The P-721 PIFOCs are piezo-driven, high-speed microscope objective nanofocusing/scanning devices, with a scanning and positioning range of 100 µm with sub-nanometer resolution and very high linearity motion up to 0.03%.
For applications like two photon spectroscopy that requires a high resolution, there are versions allowing free aperture of up to a diameter of 29 mm. PIFOCs are available with up to 460 µm travel and for superior dynamic and step performance
High Accuracy with Direct-Metrology Capacitive Sensors
Top-of-the-line models use capacitive position feedback. The proprietary capacitive sensors from PI determine position directly and without physical contact. They are free of hysteresis and friction that along with a positioning resolution below 1 nm helps reach extremely high linearity levels. An added advantage of direct metrology with capacitive sensors is high phase fidelity and the high bandwidth of up to 10 kHz.
Optionally, strain gauge sensor (SGS) models are available. The sensors are connected in a bridge configuration to eliminate thermal drift, and ensure optimal position stability in the nanometer range.
Applications where very high resolution and fast response are needed require opn loop models. Here reporting or specifying absolute position values is either not needed or done by external sensors like a photodiode PSD, a vision system or interferometers.
These models retain the inherent piezo benefits like speed and high resolution.
Simple Installation with QuickLock Thread Options
The PIFOC is mounted between the objective and the turret with the QuickLock thread adapter. After threading the adapter into the turret, the QuickLock is fixed in the desired position. Since there is no need to rotate the PIFOC body, cable wind-up is not an issue.
High Reliability and Long Lifetime
The compact PIFOC systems are equipped with preloaded PICMA high-performance piezo actuators which are integrated into an advanced, FEA-modeled, flexure guiding system. The PICMA actuators feature co-fired ceramic encapsulation and thus enable better performance and consistency when compared to conventional piezo actuators. Actuators, guidance and sensors do not require maintenance and are not subject to wear, and thus offer an extraordinary reliability.
Choice of Controllers
A large choice of analog and digital piezo controllers as OEM, bench-top and 19-inch-rackmount versions are available.
Key Features
The key features of the P-721 PIFOCs are:
- Scans and positions objectives with sub-nm resolution
- Travel ranges to 140 µm, millisecond settling time
- Considerably faster response and higher lifetime than motorized z-stages
- Parallel precision flexure guiding for better focus stability
- Choice of position sensors: capacitive direct metrology (higher performance) or strain gauge (lower cost)
- Compatible with metamorph imaging software
- Outstanding lifetime due to picma piezo actuators
- Quicklock adapter for easy attachment
- Clear aperture up to 29 mm
Applications of the P-721 PIFOCs are
- 3D-Imaging
- Metrology
- Disc-drive-testing
- Z Stack Acquisition
- Screening
- Interferometry
- Autofocus systems
- Confocal microscopy
- Biotechnology
- Semiconductor testing