PI A-311.F Series User manual

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
Page 1 of 26
PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
16 Albert Street, Auburn, MA 01501
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
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A-311.F & G Series
PIglide Compact Planar XY Air Bearing Stage
Linear Motor Driven with Encoder Feedback

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
Page 2 of 26
PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
16 Albert Street, Auburn, MA 01501
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Physik Instrumente (PI) GmbH & Co. KG is the owner of the following trademarks:
PI®, PIC®, PICMA®, PILine®, PIFOC®, PiezoWalk®, NEXACT®, NEXLINE®, NanoCube®, NanoAutomation®,
Picoactuator®, PInano®, PIMag®
PI owns the following patents or patent applications for the technology field Magnetic Direct Drives (PIMag®):
WO212146709A2, DE102012207082A1
© 2021 PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P. The text, photographs and drawings in this manual are protected by
copyright. With regard thereto, PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P. retains all the rights. Use of said text, photographs
and drawings is permitted only in part and only upon citation of the source.
Subject to change without notice. This manual is superseded by any new release. PI continually improves its
product offerings, and listed options and specifications may be superseded at any time.

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
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PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
16 Albert Street, Auburn, MA 01501
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Table of Contents
1. About this Document ____________________________________________________________________5
1.1. Objective and Target Audience of this User Manual ________________________________________5
1.2. Symbols and Typographic Conventions __________________________________________________5
1.3. Other Applicable Documents __________________________________________________________5
2. Safety ________________________________________________________________________________6
2.1. Intended Use ______________________________________________________________________6
2.2. General Safety Instructions ___________________________________________________________6
2.3. Warnings and Safety Notices __________________________________________________________6
2.4. Organizational Measures _____________________________________________________________8
3. Product Description _____________________________________________________________________8
3.1. Model Overview and Part Numbering ___________________________________________________8
3.2. Product Features ___________________________________________________________________9
3.3. Product Labeling__________________________________________________________________ 10
3.4. Scope of Delivery _________________________________________________________________ 10
3.5. Accessories & Cables ______________________________________________________________ 10
3.6. Compatible Controllers ____________________________________________________________ 11
4. Technical Features ____________________________________________________________________ 11
4.1. Air Bearing ______________________________________________________________________ 11
4.2. Linear Motor_____________________________________________________________________ 11
4.3. Linear Encoder ___________________________________________________________________ 11
4.4. Stage Lockdown Control (Optional) ___________________________________________________ 11
5. Unpacking and Handling________________________________________________________________ 12
6. Installation __________________________________________________________________________ 13
6.1. Mounting Surface Quality and Preparation _____________________________________________ 13
6.2. Mounting Procedure ______________________________________________________________ 14
6.3. Removing the shipping lock(s) _______________________________________________________ 14
6.4. Air & Vacuum Supply ______________________________________________________________ 15
6.5. Affixing the Payload to the Stage _____________________________________________________ 15
6.6. Connecting the Stage to Protective Earth ______________________________________________ 16

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
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PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
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6.7. Connecting the Cables _____________________________________________________________ 17
6.8. Axis Designation __________________________________________________________________ 17
7. Startup and Operation of the Stage _______________________________________________________ 18
8. Maintenance_________________________________________________________________________ 19
8.1. Cleaning the Stage ________________________________________________________________ 19
8.2. Preparing the Stage for Transport ____________________________________________________ 20
9. Customer Service _____________________________________________________________________ 21
10. Technical Data _____________________________________________________________________ 22
10.1. Basic Specifications______________________________________________________________ 22
10.2. Motor Electrical Specifications_____________________________________________________ 23
10.3. Encoder Specifications ___________________________________________________________ 23
10.4. Ambient Conditions _____________________________________________________________ 23
10.5. Dimensions____________________________________________________________________ 24
10.6. Electrical Connector Pin Assignments (at Stage IO Panel) ________________________________ 25
11. EC Declaration of Conformity__________________________________________________________ 26
12. Old Equipment Disposal ______________________________________________________________ 26
Table of Figures
Figure 1 - Product Features, A-311.F&G _________________________________________________________9
Figure 2 -Product Labeling Example__________________________________________________________ 10
Figure 3 - Mounting Surface Quality___________________________________________________________ 13
Figure 4 - Shipping Lock____________________________________________________________________ 14
Figure 5 - Payload Mounting Holes ___________________________________________________________ 15
Figure 6 - Mounting of the protective earth conductor (profile view) __________________________________ 16
Figure 7 - A-311.F&G Series Stage Dimensions _________________________________________________ 24

