(pressebox) (Karlsruhe, 26.10.2006) Micropositioning systems with stepper motors and MercuryTM Step controller (C-663) are ideally suited for cost-effective automation systems. The C-663 single-channel controller from PI (Physik Instrumente) offers high resolution and smooth, microstepping motion (1/16 full step). Heat generation by the stepper motor at rest can be easily prevented by the controller's adjustable dynamic hold current feature. For multi-axis applications, up to 16 Mercury™ controllers (DC and stepper) can be daisy chained and operated from one computer interface. Command interface to the host computer is via USB or RS-323.

In stand-alone mode MercuryTM Step controllers(http://www.physikinstrumente.com/...) can execute predetermined command sequences automatically without a run-time PC connection. These sequences are conveniently generated with the host software macro editor and then stored directly in the C-663 controller. For flexible automation, Mercury™ Step controllers are equipped with four digital outputs and four inputs for either digital or analog (8 bit) use. These can be employed for interaxis communication and stand-alone mode, for example as triggers. For operational safety, MercuryTM Step controllers support reference and limit switches.

Manual command of stepper motor micropositioning stages is supported using the pushbutton pad or analog joystick accessories, both of which also work without a PC. Joystick sensitivity can be easily and individually programmed with the configurable joystick response table.

PI, a global market leader in the field of micro- and nanopositioning technology, has been developing and manufacturing standard, custom and OEM products with piezoelectric and motor drives for over 35 years. In addition to its three manufacturing centers in Germany, PI is present worldwide with eight subsidiaries and total staff of more than 400.

info@pi.ws

www.pi.ws (http://www.pi.ws)

Über Physik Instrumente (PI) SE & Co. KG: Ultra-Precision Positioning Technology

As a global market leader Physik Instrumente (PI) (http://www.pi.ws) has been developing and manufacturing products in the field of micro- and nanopositioning technology for more than 35 years. A great variety of piezo-driven nanopositioning systems and motor-driven micropositioning solutions is available as standard, custom or OEM products. PI positioning systems like translation and rotation stages, PIFOC® microscope objective positioners, tip/tilt mirrors, and 6-axis hexapods are used in various application areas such as metrology, microscopy, semiconductor and data storage technology.

PI’s specific technologies and expertise in high-performance, ultra-precision positioning makes possible systems offering sub-nanometer accuracy in combination with superior linearity and dynamics. For closed-loop operation, the highest accuracy systems incorporate high-precision capacitive position sensors and advanced control electronics. In high-speed applications, highly-sophisticated motion controllers with features like Digital Dynamic Linearization can reduce non-linearity, phase lag and tracking errors significantly.

PI has been ISO 9001 certified since 1994. PI products are characterized by their quality and innovation. To assure highest quality and reduce cost PI keeps sources for all key technologies in house: precision mechanics, digital & analog control electronics, sub-nanometer capacitive position sensors, piezo ceramics and piezo actuators like PICMA®.

PI employs more than 400 staff worldwide and maintains sales, support and service offices in Germany, the USA, England, France, Italy, Japan and China. In addition, PI has representatives in many other countries around the world.

PI Products—Innovation & Superior Quality
• Piezo nanopositioning systems

• PIFOC® microscope positioners

• Piezo steering mirrors

• Piezo actuators

• Linear drives

• Motion controller

• Hexapods

• Micropositioning systems (DC or stepper motor)

• Capacitive position sensors

Physik Instrumente (PI) GmbH & Co. KG
Auf der Römerstrasse 1
76228 Karlsruhe
Phone: (+49) 721 4846-0
Fax: (+49) 721 4846-100
www.pi.ws
info@pi.ws