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Zaber's 2017 Catalogue

Product catalog summary

Company Profile
Zaber Technologies, established in 1997, is a leader in designing and manufacturing high precision positioning devices. They pioneered the first precision linear actuator with a built-in controller, simplifying motion control setups and reducing costs. The company offers over 100 motion control products worldwide, focusing on innovation, customer feedback, and excellent support.

Services
Zaber provides a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a one-year warranty on all products. They offer quantity discounts for bulk orders and flat rate shipping within Canada and the US, emphasizing customer feedback integration, excellent service, and competitive pricing.

Product Development: Prototyping
Prototyping is essential in Zaber's product development, allowing for hands-on testing and performance evaluation. Early-stage prototypes help identify necessary design changes and motivate the development team.

Product Range
Zaber's products include motorized positioners with built-in controllers, drivers, and encoders. They offer easy installation and versatile software compatible with various programming languages. Their devices support daisy-chaining, reducing cabling needs and simplifying multi-axis system setups.

Technical Article: Daisy-Chaining
The article discusses the efficiency of daisy-chaining data and power in Zaber devices, reducing cabling complexity in multi-axis systems. Zaber's T-Series, A-Series, and X-Series devices support this feature, enhancing setup efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Environmental Commitment
Zaber is committed to minimizing environmental impact by reducing hazardous substances in their products, ensuring RoHS compliance, and using recyclable packaging.

Device Specifications
Zaber devices use RS-232 serial communication and can operate under Zaber ASCII or Binary protocols. The T-Series is limited to a baud rate of 9600, while A-Series and X-Series offer higher communication speeds.

Daisy-Chaining Data and Power
All devices in a daisy-chain must use the same protocol and baud rate. T-Series and X-Series can share power within their series, while A-Series requires individual power supplies.

Series-Specific Considerations

T-Series: Uses L/R drivers with a recommended power supply of 15 VDC.
A-Series: Cannot share power but can daisy-chain data, operates best with 24-48 VDC power supplies.
X-Series: Similar to T-Series in power sharing, with considerations for voltage levels to optimize performance.

Voltage and Performance
A-Series and X-Series use chopper drives, allowing for higher speed capacities with higher voltage power supplies. Performance charts illustrate the impact of different voltages on motor performance.

Combining Series
When combining different series in a daisy-chain, starting with X-Series devices is recommended for optimal performance. The Quick Set-up Tool is suggested for configuring devices and accessories.

Conclusion
Daisy-chaining Zaber devices reduces the need for multiple accessories, improving efficiency and workspace cleanliness. The document encourages contacting Zaber's support team for assistance and highlights the benefits of subscribing to their newsletter.

Customer Spotlight
WITec GmbH utilizes Zaber actuators in their high-resolution microscopy systems, emphasizing the ease of integration and performance benefits.

Product Description
The A-BAR-E series features motorized electric cylinders with optional motor encoders for closed-loop operation. These devices offer manual and computer control, with specifications provided for various models.

Technical Details on Waveforms
The document provides technical details on creating precision frequency control and vibration using various waveform programs for Zaber Console, including triangle, rounded triangle, sawtooth, and sinusoidal waveforms.

Waveform Specifications

Triangle Wave: Utilizes constant acceleration and deceleration phases.
Rounded Triangle Wave: Similar to the triangle wave but with a rounded profile.
Sawtooth Wave: Features different speeds for extension and retraction.
Sinusoidal Wave: Offers smooth motion with varying speed and acceleration.

Technical Considerations

Timing vs. Positional Accuracy: Discusses the trade-off between timing and positional accuracy.
High Frequency Limitations: Communication time and maximum acceleration are key factors limiting frequency.

Product Description
The X-LRQ-DEC Series motorized linear stages feature high stiffness, load capacity, and lifetime in a compact design. They include optional linear encoders for position verification and correction, and can achieve speeds up to 205 mm/s with a load capacity of 100 kg.

