Zolix KSA/PSA/TSA/RAK/RSA Series Electric Translation Stages

Overview

The Zolix KSA, PSA, TSA, RAK, and RSA series electric translation stages are precision motion platforms engineered for high-repeatability linear and rotational positioning in optical, metrological, and automated laboratory environments. These stages operate on the principle of electromechanical actuation—typically via hybrid stepper motors coupled with precision lead screws, crossed-roller bearings, or recirculating ball screws—to convert electrical command signals into controlled mechanical displacement. Designed for integration into optical alignment systems, laser cavity tuning setups, interferometric measurement rigs, and automated inspection stations, they deliver deterministic motion with sub-micron repeatability under open-loop operation—and sub-100 nm resolution when equipped with optional incremental or absolute optical encoders. Their modular architecture supports both ambient and specialized environmental deployment, including vacuum-compatible variants (with non-outgassing materials and lubricants), cleanroom-rated configurations (with sealed bearings and IP54-rated enclosures), and radiation-tolerant options (upon custom request). All models comply with RoHS directives and meet CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EN 61326-1) and low-voltage safety (EN 61000-6-2/3).

Key Features

• Modular platform design supporting linear (KSA, PSA, TSA), rotary (RAK, RSA), and multi-axis stacked configurations (e.g., XY, XYZ, Xθ, XYθ)
• Precision mechanical construction: hardened stainless steel baseplates, ground anodized aluminum bodies, preloaded crossed-roller or dovetail bearing guides
• Standard stepper motor integration with 1.8° step angle; optional servo motor upgrade available for higher torque and dynamic response
• Open-loop resolution down to 0.1 µm per step (dependent on lead screw pitch and microstepping configuration); closed-loop accuracy enhanced via optional linear or rotary optical encoders
• Maximum load capacity ranging from 2 kg (PSA series) to 20 kg (KSA heavy-duty variants), with bidirectional repeatability ≤ ±0.5 µm across full travel
• Travel ranges spanning 13 mm to 300 mm for linear stages; angular range up to ±360° continuous rotation for RAK/RSA rotary stages
• Environmental adaptability: optional stainless-steel shafts, fluoropolymer-coated components, and vacuum-compatible grease (UHV-rated to 1×10⁻⁷ mbar)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

These translation stages interface seamlessly with standard optical breadboards (M6/M4 tapped holes), kinematic mounts, and OEM motion control subsystems. Mechanical interfaces conform to ISO 841 coordinate conventions and follow DIN 31642 mounting hole patterns where applicable. All stages are compatible with common motion controllers—including Zolix’s proprietary MCM series controller boxes—as well as third-party solutions compliant with RS-232, USB 2.0, Ethernet (TCP/IP), or CANopen protocols. From a regulatory standpoint, the systems support GLP/GMP-aligned workflows through audit-trail-capable firmware logging (when used with Zolix MotionStudio software), and are suitable for applications referenced in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration laboratories. While not FDA-cleared devices per se, their traceable positioning performance enables compliance with USP balance calibration procedures and ASTM E2587-21 guidelines for automated dimensional metrology.

Software & Data Management

Zolix MotionStudio is the native Windows-based application for configuration, real-time monitoring, script-driven scanning, and multi-axis synchronized motion sequencing. It supports industry-standard file formats (CSV, TXT) for trajectory export/import and integrates with MATLAB® via ActiveX and Python through PySerial or vendor-provided SDKs. Firmware updates are delivered over USB or Ethernet with version-controlled rollback capability. For enterprise deployment, MotionStudio optionally logs all position commands, encoder feedback timestamps, error flags (e.g., stall detection, thermal limit exceedance), and user authentication events—enabling 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic records when paired with validated IT infrastructure. Remote diagnostics and parameter backup/restore functions further reduce system downtime during routine maintenance cycles.

Applications

• Laser beam steering and cavity length stabilization in ultrafast and CW laser systems
• Automated focus scanning in confocal microscopy and optical coherence tomography (OCT)
• Position-critical sample handling in Raman spectroscopy, ellipsometry, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) platforms
• Multi-point calibration of photodetectors, CCD/CMOS sensors, and radiometric standards
• Robotic end-effector positioning in semiconductor wafer probing and micro-optical assembly stations
• Vacuum-integrated thin-film deposition alignment and in-situ ellipsometric monitoring

FAQ

What is the difference between KSA and PSA series stages?
The KSA series emphasizes high-load capacity and long travel (up to 300 mm) with enhanced structural rigidity for industrial metrology use; the PSA series prioritizes compact footprint and fine-resolution positioning (standard 13–100 mm travel) for space-constrained optical tables.
Can these stages be used in vacuum environments?
Yes—vacuum-compatible versions are available with UHV-grade stainless steel hardware, dry-film lubricants, and vented motor housings; consult engineering documentation for pressure rating and bake-out specifications.
Is encoder feedback supported natively?
Optical encoder integration is optional and requires matching controller firmware and cabling; closed-loop operation is fully supported in MotionStudio v3.2+ with real-time PID tuning.
Do you provide API access for custom software integration?
Yes—comprehensive C/C++, .NET, and Python APIs are included with each controller shipment, along with detailed protocol documentation and example code repositories.
What warranty and calibration services are offered?
All stages ship with a 24-month limited warranty; NIST-traceable calibration certificates (including bidirectional repeatability and linearity data) are available as a value-added service upon request.