining the movable carriage of the one axis and the body of the next axis out of one part. This design approach minimizes the overall size of the translator while ensuring the long-term stability and perpendicularity of the two axes of motion.
Zoom
- Mounts to Imperial and Metric T12 Series Stages via #8 (M4) Counterbore
- 1/4" (M6) Counterbored Slots for Attaching Plate to Imperial or Metric Optical Tables
- Four Holes for 2 mm Alignment Pins
The T12B is a universal base plate with counterbored slots on either side that enable obstruction-free mounting of our T12 Series Translation Stages onto an optical breadboard. The T12 translation stage is secured to the mounting plate using an 8-32 or M4 cap screw (one of each is included).
Zoom
Click to Enlarge
Figure G6.1 T12A2 Adapter on a T12XY Stage
- Attach to T12 Stages via four Counterbored #2 (M2) Holes
- Mount Components with #8 (M4) Counterbore or 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
These adapter plates attach to a T12 translation stage and provide the ability to mount standard optomechanical components. The adapters are secured to a T12 stage using four counterbored holes for #2 (M2) cap screws. The T12A1 has a counterbore for #8 or M4 cap screws that is ideal for mounting components with a tapped mounting hole. When using this adapter, the screw in the counterbored mounting hole must be installed before the adapter is attached to the translation stage. Alternatively, the T12A2(/M) has a tapped 8-32 (M4) hole for attaching parts with a counterbored hole to a T12 stage. The T12A2 includes four 2-56 cap screws, the T12A2/M includes four M2 cap screws, and the T12A1 includes four 2-56 and four M2 cap screws.
Mini-Stage, Ball Bearing Mechanism