ZOLIX TSMV5-2S Manual Precision Vertical Translation Stage

Overview

The ZOLIX TSMV5-2S Manual Precision Vertical Translation Stage is an engineered solution for sub-millimeter vertical positioning in optical alignment, interferometry, laser cavity setup, and micro-optomechanical assembly. Based on a compact, monolithic aluminum alloy chassis and utilizing a high-accuracy ground micrometer screw drive (pitch = 0.5 mm), the stage delivers repeatable, hysteresis-minimized vertical displacement over its full 5 mm travel range. Its backlash-free motion is achieved via a dual-spring preloaded nut mechanism that maintains constant axial contact pressure between screw and nut—effectively eliminating lost motion without compromising smoothness or torque requirements. The stage’s low mass (50 g) and rigid construction minimize thermal drift and dynamic perturbation, making it suitable for use in vibration-sensitive environments including optical tables, vacuum-compatible enclosures (with optional anodized finish), and cleanroom-integrated setups.

Key Features

• 5 mm fine vertical travel with ±1 µm repeatability under consistent manual actuation
• 25 mm × 25 mm top plate featuring four M3 threaded mounting holes (standard spacing) for direct integration with optics carriers, kinematic mounts, or adapter plates
• Integrated micrometer knob with engraved scale (0.01 mm resolution) and locking collar to secure position during operation
• Low-profile design (height ≈ 28 mm, excluding knob) enabling stacking or nested integration within multi-axis optomechanical assemblies
• Corrosion-resistant black anodized surface finish compliant with ISO 7583 and MIL-A-8625 Type II specifications
• Interchangeable base interface: standard 4 × M3 through-holes (center-to-center 20 mm) compatible with ZOLIX’s TSMT5-3 tip/tilt mount and TSM13-series linear stages

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TSMV5-2S is designed for passive mechanical integration—not sample loading—and therefore imposes no material or environmental constraints on mounted components. It supports optical elements up to 50 mm diameter and 200 g mass when used within its specified center-of-gravity envelope. All structural components meet RoHS 2011/65/EU directive requirements. Mechanical tolerances adhere to ISO 2768-mK general tolerancing standards. While not certified to ISO 9001 as a standalone component, the stage is manufactured under ZOLIX’s ISO 9001:2015-certified quality management system. No electrical, pneumatic, or fluid interfaces are present; suitability for Class 1000 cleanrooms is confirmed per IEST-STD-CC1246D.

Software & Data Management

As a fully manual, non-motorized device, the TSMV5-2S requires no firmware, drivers, or software integration. Position data is recorded manually via the engraved micrometer scale or externally using calibrated digital calipers, laser displacement sensors (e.g., Keyence LK-H050), or optical encoder-based metrology systems. For traceable calibration records, users may log actuation counts and corresponding height values in laboratory notebooks compliant with GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) or internal SOPs. Documentation includes a factory-assembled verification report listing initial runout (< 3 µm over full stroke) and perpendicularity deviation (< 15 arcsec relative to base plane).

Applications

• Precise vertical alignment of collimators, fiber couplers, and objective lenses in free-space optical paths
• Height adjustment of photodetectors or beam profilers in laser characterization benches
• Stacked multi-axis positioning systems when combined with TSMT5-3 (tip/tilt) and TSM13-1 (X-axis) stages for 5-DOF manual alignment
• Calibration reference platforms for interferometric height gauges and confocal microscopy z-axis validation
• Integration into OEM optical subsystems where space, weight, and EMI immunity are critical constraints

FAQ

Is the TSMV5-2S compatible with metric or imperial optical rails?
Yes—the base mounting pattern follows standard 20 mm center-to-center spacing, aligning with both ZOLIX’s own rail systems and widely adopted 25 mm pitch metric breadboard grids.
Can this stage be used in vacuum environments?
Standard units are rated for ambient conditions only; however, vacuum-compatible versions (with dry-lubricated screws and outgassing-tested anodization) are available upon request under part number TSMV5-2S-VAC.
What is the maximum recommended load for sustained 5 mm travel?
For optimal repeatability and screw longevity, static loads should not exceed 150 g when operating across the full stroke; dynamic loads must remain below 50 g.
Does ZOLIX provide calibration certificates for individual units?
Yes—NIST-traceable calibration reports (including vertical linearity, hysteresis, and bidirectional repeatability measurements) are available as an optional add-on at time of order.
How does the spring-preloaded nut compare to traditional backlash compensation methods?
Unlike single-spring or shim-based approaches, the dual-spring configuration provides symmetrical axial force distribution, reducing thread wear asymmetry and extending service life beyond 10,000 full-stroke cycles under nominal load.