New Piezo Stage Helps Researchers Study Proteins

May 4, 2009 - PRLog -- Super resolution microscopy (nanoscopy) refers to optical techniques that go beyond the diffraction limit. They are often used as tools for bio-medical research revealing deatails of proteins and biomolecules, resolving to the 10 nanometer scale. Most super-resolution microscopes incorporate piezo precision positioning devices for scanning or focusing.

The new PI-nano™ series piezo stages feature a low profile of 20 mm, large aperture & deliver highly accurate motion with sub-nanometer resolution in 2 & 3 axes. A piezo controller is included; it has a 24-bit USB port, Ethernet, RS-232 & analog interface, + solid software support for all major image acquisition packages.

The piezo stage is supplemented by the optional M-545 manual XY microscope stage available in different versions for Olympus, Nikon, Zeiss and Leica microscopes.

Reduced Cost through Optimization for the Application
The PI nano™ series of piezo stages extends PI’s successful P-527, P-733 and P-563 series of capacitive direct-metrology nanopositioning stages. PI nano™ series systems were developed to provide high performance at lower cost, by adapting mechanics and controller exactly to the requirements of the target applications.

More Information:
http://www.physikinstrumente.com/en/news/fullnews.php?new...


Improved Linearity with Special Controller
For highly stable, closed loop operation, piezoresistive sensors are applied directly to the moving structure and precisely measure the displacement of the stage platform. The very high sensitivity of these sensors provides optimum position stability and responsiveness as well as sub-nanometer resolution. The proprietary servo controller significantly improves the motion linearity compared to conventional piezoresistive sensor controllers.

Application Examples
Scanning Microscopy, Single Molecule Microscopy, 3D Imaging, Autofocusing, Scanning and Alignment Tasks in Bio-Nanotechnology.

Features & Advantages
# Low Profile for Easy Integration: 20 mm (0.8")
# Longest Lifetime with Ceramic Encapsulated Piezo Drives
# Cost Effective due to Low-Cost Piezoresistive Sensors
# Software Support for Leading Image Acquisition Packages
# Closed-Loop Control for High Repeatability and Accuracy
# 24 Bit Controller with USB, Ethernet, RS-232 Interface and Analog Control
# Available Manual Long Travel Stage with Motor Upgrade Option

More on Tools for Microscopes
http://pi-usa.us/products/Microscopy_Imaging/Microscope_S...


About PI
PI is a leading manufacturer of piezo systems, stages, linear motors & precision motion-control equipment for microscopy, bio-nanotechnology, photonics & semiconductor applications. The company has 4 decades of motion control experience with OEM and research customers. PI was ISO 9001 certified in 1994 and is present worldwide with eight subsidiaries and a total staff of over 500.

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