Conclusion
The document highlights the importance of selecting the appropriate device and configuration for specific cycling applications, considering factors like frequency, load, and communication time. It also emphasizes the benefits of Zaber's products in achieving precise motion control.

Motorized Linear Stages
Zaber Technologies offers a range of motorized linear stages with built-in motors, encoders, and controllers, designed for high precision and speed in a compact form.

X-LSM-E Series
The X-LSM-E series features miniature motorized linear stages with optional motor encoders for slip/stall detection and automatic recovery.

X-LHM-E Series
The X-LHM-E series is ideal for single-axis applications with a focus on affordability and compactness.

A-LST-E Series
The A-LST-E series is designed for high-load applications with travel options from 254 mm to 1500 mm.

T-LS Series
The T-LS series offers motorized linear translation stages with 0.1 µm resolution and travel options of 13 mm or 28 mm.

Conclusion
Zaber Technologies provides a comprehensive range of motorized linear stages suitable for various applications, offering high precision, speed, and load capacity in compact designs.

Product Overview
Zaber Technologies offers a range of motorized and manual linear and rotary stages designed for precision motion control.

Installation and Control
The LSA stages connect directly to Zaber's controllers, allowing for daisy-chaining and simplified setup.

Specifications
Models like the LSA10A-T4 and LSA25A-T4 offer travel ranges of 10 mm and 25 mm, respectively, with high accuracy and repeatability.

Vertical and Rotary Motion
The X-VSR Series vertical lift stages support up to 10 kg loads with travel ranges of 20 mm or 40 mm.

Applications and Customization
Zaber's products are used in various applications, including research and competitive robotics.

Customer Feedback
Users have praised the reliability and ease of use of Zaber's stages, highlighting their effectiveness in diverse applications.

Motorized Rotary Stages
Zaber Technologies offers a range of motorized rotary stages with motor encoders, designed for precise angular positioning applications.

Product Specifications

X-RST-E Series: Features a 50.8 mm aperture, speed up to 24 °/s, and torque up to 10 N·m.
X-RSB-E Series: Offers a 120 mm table diameter, 50.8 mm aperture, and speeds up to 1800 °/s.
X-RSW-E Series: Capable of speeds up to 75 rpm and torque up to 2.25 N·m.
X-RSM-E Series: Miniature stages with 0.02° repeatability, 21 mm height, and 50 N load capacity.

Installation and Control
All devices can be connected to a computer via RS-232 or USB ports and support daisy-chaining for power sharing.

Manual Control
An indexed knob allows for manual control at variable speeds, enabling operation without a computer.

Performance and Dimensions
Each series has specific performance charts and dimensions, with detailed specifications available on Zaber's website.

Specifications
Zaber Technologies offers a range of motorized devices including stepper motors, filter wheels, gimbal optic mounts, and mirror mounts.

Installation and Control
All devices can be connected via RS-232 or USB ports and support daisy-chaining to share power and data.

Performance and Features
The X-NMS-E Stepper Motors and X-FWR-E Filter Wheels offer closed-loop operation with optional encoders for position verification and automatic recovery.

Applications
These devices are used in various applications, such as CLEARink Displays' goniometric reflectance apparatus and Laser 2000's automated scanning systems.

Customer and Distributor Feedback
Positive customer feedback highlights Zaber's excellent customer service and support.

Automatic Recovery and Installation
The document discusses the automatic recovery feature of Zaber devices, which can detect slipping or stalling and recover their position.

Computer and Manual Control
Zaber provides free software for device control, supporting various programming languages.

X-GSM-E Specifications
The document lists specifications for the X-GSM-E motorized goniometer stage, including microstep size, load capacity, speed range, and accuracy.

Customer Spotlight - Vermont Photonics
Vermont Photonics uses Zaber's linear actuators for calibrating electronic autocollimators, highlighting their ease of integration and reliability.

X-GLP-E Series Grippers
These are computer-controlled electric grippers with motor-mounted encoders, offering closed-loop operation and feedback.

