1" (25 mm) Travel Motorized Actuators

• Compact, Bi-Polar Stepper Motor Actuator: 88.5 mm (3.48") Long when Fully Retracted
• Manual Adjustment via Rear-Located Thumbscrew
• Non-Rotating Drive Tip
• Compatible with Stages and Mounts that Accept Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) Barrels
• Also Available in 6 mm and 13 mm Travel Versions

Our ZFS25B Actuator provides smooth, precise linear motion control in a sleek, compact package measuring just 88.5 mm (3.48") in length when fully retracted. This compact profile reduces the distance between the end of the actuator and optomechanical components, keeping the center of mass closer to the contact point than the ZST225B actuator.

Powered by a small-diameter, dual-phase stepper motor, this actuator operates at speeds of up to 2.0 mm/s. The non-rotating drive tip reduces wear and friction and improves smoothness of motion by removing rotational contact at the tip. If power is not supplied to the actuator, manual adjustment is accomplished using the rear-located thumbscrew. The actuator motor can be damaged if this thumbscrew is rotated while power is being supplied. Mounting is accomplished via a standard Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) barrel.

The ZFS25B Motorized Actuator uses a stepper motor that provides sufficient torque for loads up to 40 N (8.99 lb). The actuator allows very small step sizes over the entire travel range, delivering greater flexibility with low (<15 µm) backlash and fine resolution. The design incorporates a 400:9 gear reduction head which, when combined with the 49 152 microsteps per revolution offered by the KST201 stepper motor driver, gives a theoretical travel per microstep of 0.46 nm (see the Calculations tab for details).

Hall effect limit switches prevent the unit from being overdriven and provide homing capability with an accuracy of <5.0 μm. The ZFS25B ships with 0.6 m (2 ft) of cable terminated in a 15-pin D-Type connector (see the Pin Diagrams tab) that is compatible with our KST201 stepper motor controller. A 1 m (3.3 ft) extension cable (PAA614) is available separately.

The ZFS25B has a standard Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) mounting barrel for fastening into any application compatible with our precision micrometer heads, like the PT1 Single-Axis Translation Stage or the PT3 Three-Axis Translation Stage. The manual adjuster of the LNR25 stage in the photo below was replaced with a ZFS25B motorized actuator.

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Required Controller:
KST201

• 49 152 Microsteps per Revolution
• 15 V Output at 12 W
• Trapezoidal and
  'S-Curve' Velocity Profiles

• Non-Rotating Drive Tip
• Bi-Polar Stepper Motor Actuator: 150.5 mm (5.93") Long
• Compatible with Stages and Mounts that Accept Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) Barrels
• Also Available in 6 mm and 13 mm Travel Versions

The ZST225B Actuator provides smooth, precise linear motion control in a package measuring 150.5 mm (5.93") in length. Powered by a small-diameter, dual-phase stepper motor, this actuator operates at speeds of up to 2.0 mm/s. The non-rotating drive tip reduces wear and friction and improves smoothness of motion by removing rotational contact at the tip. Mounting is via a standard Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) barrel.

This actuator uses a stepper motor that provides sufficient torque for loads up to 40 N (8.99 lb). It allows very small step sizes over the entire travel range, delivering greater flexibility with low (<15 µm) backlash and fine resolution. The design incorporates a 41:1 gear reduction head which, when combined with the 49 152 microsteps per revolution offered by the KST201 stepper motor driver, gives a theoretical travel per microstep of 0.5 nm (see the Calculations tab for details).

Hall effect limit switches prevent the unit from being overdriven and provide homing capability with an accuracy of <5.0 μm. The ZST225B ships with 0.6 m (2 ft) of cable terminated in a 15-pin D-Type connector that is compatible with our KST201 stepper motor controller. A 1 m (3.3 ft) extension cable (PAA614) is available separately.

The ZST225B has a standard Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) mounting barrel for fastening into any application compatible with our precision micrometer heads, like the PT1 Single-Axis Translation Stage or the PT3 Three-Axis Translation Stage.

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Required Controller:
KST201

• 49 152 Microsteps per Revolution
• 15 V Output at 12 W
• Trapezoidal and
  'S-Curve' Velocity Profiles

• Compatible with LNR50 TravelMax™ Stages
• ±1.6 µm Unidirectional Repeatability
• Maximum Pushing Force: 180 N
• Preload to Eliminate Backlash
• Non-Rotating Tip
• 50 mm Travel Version Also Available

The DRV225 Trapezoidal Stepper Motor Drive offers 25 mm (0.98") of travel and a unidirectional repeatability of ±1.6 μm. When used with one of our stepper motor controllers, this actuator can achieve a theoretical minimum step size of 2.4 nm and a maximum speed of 50 mm/s.

