Large-aperture, low profile, high stiffness – ideal for optics and interferometry

Auburn, MA — PI, a global leader in piezo nanopositioning and precision motion control equipment, announces the S-312 optical phase shifter stage series with five aperture diameters ranging from Ø2" (53mm) to Ø12" (311mm). These U.S.-manufactured piezo stages can be mounted horizontally and vertically and are optimized for optical phase-shifting. Their high-stiffness mechanical design supports sub-nanometer steps with millisecond response times, enabling rapid and repeatable fringe shifting in demanding photonics setups.

Features and Benefits

• Piezo stage for horizontally or vertically mounted optics
• 5 Variants with clear apertures from 53mm (2”) to 311mm (12”)
• Low profile, from 28mm for easy integration
• Tripod piezo design provides stiff platform and Z and Z-Tip-Tilt motion
• Open-loop, analog voltage driven for economical control
• 15µm max displacement at 100V, ~1.5µm at 10V
• Custom versions available, i.e. closed-loop and different form factors

Operation
The S-312 family of stages feature three long-life PICMA® piezo actuators, driven by an external analog amplifier in open-loop operation. The actuators can either be driven in parallel (piston motion) or individually for Z/Tip/Tilt operation with a 3-channel piezo amplifier. Displacement of each actuator is proportional to the analog drive voltage, allowing for straightforward integration and control. For example, a 10V input signal delivers roughly 10% of the stage’s total displacement range at 100V.

Custom optics phase shifter configurations are available with closed-loop control using integrated position sensors, along with a variety of form factors to fit unique system requirements. A 0.5-meter cable is standard, offered with both connectorized and pigtail options to maximize configuration flexibility.

Controller
PI’s compact E-836 piezo amplifier optimizes the S-312 stages performance as a cost-effective, low-noise module with a gain factor of 10 and an output voltage range from –30 V to +130 V. While delivering stability and responsiveness, this amplifier features short-circuit protection along with full overcurrent and overtemperature safeguards, ensuring reliable, long-term operation even under challenging conditions.

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Industries Served
Optics, interferometry, metrology, microscopy, imaging, photonics, astronomy, imaging

Download the S-312 Piezo Phase Shifter Datasheet