NFL5 Series NanoFlex Translation Stages

• Differential Micrometer Drive
• Open & Closed Loop Piezo Options
• 5 mm Travel
• Compact Size: 3.00" (75 mm) Square, 1.18" (30 mm) Thick
• XYZ-Configurable
• All Cables are Included

When stability is of the utmost importance, the NanoFlex™ 5 mm travel single-axis compound flexure stages provide ultra smooth translation for applications that are intolerant to the errors inherent in linear bearings. The compound linear symmetrical flexure design ensures true linear motion with zero cross talk over the full range of translation. This is achieved without the use of parts that require controlled contact to maintain their function; all the motion results from the flexing of various structural components within the translator. These features provide uncompromised performance, even when used in harsh environments.

These stages can be stacked in XY, XZ, or XYZ configurations using the optional base plate NFL5P1(/M) and angle bracket NFL5P2(/M) described below. A 3 m long piezo drive cable (SMC to SMC) as well as a 3 m long feedback cable (Lemo to Lemo) are supplied where applicable. See the Pin Diagrams tab for connector details.

See the Specs tab above for more detailed information including compatible controllers. We offer stages bundled with controllers at a discounted price below. Please see the Drawings & Documents tab for mechanical drawings of the stages.

TPZNFL5(/M) Bundle

The TPZNFL5 (/M) bundle includes the NFL5DP20 stage, TPZ001 T-Cube piezo controller, piezo drive cable, and NFL5P1 (/M) mounting plate. The stage provides 0.20" (5 mm) of total translation via a micrometer. For finer adjustment, the piezo drive offers 20 µm of translation with 20 nm resolution. Please see the Drawings & Documents tab for mechanical drawings of the NFL5DP20 (/M).

T-Cube Piezo Controller

The TPZ001 can be controlled by its top panel for standalone operation or through its PC interface. The TPZ001 connects to a PC via a mini USB port and utilizes Thorlabs' apt™ software. The apt™ software features an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) that allows the unit to be controlled completely a PC. For more demanding applications, customers can utilize ActiveX^® programming to create their own software for Thorlabs' line of T-Cubes.

Power Supplies

The TPZ001 comes without a power supply as our customers have varying needs. Please see the recommended power supplies listed in the price box below.

TSGNFL5(/M) Bundle

The TSGNFL5 (/M) bundle includes the NFL5DP20S stage, TPZ001 T-Cube piezo controller, TSG001 T-Cube strain gauge reader, NFL5P1(/M) base plate, and piezo drive and feedback cables. The stage provides 0.20" (5 mm) of full translation via a micrometer, but a piezo provides finer adjustments over a shorter travel range. The piezo drive offers 20 µm of travel and, when operated in closed loop, provides 10 nm resolution. The same translation stage when used in open-loop is only able to achieve 20 nm resolution, so closed-loop operation is a necessity for more sensitive applications. Please see the Drawings & Documents tab for mechanical drawings of the NFL5DP20S(/M).

T-Cube Piezo Controller

The TPZ001 can be controlled by its top panel for standalone operation or through its PC interface. The TPZ001 connects to a PC via a mini USB port and utilizes Thorlabs' apt™ software. The apt™ software features an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) that allows the unit to be controlled completely by a PC. For more demanding applications, customers can utilize ActiveX^® programming to create their own software for Thorlabs' line of T-Cubes.

T-Cube Strain Gauge Reader

The TSG001 T-Cube strain gauge reader provides feedback to the TPZ001 piezo driver. This allows for closed-loop operation of the stage for increased resolution. Like the TPZ001, the unit can be used with or without a PC. The top of the unit features a digital readout of the strain on the piezo. When connected via USB to a PC, the apt™ software can be used to control the unit.

Power Supplies

The TPZ001 and TSG001 come without power supplies as our customers have varying needs. When both T-Cubes are mounted on the TCH002 hub, the TSG001 provides feedback to the TPZ001 through the hub, thus eliminating the need for an additional wire connecting the two T-Cubes. Please see the recommended power supplies listed in the price box below.