The hybrid stepper motor, with its rotor that consists of 50 individual magnetic teeth, is ideally suited for microstepping applications. Its 200 full steps per revolution are further broken down into 409 600 microsteps. In addition to the resulting increase in resolution, microstepping produces smoother low-speed motion by allowing the discrete 1.8° step size to be reduced to much smaller steps with inherently lower vibrational noise.

The DRV225 stepper motor drive is equipped with a trapezoidal screw thread for more efficient high-load operation than is available from standard threading.

This actuator is compatible with our 2" TravelMax manual stages. To use the DRV225 with these stages, mount the motor to the side of the stage using two 40 mm long M4 cap screws (included).

A 500 mm (19.7") cable with a 15-pin D-type connector is attached to the unit to connect the stepper motor to a controller. The unit also comes with a 3 m (9.8 ft) extension cable (item # PAA613). If a shorter cable is needed, the 1 m (3.3 ft) PAA612 cable is available separately.

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Recommended Controllers:
BSC201, BSC202, or BSC203

• 409 600 Microsteps per Revolution
• 48 V Output at 25 W
• Trapezoidal and
  'S-Curve' Velocity Profiles

• 6 VDC Servo Actuator
• Sub-Micron Resolution
• Maximum Speed: 2.6 mm/s
• Drop-In Replacement for Most 25 mm Manual Actuators
• Compatible with Stages and Mounts that Accept Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) Barrels
• Limit Switches for Zero Datum and Actuator Protection
• Also Available in 6 mm and 12 mm Travel Versions

Our Z9 Series Motorized Actuators are engineered for use with optical positioning devices. They offer high resolution in a lightweight package, which makes these actuators ideally suited for demanding optical laboratory automation applications. The Z925B delivers 25 mm of travel.

Commercial limit switches have been added to provide overdrive protection and accurate home positioning. The incorporated motor is capable of speeds up to 2.6 mm/s, but a maximum speed of 2.3 mm/s is recommended in order to maintain the specified control. The precision of the encoder (512 counts/rev) results in a minimum resolution of about 29 nm (see the Calculations tab for more information).

The Z925B has been designed specifically to replace the manual adjusters in stages and mirror mounts that have a Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) barrel clamp, like the PT1 Single-Axis Translation Stage or the PT3 Three-Axis Translation Stage.

To install, remove the existing manual adjuster from the mount, and fit the replacement Z9 Actuator. The image below shows a PT3 three-axis stage with a Z925B fitted to one of the axes.

The units are shipped with one 485.0 mm (19.09") cable. A 2.5 m (8') extension cable (Item # PAA632) is available separately.

For applications with different travel requirements, please see our 6 mm Z906 and 12 mm Z912 actuators. We also offer the Z925BV vacuum-compatible version (sold below), which is rated for use down to 10^-6 Torr and is shipped with a 485.0 mm flat ribbon cable, IDC connector, and a converter cable for use with our KDC101 controller.

The KDC101 DC Servo Controller is the required driver for the Z9 series actuators. The latest version of the Kinesis software can be downloaded here. Firmware version 2.2.8 or higher, included in the Kinesis software version 1.14.40 or higher download, is required for using the KDC101 with the Z9 actuators. Prior versions of firmware will operate the Z9 actuators but will call the actuators Z8.

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Required Controller:
KDC101

• 34 555 Encoder Counts per Revolution
• 15 V Output at 2.5 W
• Trapezoidal Velocity Profile

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1" XYZ translation stage with a Z925B motorized actuator replacing the manual adjuster.

• Servo Actuator
• Sub-Micron Resolution
• Maximum Operating Speed 2.6 mm/s
• Drop-In Replacement for Most 25 mm Manual Actuators
• Compatible with Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) Barrel-Fitting Stages and Mounts
• Limit Switches for Zero Datum and Actuator Protection
• Rated Down To 10^-6 Torr
• Also Available in 6 mm and 12 mm Travel Versions

The Z925BV actuator offers features and specifications similar to the Z925B actuator described above with the added benefit of being vacuum compatible down to 10^-6 Torr. They incorporate vacuum-rated servo motors, a phosphorus bronze internal coupling mechanism and mounting bush, and high-vacuum grease.

