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Linear Stages
Frequently Asked Questions
A linear translation stage (linear stage) is a rail guide mechanism used to precisely control the movement of an object along one or more linear dimensions (axes). They typically include a ball bearing based rail guide that constricts the movement of two metal plates (the base and the platform) relative to each other along a specified axis.
Manual Linear stages typically come installed with a micrometer actuator that pushes the spring loaded platform against the baseplate that moves. This structure provides a micrometer level precision. Some manual linear stages also come with a side lock screw that allows locking the position of the stage once it is adjusted.
Manual linear translation stages are often used in photonics applications including the alignment of optical elements (mirrors, lenses, crystals, etc.) in an optical experiment, spectroscopic measurements, bio medical experiments, laser system prototyping, etc. In general, they are used in any application requiring a precise adjustment and motion control along one or more linear axes.
There are many parameters that define the performance of the translation stage. Depending on your applications you will need to make sure that the stage of your choice matches the parameters of your requirements. The key parameters to look out for are the travel range, positioning sensitivity, load capacity, guide rail mechanism, weight and the number of axes of motion.
In general, yes, but always consult the technical specifications to make sure that the manual stage can handle the vertical load capacity when turned 90 degrees. You will want to position the driving micrometer actuator from the bottom, to make sure that there is no excess load on the retracting spring.
Most linear translation stages come with predrilled mounting holes and you can use these holes to mount the stage on an optical table or a breadboard. However, for stages that have a large baseplate you might want to take the proper precautions to avoid warping due to thermal expansion. For sensitive applications, such as the optical alignment you might want to use clamps instead of relying on predrilled holes to avoid warping due to thermal expansion. Not that sub-mm level lateral expansion would be enough to create warping that would cause misalignment in your optical setup.
All products posted on FindLight are offered directly from the suppliers and manufacturers of those products. At the moment, FindLight does not carry any inventory. You can directly reach out and buy from the suppliers without any markups. Simply contact he respective supplier and they will guide you on how to buy their product.
High-Precision Profiled Rails, Crossed Roller Slides, Air Bearings can all be great choices as a guiding mechanism is linear stages. Always consult the technical specification table to make sure that the stability and sensitivity specifications match your requirements.
Linear Stages - Precise Positioning Solutions for Your Optical System
When it comes to high-precision positioning in optical, scientific, or industrial applications, linear stages enable you to achieve smooth, accurate, and repeatable movement. At FindLight, we specialize in offering a wide range of linear stages designed to provide the finest control for your most delicate operations, whether you need sub-micron resolution, heavy-load capabilities, or high-speed adjustments.
What Are Linear Stages?
A linear stage is a motion control platform that guides an object along a straight path - typically in a single degree of freedom - with high precision. Often used in optical benches, metrology setups, semiconductor manufacturing, biotechnology, and many other applications, these stages enable fine, controlled movement for alignments, focusing, and scanning. Linear stages can be manually driven or motorized, depending on your application’s complexity and resolution requirements.
Why Are Linear Stages So Important?
Precise linear movement is frequently a key requirement for fine-tuning and optimizing optical assemblies. Whether you’re aligning a laser, focusing a microscope, or scanning a sample under a sensor, tiny positional inaccuracies can undermine your results. A high-quality linear stage lets you move components smoothly and accurately, reducing aberrations, inaccuracies, or data variation due to mechanical instabilities. This directly results in improved resolution, repeatability, and overall performance in your application.
Types of Linear Stages:
At FindLight, we collaborate with leading suppliers to bring you a range of linear stages designed to match your application’s demands:
Manual Linear Stages: Reliable, cost-effective, and easy to use - perfect for fine-tuning or adding small, incremental adjustments.
Motorized Linear Stages: Provide automated control with high resolution and repeatability, ideal for complex or high-throughput applications.
High-Load Stages: Support heavy components while retaining smooth and accurate movement under substantial loads.
Nanopositioning Stages: Designed for ultra-fine control at the nanometer scale - frequently used in biotechnology, semiconductor manufacturing, and high-resolution imaging.
Applications of Linear Stages:
Linear stages enable critical and accurate positioning in numerous fields, from biotechnology and materials science to industrial manufacturing and metrology. Scientists and engineers use them to align optical components, move samples under a microscope, perform automated scanning routines, or aid in production processes where high precision is essential. Whatever your application, choosing the appropriate linear stage guarantees you maximum control and repeatability — allowing you to achieve your most accurate and reliable results.
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