Thorlabs MT Series Motorized Translation Stage, 12 mm Travel

Overview

The Thorlabs MT Series Motorized Translation Stage is a precision-engineered linear motion platform designed for integration into optical alignment systems, interferometric setups, fiber coupling workstations, and automated microscopy stages. Built upon the proven mechanical architecture of Thorlabs’ manual MT series, the motorized variant replaces manual micrometer drives with the Z812B DC servo motor—delivering repeatable, closed-loop positioning over a 12 mm travel range. Its motion principle relies on a preloaded lead screw actuated by a high-torque DC servo motor coupled to an inline 67:1 planetary gearhead, enabling high force transmission while maintaining compact packaging (motor housing diameter: 15 mm). The hardened steel linear bearings ensure low hysteresis, minimal wear, and long-term dimensional stability—critical for applications requiring sub-micrometer repeatability across thermal and mechanical cycling. This stage operates within ambient laboratory environments and is engineered for compatibility with standard optical breadboards (e.g., 1/4″-20 or M6 tapped holes) and modular optomechanical infrastructure.

Key Features

• 12 mm unidirectional travel with sub-micrometer resolution enabled by integrated optical encoder feedback
• High-load capability: 9 kg (20 lbs) in horizontal orientation; 4.5 kg (10 lbs) in vertical orientation—achieved via optimized gear reduction and rigid bearing support
• Maximum translation speed of 3.0 mm/s, programmable via velocity ramping to minimize mechanical overshoot
• Modular design supports XY and XYZ configurations using standardized mounting interfaces and precision alignment pins
• Hardened steel linear bearings provide low-friction, wear-resistant motion with minimal axial play and angular deviation
• Z812B motor includes commercial-grade internal limit switches for overload protection and end-of-travel safety
• Compact form factor compatible with space-constrained optical enclosures and multi-axis kinematic assemblies

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MT Series motorized stage is intended for positioning optical components—including lenses, mirrors, fiber collimators, detectors, and sample holders—within controlled laboratory environments. It is not rated for vacuum, cleanroom Class 100, or explosive atmospheres. All units comply with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and bear CE marking for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC Directive 2014/30/EU) and low-voltage safety (LVD Directive 2014/35/EU). While not certified to ISO 9001 at the unit level, Thorlabs manufactures these stages under ISO 9001-certified quality management systems. The stage does not inherently meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements; however, when paired with validated APT software and a compliant TDC001 controller operating in audit-trail-enabled mode (firmware v1.0.10+), it may be incorporated into GLP/GMP-aligned workflows where electronic records are subject to defined procedural controls.

Software & Data Management

Control is executed through Thorlabs’ APT™ (Application Programming Toolkit) software suite, which provides both GUI-based operation and API access (C++, C#, LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python) for integration into custom automation sequences. The TDC001 controller supports USB 2.0 communication and delivers real-time position reporting with timestamped encoder data. Firmware version 1.0.10 or later is required to enable full encoder resolution and bidirectional homing routines. Position logs can be exported as CSV files containing absolute position (µm), timestamp (ms), and motor current (mA)—enabling post-acquisition traceability and correlation with external measurement triggers. No local data storage resides on the TDC001; all configuration and trajectory data are managed externally by the host PC. For multi-axis synchronization, APT supports coordinated motion profiles across multiple T-Cube controllers connected via USB hub (e.g., TCH002).

Applications

• Precision alignment of free-space optical paths in laser cavity construction and beam steering systems
• Fiber-to-fiber or fiber-to-waveguide coupling optimization in photonic packaging and telecom R&D
• Automated focus scanning in confocal and OCT microscope stages
• Positioning of calibration targets in metrology-grade interferometers (e.g., Zygo, Keysight)
• Integration into custom-built spectroscopic sample changers requiring repeatable lateral displacement
• Multi-axis nanopositioning subassemblies when combined with MT401 baseplates and MT402 right-angle brackets

FAQ

Does the MT1-Z8 include a motor controller?
No—the TDC001 controller must be purchased separately. The stage ships with the Z812B motor and 0.5 m cable only.
Can I use the MT series with third-party motion controllers?
Yes, provided the controller supports analog voltage input (±10 V) for position command and quadrature encoder output (A/B/Z signals) for feedback. Thorlabs does not guarantee interoperability outside the APT ecosystem.
What is the recommended firmware version for TDC001 when used with Z812B motors?
Firmware v1.0.10 or later is required to unlock full encoder resolution, soft limits, and improved homing accuracy.
Is backlash compensation available in APT software?
APT implements configurable backlash compensation per axis, adjustable in µm, based on empirical characterization of mechanical reversal error.
Are replacement Z812B motors available as spare parts?
Yes—Thorlabs offers the Z812B as a standalone component (Item # Z812B) with identical electrical and mechanical specifications.