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ScienceDesk Workstation
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1 General Description
The SDA Series Science Desks are active vibration isolation systems used to isolate a breadboard from vertical and
horizontal vibrations in order to provide a stable platform for sensitive experiments and applications.
The SDP Series are passive vibration isolation systems used in an environment where vibration is less critical, and can bear
a load of up to 260 kg (570 lbs).
The SDH Series are also passive vibration isolation systems. However, they are designed to bear a heavier load than the
SDP Series - up to 700 kg (1545 lbs).
The SDR Series are rigid, non-isolating systems for use in environments where vibration isolation is not required.
The basic ScienceDesk includes a frame consisting of four legs connected with tie bars. A breadboard, is supported on
vibration isolation mounts and provides a stable platform on which to populate system components. Various accessories
can be added (e.g. PC shelves, monitor mounts, wrist supports etc.) to customize the workstation as required – see Fig.
1.1 for a typical layout and www.thorlabs.com for more details.
Fig. 1.1 Typical layout
The frame is drilled with 17mm diameter through holes on a 100mm pitch to facilitate the mounting of customer designed
accessories or components as required.
Throughout this handbook, all examples refer to a standard height desk. A standing height option is also available and all
instructions apply eually to these variants.
1.2 Accessories
Thorlabs provide a range of accessories to assist in the mounting of ancilliary components, please see www.thorlabs.com
for more details.
