Page 1
22882-D02
Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
Chapter 1 Overview
1.1 Introduction
This controller is designed for use in critical alignment applications where nanometer
level motion control is required. These high power units deliver up to 150V/500mA per
channel and are compatible with all piezo-actuated nanopositioning actuators &
stages in the Thorlabs range.
The unit combines the latest highspeed digital signal processors (DSP) with low-noise
analog electronics and ActiveX® software technology for effortless single-axis
motion. Additional axes can be driven by connecting one or more benchtop units via
a standard USB hub.
Manual controls are located on the front face of the unit to allow manual adjustment
of the piezo position using the digitally encoded adjustment pot. The display is easy
to read and can be set to show either applied voltage or position in microns. Open or
closed loop control , maximum drive voltage, and zeroing of the piezo can also be
selected from the front panel.
Fig. 1.1 APT Single Channel Piezo Controller (BPC301)
The APT piezo controller is supplied with a full suite of software support tools. An
intuitive graphical instrument panel allows immediate control and visualization of the
operation of the piezo controller, and any other controllers that are installed in the
system. See Section 1.2. for a full description of the APT system software.
