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Linear Motorized Stages
Frequently Asked Questions
Almost invariably all motorized linear stages have gear mechanisms (dove-tail bearings, crossed-roller slides, etc.) which are lubricated by special grease. Depending on the type of the grease they may or may not evaporate under low pressure. Special types of grease, O-rings and sealants are used for vacuum compatible stages to survive extremely low pressure environments.
The main difference between a servo motor and stepper motor is in the fashion of motion. In a servo motor the motion happens on a continuous fashion and requires a special encoder and a feedback loop to precisely know the position of the translation stage at any given point in time. In contrast, stepper motor operates in a discrete fashion, moving from one position to another and thus can locate the position by simply counting the steps.
The main advantage of the servo motor is the continuously smooth movement along the motion axis. Built correctly they can offer the ultimate performance for the most demanding motion control applications. This advantage comes with a cost of a more complicated set up that requires an encoder and a feedback loop to measure the position accurately. Understandably it also comes with a higher price tag. With the same token, the stepper motors are simpler in construction and are usually cheaper.
In the context of linear motorized stages, they simply mean the position of the driver shaft relative to the body of the stage. If the shaft is pushing the translation stage from the center, it is referred to as center-driven. Likewise for left/right aligned shafts they are called left-driven or right-driven.
Most manufacturers will quote both the horizontal and vertical load capacities. It is very important to operate those stages within these specified values. Otherwise all other parameters, such as reproducibility, accuracy, velocity linearity, etc. will become void. In extreme cases you might even stall or even damage the drive train.
Yes it is possible to stack two or more linear motorized stages to achieve multi-axis motion control. However in doing so, you should carefully calculate the load capacities to ensure that you are staying with the manufacturer specified ranges.
Motorized linear stages are highly precise sophisticated instruments. Depending on their specifications, construction material, type of motor used the prices will vary from under $1,000 to upwards of $10,000. Price will be higher if you include a separate controller and other accessories. For any specific product posted on FindLight please contact the respective supplier form the specific product page.
Encoders are electronic feedback devices that give precise information about the location of the drive shaft during the motion of stage. This is an important component in a servo motor driven motorized stage.
Linear Stages - Precise, Reliable, and Automated Positioning Solutions
When it comes to high-precision positioning and automated motion control, linear stages enable you to achieve smooth, accurate, and repeatable movement in a range of optical, scientific, and industrial applications. At FindLight, we specialize in offering a broad portfolio of linear stages designed to provide fine control for your most sophisticated setups — whether you need sub-micron resolution, heavy-load capacity, or high-speed, automated operation.
What Are Linear Stages?
A linear stage is a motion control platform that guides a component along a single, straight path with high precision. Often used in optical benches, biotechnology equipment, semiconductor processing, metrology, or imaging setups, these stages enable fine-tuned, controlled movement for focusing, alignment, or scanning. While manual stages provide simplicity and ease of use, motorized linear stages bring forward a new dimension of control — perfect for applications requiring automated routines, high-throughput processing, or complex, multiaxis coordination.
Why Are Motorized Linear Stages So Valuable?
Motorized linear stages enable enhanced control and repeatability for your most delicate operations. Whether you need automated scanning routines for imaging, high-resolution micropositions for sensor calibration, or fine alignments under heavy-load conditions, a motorized linear stage lets you streamline your process while retaining maximum accuracy. This reduces human intervention, minimizes the opportunity for error, and guarantees greater reproducibility in your results — especially when high-throughput or multistage operations are involved.
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:
Motorized Linear Stages: Provide automated control with high resolution and repeatability — perfect for complex routines, heavy-load applications, or fine microadjustments.
High-Load Stages: Support heavy components while retaining smooth and accurate movement under substantial weights.
Nanopositioning Stages: Designed for ultra-fine control at the nanometer scale — frequently used in biotechnology, semiconductor processing, or high-resolution imaging.
Manual Linear Stages: Reliable and cost-effective for less-demanding applications or when manual fine-tuning is desirable.
Applications of Linear Stages
Motorized linear stages enable critical and accurate positioning across 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 motorized linear stage guarantees you maximum control, repeatability, and, ultimately, the highest quality results for your enterprise.
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