Fast Microscope Automation Piezo-Z-Stage Speeds up 3D-Imaging

PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P., the inventor of high-speed Piezo-Z objective steppers, introduces the new P-737 PIFOC^® Piezo-Z Stage, the highest performance nanopositioning Z control system on the market.

The P-737 specimen Z-stage is a new member in a large family of products for microscope automation. Specifically designed for biotech research microscopes utilizing deconvolution and 3D imaging techniques, the P-737 PIFOC^® specimen Z-stage features up to 250 µm travel, millisecond responsiveness and nanometer precise motion under closed-loop control.

Piezo Z-Stages and Objective Steppers
The P-737 PIFOC stage is an addition to the extremely successful PIFOC^® brand of high-speed piezo objective Z-steppers. While no sample stage can beat the speed of the fastest PIFOC^® objective positioners (due to the stiffer, more compact design), the P-737 PIFOC^® stage allows for millisecond sample settling enabling convenient Z-stack imaging with multiple objectives and very high throughput.

Piezo Z-Stages vs. Conventional Stepper Focus Drives
The fast response of the P-737 fully utilizes the high throughput of the latest digital imaging systems and achieves 10 to 50 times faster response than conventional stepper motor focus drives.

The P-737 PIFOC^® stage is available with a number of analog and highly sophisticated digital piezo controllers and can be controlled through digital interfaces as well as by fast analog signals through a high-speed 0-10V input. The system is fully compatible with all leading imaging acquisition packages. For ease of integration, a comprehensive set of LabView™ drivers is included, even for the analog control option.

Features & Advantages
• Choice of Travel Ranges: 100 µm or 250 µm
• Choice of Controllers: Digital, Analog with Display or Compact Controller
• Custom Tuning for Highest Speed (few Milliseconds per Step)
• Compatible with all Major Image Acquisition Packages
• Closed-Loop for Nanometer Precise Motion Control