Customer Spotlight - Kyoto University
Kyoto University uses Zaber actuators in their optical infrared telescope project, emphasizing the actuators' precision and reliability.

Vacuum Applications
The document discusses the importance of vacuum systems in various applications, such as optical coating and semiconductor manufacturing.

Design Considerations for Vacuum Applications
Key considerations include outgassing, material selection, and heat management.

Material Considerations for Vacuum Applications
Materials such as stainless steel, austenitic steel, aluminum, PEEK, PTFE, Kapton, and bronze are discussed for their suitability in vacuum environments.

Motor and Sensor Adaptations
Stepper motors can operate without encoders in vacuum, reducing electronics that may fail.

Heat Management
In vacuum, heat dissipation relies on conduction.

Virtual Leaks and Cable Management
Virtual leaks, caused by trapped gases, are minimized by using vented screws and through holes.

Cleaning and Packaging
Devices are cleaned with isopropyl alcohol and assembled in cleanrooms to prevent contamination.

Product Overview: X-LRQ-SV and X-LSM-SV Series
Zaber's X-LRQ-SV and X-LSM-SV series are vacuum-compatible motorized linear stages.

Conclusion
Zaber Technologies emphasizes the importance of material selection and design considerations for vacuum applications, ensuring reliable performance and simplified motion control.

Specifications
The document lists specifications for different models of linear stages, vertical lift stages, rotary stages, and linear actuators.

Product Descriptions
Each product series is described in terms of its functionality and design.

Installation and Control
The devices can be connected to a computer via RS-232 or USB ports, with the ability to daisy-chain multiple devices.

Design and Construction
The devices are constructed with components chosen for low outgassing, and vacuum-compatible greases and motors are used.

Applications
These devices are suitable for applications requiring precise movement in vacuum environments.

Specifications and Procedures

Mounting Parallel Axes: Begin by loosely mounting the parallel axes, ensuring one is firmly fastened while the other remains adjustable for parallelism.
Homing and Cross-member Connection: Home each axis individually and connect the cross-member perpendicularly to the fixed axis, ensuring alignment with a square.
Tightening and Testing: Adjust and tighten the system while testing movement to ensure no binding occurs during travel.

Lockstep and Synchronized Movement

Enabling Lockstep: Use the Zaber ASCII protocol to enable lockstep, ensuring synchronized movement of axes.
Offset and Travel Limits: The offset value between axes is maintained, and travel limits are enforced to prevent movement outside the allowable range.

Twist Correction and Tolerance

Open vs. Closed-loop Control: Encoders can be added for closed-loop control, allowing for stall detection and twist correction, enhancing system reliability.
Tolerance Settings: The lockstep.tolerance setting can be adjusted based on application requirements to manage acceptable twist levels.

Product Spotlight: Multi-Axis Systems

Configurations: Zaber offers customizable XY, XYZ, and XYZ/rotation systems with various travel and lead screw options.
Installation and Control: Devices connect via RS-232 or USB, with daisy-chaining capabilities.
Manual and Computer Control: Indexed knobs allow for manual control, while software provides automation and scripting capabilities.

Conclusion
The document concludes by highlighting the flexibility of digitally synchronized parallel axes using the lockstep feature, recommending consultation with Zaber's engineers for tailored solutions.

Overview of Zaber Technologies Products

X-XYZ-LSM Three-Axis Stage: This section provides specifications for the X-XYZ-LSM series, which are three-axis stages with built-in controllers.

G-LSQ Gantry Systems: These systems are designed for high-load, multi-axis applications.

Streamed and Interpolated Multi-axis Motion: This technical paper discusses the capabilities of Zaber's X-MCB2 controller, focusing on streamed and interpolated motion commands.

Command Queue Management: The controller manages a queue of streamed commands, ensuring smooth execution.

Custom Product Spotlight: Zaber offers customization for accessories, including brackets and mounting hardware, to meet specific application needs.