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
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PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
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1. About this Document
1.1. Objective and Target Audience of this User Manual
This manual contains information on the intended use of the A-311.It assumes that the reader has a
fundamental understanding of basic servo systems as well as motion control concepts and applicable safety
procedures.
1.2. Symbols and Typographic Conventions
The following symbols and markings are used in this User Manual:
Symbol
Meaning
If not avoided, the situation could result in damage to the equipment.
Failure to observe these precautions could result in serious injury to
those performing the procedures and damage to the equipment.
1.
2.
Action consisting of several steps whose sequential order must be
observed
➢
Action consisting of one or several steps whose sequential order is
irrelevant
1.3. Other Applicable Documents
None at this time

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
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2. Safety
2.1. Intended Use
The A-311 is a laboratory device as defined by DIN EN 61010. It is intended to be used in interior spaces and in
an environment which is free of dirt, oil and lubricants.
In accordance with its design and realization, the A-311 is intended for single-axis positioning of loads at different
velocities. The A-311 is not intended for applications in areas in which a failure would present severe risks to
human beings or the environment.
The A-311 is intended for horizontal mounting only in which the plane of the stage tabletop is level and parallel to
the plane of the ground. The stage cannot be used inverted.
The intended use of the A-311 is only possible when completely mounted and connected.
The A-311 must be operated with a suitable controller. The controller is not included in the scope of delivery of
the A-311.
2.2. General Safety Instructions
The A-311 is built according to state-of-the-art technology and recognized safety standards. Improper use can
result in personal injury and/or damage to the A-311.
➢Only use the A-311 for its intended purpose, and only use it if it is in a good working order.
➢Read the user manual.
➢Immediately eliminate any faults and malfunctions that are likely to affect safety.
➢The operator is responsible for the correct installation and operation of the A-311.
2.3. Warnings and Safety Notices
The following statements apply throughout this manual. Failure to observe these precautions could result in
serious injury to those performing the procedures and damage to the equipment. This manual and any additional
instructions included with the stage should be retained for the lifetime of the stage.
To minimize the possibility of electrical shock and bodily injury or death, disconnect all electrical
power prior to making any electrical connections.
To minimize the possibility of electrical shock and bodily injury or death when any electrical circuit
is in use, ensure that no person comes in contact with the circuitry when the stage is connected to
a power source.
To minimize the possibility of bodily injury or death, disconnect all electrical power prior to making
any mechanical adjustments.
To minimize the possibility of bodily injury or death from electric shock in the case of malfunction or
failure of the system, make sure a protective earth conductor is properly connected.
Moving parts of the stage can cause crushing or shearing injuries. All personnel must remain clear
of any moving parts.

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
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The stage table should never be moved without the air supply turned on. Moving the stage table
with no air supply, causing sliding metal-to-metal contact, may damage the bearing surfaces.
Improper use of the stage can cause damage, shock, injury, or death. Read and understand this
manual before operating the stage.
If the stage is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the
stage can be impaired.
Stage cables can pose a tripping hazard. Securely mount and position all stage cables to avoid
potential hazards.
Do not expose the stage to environments or conditions outside the specified range of operating
environments. Operation in conditions other than those specified can cause damage to the
equipment.
The stage must be mounted securely. Improper mounting can result in injury and damage to the
equipment.
Use care when moving the stage. Manually lifting or transporting stages can result in injury.
Use care when moving the stage. Avoid any shocks, drops or bumps that can cause scratches,
dings, dents, or distortion of the stage.
The stage contains high power magnets that can attract ferrous objects, such as loose screws.
Attracted objects can damage the stage. Make sure that there are no movable, ferrous objects
within a radius of at least 10 cm around the stage.
The stage contains high power magnets that can damage magnetically sensitive objects such as
magnetic data carriers and electronic devices. Make sure that there are no magnetically sensitive
objects within a radius of at least 10 cm around the stage.
Dirt, oil, lubricants and condensation will damage the stage. Keep the stage clean and free of dirt,
debris, oil, lubricants, and moisture.

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
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PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
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2.4. Organizational Measures
User manual
➢Always keep this user manual available near the A-311.
➢Add all information given by the manufacturer to the user manual, for example supplements or Technical
Notes.
➢If you pass the A-311 on to other users, also turn over this user manual as well as other relevant information
provided by the manufacturer.
➢Only use the device on the basis of the complete user manual. Missing information due to an incomplete
user manual can result in minor injury and property damage.
➢Only install and operate the A-311 after having read and understood this user manual.
Personnel qualification
The A-311 may only be installed, started up, operated, maintained and cleaned by authorized and appropriately
qualified personnel.
3. Product Description
3.1. Model Overview and Part Numbering
The A-311 series offers various models, defined by the travel range, encoder type, and motor option. The
dimensions of the various models vary with travel. Encoder and motor options do not affect the dimensions.
Model
Travel
Encoder
Motor Wiring
A-311
F = 300mm x 300mm
B = 1nm resolution absolute
BiSS-C serial output
1 = Standard motor
48 VDC nominal buss
G = 300mm x 400mm