These actuators are shipped with a 485.0 mm (19.09") vacuum-compatible flat ribbon cable with an IDC connector. A converter cable for use with the KDC101 controller is also supplied, but it is not vacuum compatible and should only be used outside the chamber.

The Z925BV has been designed specifically to replace the manual adjusters in stages and mirror mounts that have a Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) barrel clamp, such as the PT1 Single-Axis Translation Stage or the PT3 Three-Axis Translation Stage.

To install, remove the existing manual adjuster from the mount, and fit the replacement Z9 Actuator. The photo below shows a Z925BV fitted to a custom vacuum-compatible LNR25M stage. For information about ordering vacuum-compatible versions of our stages, please contact Tech Sales. For applications with different travel requirements, please see our 6 mm Z906V and 12 mm Z912V and Z912BV actuators.

The KDC101 DC Servo Controller is the required driver for the Z9 series actuators. The latest version of the Kinesis software can be downloaded here. Firmware version 2.2.8 or higher and Kinesis software version 1.14.44 or higher are required for using the KDC101 with the Z9 vacuum-compatible actuators.

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Required Controller:
KDC101

• 34 555 Encoder Counts per Revolution
• 15 V Output at 2.5 W
• Trapezoidal Velocity Profile

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Custom vacuum-compatible LNR25 series stages can be ordered for use with Z925BV actuators.

• Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) Mounting Barrel for Compatibility with Translation Stages
• Compact Design: 31.5 mm x 17.0 mm (W x H)
• Manual Adjustment via Knob on Adjuster Screw
• 125 V Maximum Operating Voltage
• Also Available in 13 mm and 50 mm Travel Versions
• Ideal for Set-and-Hold Applications that Require High-Resolution Relative Positioning
• Control Cable can be Adjusted up to 110° for Space-Constrained Applications

Thorlabs' PIA25 Piezoelectric Inertia Actuator provides high-resolution linear motion control with a long piezo-controlled translation range in a compact package. It can support loads up to 2.5 kg (5.51 lbs) and preloads up to 25 N with typical step size ranging from 10 nm to 30 nm and no backlash. The step size can be adjusted up to 30% to a maximum of approximately 30 nm using the KIM101 Controller and Kinesis^® software. 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.

This actuator has a Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) barrel that can be mounted in a manual stage that has a Ø3/8" mounting clamp. For compatibility with 1/4"-80 or 3/16"-100 threaded mirror mounts see our 10 mm travel piezo inertia actuators. The actuator is self-locking when at rest and when there is no power supplied to the piezo, making the actuator 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 a 10 mm long discrete piezo stack, the actuator can operate at speeds of up to 3.6 mm/min. The design of the piezo motor will rotate the tip of the lead screw during translation. For information on the design of our piezo inertia "slip-stick" motor actuators, please see the complete presentation here.

Required Controller
A KIM001 or KIM101 controller is required to operate our PIA25 Piezo Inertia Actuator; the actuator cannot be operated 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. The KIM001 and KIM101 controllers offer one and four output channels, respectively.

For more information, please see the full web presentation here.

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Required Controller:
KIM001 or KIM101

• KIM001: Single-Channel Output
• KIM101: Four Output Channels, Capable of Multi-Channel Operation
• Standalone Control via Top Panel or PC-Control via USB
• Voltage Output from 85 V to 125 V

Click for Details
The control cable can be adjusted up to 110° for space-constrained applications.

• Compact Design: 31.5 mm x 17.0 mm (W x H)
• 20 nm Typical Step Size
• Manual Adjustment via Knob on Adjuster Screw
• Rated Down to 10^-6 Torr
• 125 V Maximum Operating Voltage
• Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) Mounting Barrel for Compatibility with Translation Stages
• Ideal for Set-and-Hold Applications that Require High-Resolution Relative Positioning
• Also Available in 13 mm and 50 mm Travel Versions

Click for Details
The flying lead can be adjusted up to 110° for space-constrained applications.

Thorlabs' PIA25VF Vacuum-Compatible Piezoelectric Inertia Actuator is rated down to 10^-6 Torr operation and provides high-resolution linear motion control with a long piezo-controlled translation range in a compact, vacuum-compatible package. It can support loads up to 2.5 kg and preloads up to 25 N with typical step size ranging from 10 nm to 30 nm and no backlash. The step size can be adjusted up to 30% to a maximum of approximately 30 nm using the KIM101 Controller and Kinesis^® software. 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.

