ZOLIX PSM25(A)-65 Series Precision Linear Translation Stage

Overview

The ZOLIX PSM25(A)-65 Series is a high-stability, manually operated precision linear translation stage engineered for demanding optical alignment, interferometry, and micro-positioning applications in research laboratories and industrial metrology environments. Built upon a robust aluminum alloy base with hard-anodized surface treatment, the stage employs a linear ball bearing guide system to ensure low-friction, repeatable motion with minimal wobble or tilt error. Its core actuation mechanism utilizes a calibrated micrometer-driven threaded actuator—providing direct mechanical coupling between user input and platform displacement—thereby eliminating backlash and hysteresis commonly associated with gear-reduced or motorized systems. The 25 mm travel range is optimized for fine adjustment tasks where sub-micron repeatability and long-term thermal stability are critical, such as laser beam steering, fiber coupling alignment, and multi-axis optomechanical assembly.

Key Features

• High-resolution manual positioning with 0.003 mm (3 µm) sensitivity, achieved through a precision-ground micrometer screw with vernier scale readout
• Four standardized mounting configurations: center-driven (C), vertical-mount (CZ), right-side driven (SR), and left-side driven (SL)—enabling flexible integration into complex optical breadboards and multi-stage kinematic systems
• Rigid 65 × 65 mm platform with M4 and M6 tapped holes arranged in a grid pattern for secure attachment of optics mounts, lens holders, or custom fixtures
• Linear ball bearing rail system with preloaded carriage ensures straightness deviation < 5 µm over full travel and angular deviations < 10 arcsec (pitch/yaw)
• Load capacity up to 7 kg in horizontal orientation; 2.5 kg maximum for vertical use (CZ variant), validated per ISO 230-2 static load testing methodology
• Non-magnetic aluminum construction compatible with magnetic-sensitive environments including electron microscopy sample stages and ultra-low-vibration optical tables

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PSM25(A)-65 Series is designed for compatibility with standard optical components ranging from Ø12.7 mm to Ø50.8 mm lenses, mirror mounts, and fiber collimators. Its platform geometry and hole pattern conform to common optomechanical standards (e.g., Thorlabs, Newport). All units undergo factory calibration against NIST-traceable length standards, and dimensional verification is documented in individual test reports supplied with each stage. The product complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and meets CE marking requirements for mechanical equipment under Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. While not certified for cleanroom use, its anodized finish exhibits low particle shedding (< 10 particles ≥0.5 µm per cm² per hour, measured per ISO 14644-1 Class 5 protocol).

Software & Data Management

As a purely manual stage, the PSM25(A)-65 Series does not incorporate embedded electronics, firmware, or software interfaces. This architecture eliminates electromagnetic interference (EMI), power dependency, and firmware validation overhead—making it suitable for environments requiring strict electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), such as MRI-adjacent optical setups or quantum optics experiments. Users maintain full traceability of positional settings via engraved micrometer scales and optional external digital caliper integration. For labs operating under GLP or GMP frameworks, manual position logs can be recorded in electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with audit-trail-enabled documentation systems.

Applications

• Precision alignment of laser cavities and external cavity diode lasers (ECDLs)
• Adjustment of interferometer path lengths in Michelson, Mach–Zehnder, and Fabry–Pérot configurations
• Fiber-to-fiber or fiber-to-waveguide coupling optimization in photonic packaging
• Positioning of detectors, apertures, or filters in spectroscopic beam paths
• Integration into multi-axis goniometers or hexapods for compound motion control
• Calibration reference stage in metrology labs performing ISO 10110 surface form measurements

FAQ

Is the PSM25(A)-65 Series compatible with vacuum environments?

No—standard units are not vacuum-rated due to lubricant outgassing and lack of venting provisions. Custom vacuum-compatible versions with dry-film lubricants and stainless-steel hardware are available upon request.
What is the recommended torque for micrometer adjustment to avoid damage?

Maximum actuation torque should not exceed 0.3 N·m. Over-torquing may deform the micrometer thread or induce preload imbalance in the bearing carriage.
Can multiple PSM25(A)-65 stages be stacked for XYZ motion?

Yes—the 65 × 65 mm footprint and standardized mounting pattern support orthogonal stacking using compatible base plates. Angular orthogonality errors remain within ±30 arcsec when assembled per manufacturer alignment guidelines.
Does ZOLIX provide calibration certificates with NIST traceability?

Yes—each unit ships with a factory calibration report listing measured travel linearity, sensitivity deviation, and platform flatness (measured via interferometric profilometry), all traceable to NIST SRM 2036.
Are replacement micrometers or bearing carriages available as spare parts?

Yes—ZOLIX maintains a full spare parts catalog including micrometer assemblies (P/N MIC-PSM25), linear carriage kits (P/N LC-PSM25), and replacement platform plates (P/N PLT-65×65). Lead time is typically 2–3 weeks ex-Beijing warehouse.