User Manual
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3.2. Product Features
The PIglide IS planar XY air-bearing stage is a low profile, high precision alternative to stacked XY stages. The
fully preloaded air bearing puck floats in both X and Y directions on a common base, proving smooth, frictionless
motion.
The A-311 series stages all incorporate completely non-contact air bearing surfaces, linear motors, and feedback
devices to provide a maintenance free stage. There is no mechanical contact to wear or require lubrication,
making these stages ideal for clean room and medical applications. The A-311 incorporates opposing lateral
preload and magnetic vertical preload. The brushless linear motor uses an ironless motor coil, which means
there is zero cogging and no attractive forces –resulting in unsurpassed smoothness of motion. This is especially
useful in applications where velocity control is important.
The A-311.F & G Series features a gantry configuration, where the lower (Y) axis is driven by two motors and
uses two encoders for feedback. The upper (X) axis uses a single motor and encoder. The twin drive and
feedback mechanism on the lower axis allows for enhanced precision and dynamic performance.
Figure 1 - Product Features, A-311.F&G
#
Description
#
Description
1.
Stage base plate
2.
Moving table
3.
Moving cable loop –upper axis
4.
Moving cable loop –lower axis
5.
Linear motor –upper axis
6.
Moving beam
7.
Encoder electrical connections
8.
Motor electrical connections
9. M
Air & Vacuum supply inlet ports

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
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3.3. Product Labeling
Figure 2 -Product Labeling Example
#
Description
1.
Product model number (example shown)
2.
Serial number (example), individual for each A-311
Meaning of the places (counting from left):
A = PIglide Air Bearing Product
18 = year of manufacture (i.e. 2019)
223102 = consecutive unique number, 6-digit
3.
Warning sign “Observe manual”
4.
Old equipment disposal warning sign
5.
Country of origin
6.
Manufacturer’s address (website)
7.
Manufacturer’s logo
8.
CE mark
3.4. Scope of Delivery
Item ID
Component
A-311.xxx
XY stage according to the order
---
Stage Mounting Screws (M6 x 55 SHCS)
---
Transport lock kit and hardware
A311D0002
User manual (this document)
3.5. Accessories & Cables
The following accessories are offered to complement the A-311.F & G stageS. Contact PI for all available
configurations.
Part #
Description
A-805.28200
Air Prep Kit (Filter & Regulation), with Vacuum Generation, Panel Mounted,
10 SCFM Light Duty, 8 Channel, Pressure Switch
A-805.28200T
Air Prep Kit (Filter & Regulation), with Vacuum Generation, Panel Mounted,
10 SCFM Light Duty, 8 Channel, Pressure Switch, with 0.75L Storage Tank
A-853.B03
A-853.B05
A-853.B10
Cable set, A-311.FBx to A-8xx Series Controller, Absolute BiSS Encoder (1 set per stage)
3m
5m
10m

User Manual
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3.6. Compatible Controllers
The A-311 must be connected to a suitable motion controller to be operated. The following standard controllers
are available from PI to operate the A-311. Other controllers are also available, contact PI for options.
Part #
Description
A-8xx.xxxxx
PIglide A-81x & A-82x Family of Motion Controllers (4-8 Axes)
Requires ServoBoost upgrade to enable gantry control mode.
Minimum 4-Axis Controller is required.
4. Technical Features
4.1. Air Bearing
The A-311 series stage features fully preloaded, non-contact, frictionless air bearings to guide the motion of the
stage and support the payload. This air bearing is a highly accurate precision instrument. The non-contact
nature of the air bearings will provide years of accurate and reliable use if treated properly. Keep the bearing
clean and avoid any shocks, drops or bumps that can cause scratches, dings or distortion of the bearing.
The A-311 incorporates opposing lateral preload and vacuum vertical preload. The A-311 is unsuitable for
vertical orientations. The planar design of the stage allows motion in both X and Y directions orthogonal to each
other.
4.2. Linear Motor
The A-311 series stage features three brushless, ironless, linear 3-phase motors. This type of motor technology
is completely non-contact and is ideally suited to high speeds; high accelerations; fine resolution positioning; and
smooth, constant-velocity scanning. The motor must be commutated by an external motor drive.
4.3. Linear Encoder
The A-311 series stage features three optical non-contact linear encoders for direct measurement of the stage
position. This feedback signal is used by an external motion controller to close the servo loop for position and
velocity control.
The A-311 series stage only absolute encoders with BiSS-C 32-bit serial output. This eliminates the need for
complex homing routines and travel limit switches.
4.4. Stage Lockdown Control (Optional)
The A-311 stage can be equipped with an optional solenoid control valve that allows the vertical lift air bearing
supply to be turned off while the rest of the air bearing remains active. By cutting the vertical lift air, the stage
carriage is locked in place by friction. The solenoid valve is controlled via digital outputs on the motion controller.
Contact PI for additional information about the use of this option.