Product Customization and Accessories
Zaber Technologies offers a range of customizable products, including brackets, cable tracking, and optical breadboards, tailored to meet specific application requirements.

Design Spotlight: ASR Stage
The ASR stage is designed for scanning and imaging applications, offering high accuracy and stiffness with a low profile.

ASR-E Series: Motorized XY Microscope Stages
The ASR-E series is designed to replace manual stages on microscopes or function as standalone scanning stages.

Installation and Control
The ASR-E stages connect directly to Zaber’s controllers, allowing for simplified setup and reduced cable clutter.

X-MCB2 Two-Axis Stepper Motor Controller
The X-MCB2 controller offers advanced multi-axis coordination, robust locking connectors, and compatibility with existing Zaber products.

Using Triggers to Simplify Automation
Zaber’s controllers support event-based, distance-based, and time-based triggers to automate processes and improve coordination.

Incorporating Sensor Feedback
Mike McDonald, an Applications Engineer, discusses how Zaber's devices can integrate sensor feedback for high precision positioning applications.

X-MCB2 Two-Axis Stepper Motor Controllers
The X-MCB2 controller can independently or simultaneously control two axes of bipolar stepper motors.

X-MCB1 Stepper Motor Controllers
The X-MCB1 controller is designed for bipolar stepper motors, offering customizable microstepping and isolated digital/analog inputs.

X-JOY3 Programmable Joystick
The X-JOY3 joystick is designed for manual control of up to three axes, with programmable sensitivity and velocity profiles.

Simplifying Control Protocols
Mike McDonald explains the importance of command protocols in motion control devices.

Overview
The document discusses two communication protocols used by Zaber Technologies for their controllers: an ASCII protocol and a 6-byte binary protocol.

Controller Series
Zaber offers three series of controllers: T-Series, A-Series, and X-Series.

6-Byte Binary Protocol
This protocol is designed for simplicity and consistency, using a compact format to relay commands.

ASCII Protocol
Available on A-Series and X-Series devices, this protocol uses plain text for communication.

Software and Support
Zaber provides free, open-source software called Zaber Console for device control and automation.

Series Reference Table
The document includes a table comparing the T-Series, A-Series, A-MCB2, and X-Series in terms of data cable connectors, power supply, computer connection, daisy-chain capabilities, default protocols, baud rates, and firmware versions.

Glossary
Definitions are provided for technical terms such as accuracy, backlash, maximum load, speed, torque, microstep size, repeatability, and travel range.

Contact Information
The document lists contact details for Zaber Technologies and its distributors across various regions.

Catalog excerpts

TECHNICAL ARTICLE: DAISY-CHAINING DATA AND POWER TO REDUCE CABLING 8 A-BAR-E High Thrust Motorized Electric Cylinders with Motor Encoders ... 18 T-NA Micro Linear Actuators 20 LAC Compact Motorized Actuators. . 24 NA Motorized Linear Actuators 26 TECHNICAL ARTICLE: CYCLING APPLICATIONS CREATING PRECISION FREQUENCY CONTROL AND VIBRATION 28 CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT: LASERMOTIVE INC. 35 T-LS Motorized Linear Stages 56 TSB Manual Translation Stages 60 CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT: CLEARINK DISPLAYS 80 X-FWR-E Motorized Filter Wheels 82 X-GLP-E Parallel Grippers 94 CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT: KYOTO UNIVERSITY 96 CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT: UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLIN 98 TSB-V Low Vacuum Translation Stages. 121 CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT: UNIVERSITY OF SHEFFIELD. 123 M-LSM Motorized Micromanipulators . . 125 MULTI-AXIS & GANTRY SYSTEMS 128 TECHNICAL ARTICLE: DRIVING PARALLEL AXES WITH LOCKSTEP MOVEMENT. . 129 SCANNING & MICROSCOPE STAGES 148 TECHNICAL ARTICLE: USING TRIGGERS TO SIMPLIFY AUTOMATION 153 X-MCB2 Two-Axis Stepper Motor Controllers 157 X-MCB1 Stepper Motor Controllers 159