This actuator has a Ø3/8" (Ø9.525 mm) barrel that can be mounted in a manual stage that has a Ø3/8" mounting clamp. For compatibility with 1/4"-100 threaded mirror mounts see our 10 mm travel piezo inertia actuators. The actuator is self-locking when at rest and when there is no power supplied to the piezo, making the actuator 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.

Each actuator has an integrated 0.75 m flying lead, plus 1.0 m of cored cable for wiring outside the vacuum chamber. The flying leads and cored cable lengths can be cut down as needed, but the total length (inside and outside) should not exceed 2.0 m. As shown in the image above, the flying lead for each actuator can be rotated up to 110° for space-constrained applications.

Powered by a 10 mm long discrete piezo stack, the actuator can operate at speeds of up to 3.6 mm/minute. The design of the piezo motor will rotate the tip of the lead screw during translation. For information on the design of this piezo inertia "slip-stick" motor actuator, please see the complete presentation here.

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PIA25VF Inertia Actuator Used in Place of the Micrometer in our LNR25M(/M) Translation Stage (Contact Tech Sales to Request a Vacuum-Compatible Version of the Stage)

Required Controller
A KIM001 or KIM101 controller is required to operate our PIA25VF Piezo Inertia Actuator; the actuator cannot be operated 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. The KIM001 and KIM101 controllers offer one and four output channels, respectively.

For more information, please see the full web presentation here.

Click to Enlarge

Required Controller:
KIM001 or KIM101

• KIM001: Single-Channel Output
• KIM101: Four Output Channels, Capable of Multi-Channel Operation
• Standalone Control via Top Panel or PC Control via USB
• Voltage Output from 85 V to 125 V

• 1.5 cc Syringe of Apiezon 100 Grease
• Convenient, Inexpensive Package that Reduces Waste
• Prolongs Lifetime of Actuator
• Ready to Dispense
• Vacuum Compatible to 10^-9 Torr

This Apiezon grease has excellent anti-seize properties. It contains PTFE for maximum lubricity and is ideal for re-lubricating the lead screw threads of our ZST, ZFS, and Z9 series actuators. It is supplied in a syringe for easy application and is recommended both for general use and for vacuum applications down to 10^-9 Torr. It has an optimal working range of 10 to 30 °C (50 to 86 °F).

Note: It is recommended that the lead screw and end ball of the Z9, ZFS, and ZST actuators are lubricated every 10 000 cycles or whenever a squeaking noise is heard during motion.

Thorlabs' DRV, ZST, and ZFS Stepper Motor Actuators, as well as our Z9 DC Servo Motor Actuators, come with cables for connecting to the required controllers. Thorlabs also offers separate cables that may be used as extension cables.

Stepper Motor Cables
Thorlabs offers a variety of cables to support several stepper motor actuator and controller combinations. Supported stepper motors include our ZST, ZFS, and DRV actuators; supported controllers include our BSC benchtop controllers, our KST201 K-Cube™ Controller, and our MST602 Rack Control Module. In order to see which cable is compatible with a given combination of stepper motor and controller, please see the table below. The pin assignment for each cable is given in the full web presentation here. Please note that these cables cannot be used with motors and controllers that do not match their pin assignment, even if the connectors are the same.

DC Motor Cables
The PAA632 is a 2.5 m cable for our Z9 series of DC motor actuators. This cable is intended to be used with the KDC101 K-Cube DC Servo Motor Controller. The pin assignment for this cable is given in the full web presentation here. Although it uses a 15-pin connector, this cable is not compatible with any of our stepper motors.

KST201 K-Cube Controller BSC Benchtop Controller and MST602 Rack Controller KDC101 K-Cube Controllera PAA614 (1 m) - - ZST and ZFS Stepper Motor Actuator PAA614 (1 m)b PAA612 (1 m) or PAA613 (3 m) - DRV Series Stepper Motor Actuatorb - - PAA632 (2.5 m) Z9 DC Servo Motor Actuator Green shading indicates hardware for DC servo motors. The KST201 K-Cube Controller can be used to drive our DRV225 or DRV250 Stepper Motor Actuators at reduced speed; it is not compatible with the DRV208 actuator.