The performance of precision positioning systems equally depends on their mechanical systems and on the way they are controlled. Physik Instrumente (PI) from Karlsruhe, Germany, the specialist for piezo-based nanopositioning, has been relying on fully digital technology for more than 10 years now and adds the E-725 three-channel motion controller to its portfolio. Thanks to digital technology, users have access via software to numerous parameters which optimize the settling time and linearity, or compensate for system inertia during fast scans. Among other performance features, the E-725 optimizes the dynamic positioning of specimen in the X, Y and Z directions for applications such as tracking or atomic force microscopy. The E-725 uses modern interfaces such as USB and Ethernet. There are many software drivers available to support its integration as a sub-system in existing structures.
The E-725 in figures: A powerful 32 bit processor with 225 MHz ensures a servo rate of 20 kHz. The position signal has a 24 bit resolution. Digital inputs and outputs offer direct trigger signals from and to the devices in the system environment. Optionally, the individual axes can be controlled via analog inputs. In addition, the ID chip feature makes it possible to directly operate the nanopositioning system without prior adjustment at the factory.