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Company Profile How Zaber Got Its Start Zaber Technologies was founded in 1997 by a group of friends with diverse interests in electro-mechanical systems, programming, and physics. Back then, precision linear actuators all used DC motors with gearboxes and encoders, and they required complicated motion control cards, bulky controllers, separate driver amplifiers, and special power supplies. Precision motion control was expensive, difficult to set up, and cumbersome to use. Zaber’s founders recognized the need for an inexpensive, integrated solution for motion control. They wanted to make motion...

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Our Focus Integrating your feedback into our products When you talk, we listen. We continually expand and improve our product line based on your feedback and requests. Providing excellent service and support We strive to offer the best service and technical support in the industry. We believe that these are the key ingredients in creating and sustaining a positive relationship with you. Offering the best price-to-performance ratio on the market We make products that strike a unique balance between quality, performance, and economy. Simplifying motion control Most of our products are ready to...

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Prototyping and Testing As we get started designing a new product, one of our first steps is to build rough prototypes of the product or different sections of the product. We’ll whip up some parts in the machine shop and build things like drive assemblies so we can have something in our hands as fast as possible. These concept prototypes are not usually pretty, but we always learn a lot that we couldn’t tell from a computer model or from calculations. Just by holding it in your hands, you learn a lot from how it feels and moves. It’s common to find some detail that has to be changed when assembling...

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Our Products Automate Positioning Tasks Quickly and Easily • Motorized positioners with optional built-in controllers, drivers, motor encoders, and linear encoders • Daisy-chain and control devices from a single computer connection (USB or Serial) • Multiple products can share a single power supply • Free software with source code Vacuum Devices Vacuum stages and actuators with built-in controllers Multi-Axis Devices Linear actuators with built-in controllers Multi-axis systems with built-in controllers Gantry systems Miniature linear stages with built-in controllers Vertical lift stages...

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When you talk, we listen; we continually expand and improve our product line based on your feedback. www.zaber.com Expandable Design Easy Installation Automating more than one axis? You can daisy-chain up to 254 Zaber devices to a single RS-232 or USB port. Power can be transmitted through the data cables of T-Series and X-Series devices, allowing multiple devices of the same series to be powered from a single power supply. Minimal hardware and cabling make Zaber products easy to set up and help reduce clutter on the workbench. Connect the Zaber controller (built into the device or stand-alone)...

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About Our Products Built-in controllers simplify your set-up Many of our devices are designed with built-in controllers and drivers (and some with encoders), which reduces your cost, overall device footprint, and cable clutter. Don’t want the integrated controllers? We have versions compatible with our external controllers too. The choice is yours: enjoy complete automation through computer control, or use manual control Zaber devices are perfect for automating your positioning needs. Our free software allows you to send single commands or complex sequences. Most models offer a manual control...

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Daisy-chaining Data and Power to Reduce Cabling Technical Paper Daisy-chaining Data and Power to Reduce Cabling By Sofia Moreno, Applications Engineer etting up motion control systems can be time consuming, costly, and complex. At Zaber, we focus on simplifying motion control. One way our systems can save you time and money is by reducing the number of cables required for a multi-axis system. While there are a few ways to reduce cabling, in this case we will be discussing daisy-chaining both data and power for multiple Zaber devices. Daisy-chaining refers to the connection of several devices...

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Figure 4: Voltage ratings for different series.

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Daisy-chaining Data and Power to Reduce Cabling Considerations for powering daisy-chained devices include: • Can the devices daisy-chain power? • What is the recommended voltage for each device? • What is the maximum current draw1 or motor rated current 2 ? • Which series are daisy-chained together? • In what order should they be connected if there is more than one series in a daisy-chain? The recommended voltage and maximum current draw for a device, or in the case of peripherals, the motor rated current and recommended voltage for a stand-alone controller, can be found online in the ‘Series...

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