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5. Unpacking and Handling
Carefully unpack the air bearing stage and other components from the shipping packaging. Inspect the contents
for signs of damage. If there is any sign of damage or missing parts, contact PI immediately. Compare the
package contents to packing list and notify PI immediately if any parts are missing or incorrect. Keep all
packaging materials in case the product needs to be returned.
Before mounting or using the stage, it is recommended to let the stage stabilize at room temperature for at least
12 hours. Clean any dust or shipping debris off the stage by blowing it off with pressurized nitrogen or clean, oil-
free air.
If the stage will be mounted in such a way as to block the product label, it is recommended to record the stage
serial number for future reference.
The A-311 stage must always be transported and shipped with the shipping lock engaged. Failure
to use the shipping lock when moving, transporting, or shipping the stage may allow movement
between the stage table and stage base, causing damage.
The stage table should never be moved without the air supply turned on. Moving the stage table
with no air supply, causing sliding metal-to-metal contact, may damage the bearing surfaces.
Use care when moving the stage. Manually lifting or transporting stages can result in injury.
Use care when moving the stage. Avoid any shocks, drops or bumps that can cause scratches,
dings, dents, or distortion of the stage.
When lifting the A-311, take care to lift only by the base plate of the stage. Do not lift using any
other part of the mechanical system, or damage may occur.
The A-311 stage weighs up to 55 kg in its largest size. Use care when lifting and use two people to
lift.

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6. Installation
6.1. Mounting Surface Quality and Preparation
The A-311 is intended for horizontal mounting only in which the plane of the stage tabletop is level and parallel to
the plane of the ground.
The mounting surface should be flat and have adequate stiffness in order to achieve the maximum performance
from the A-311. When the A-311 series stage is mounted to a non-flat surface, the stage can be distorted as the
mounting screws are tightened. This distortion will decrease the overall accuracy of the stage. Adjustments to the
mounting surface must be done before the stage is secured. The effects of flatness on mounting are illustrated
below.
To maintain accuracy, the mounting surface should be flat within 1 µm per 150 mm. A laboratory grade AA
granite surface plate is recommended. Do not shim under the stage base.
Figure 3 - Mounting Surface Quality
Prepare the mounting surface and bottom of the stage base with precision flat stones to remove any burrs or high
spots. Clean the mounting surface and bottom of the stage with the appropriate cleaners (isopropyl alcohol).

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6.2. Mounting Procedure
1. Place the stage on the mounting surface.
2. Remove the shipping lock(s).
3. Connect the compressed air supply to the air prep kit.
4. Connect the air prep kit to the stage and turn on the air.
5. Move the stage table by hand if needed to access the mounting holes in the stage base.
6. Affix the stage base to the mounting surface using 6x M6 SHCS, 55mm long minimum.
The stage contains high power magnets that can attract ferrous objects, such as loose screws.
Attracted objects can damage the stage. Make sure mounting screws and tools are not pulled into
the motor magnet track.
7. Torque the mounting screws (begin from the center out for best accuracy). The typical maximum torque
value for M6 socket head cap screws is 15-20 N-m.
The stage should now be securely mounted. Make sure to allow sufficient clearance at the end of the stage to
attach the motor and encoder cables.
6.3. Removing the shipping lock(s)
The stage is shipped with a shipping lock installed to prevent unwanted motion between the stage table and the
stage base. To remove the shipping lock, remove the 4x M5 SHCS shipping bolts using a 4mm Allen key. Make
sure to safely store the shipping lock and bolts for future use, should the stage need to be moved or transported.
Figure 4 - Shipping Lock

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6.4. Air & Vacuum Supply
Air Requirements
The A-311 stage requires clean, oil-free, and dry compressed air to operate properly. See Section 10.1 Basic
Specifications for detailed air supply requirements.
It is recommended that a pressure switch is installed to monitor air supply pressure and to remove power from
the stage motor if supply pressure drops below 40 psig to prevent damage to the air bearing surfaces.
The air inlet fitting to the A-311 stage accepts flexible polyurethane pneumatic tubing, 6mm OD. Note that the air
fitting combines the three separate bearing lines on the stage into a single input to be used by the customer.
Vacuum Requirements
The A-311 stage requires vacuum to preload the air bearing. See Section 10.1 Basic Specifications for detailed
vacuum supply requirements.
Turning off the air supply when not in use
When the stage is not in use, the air supply may be turned off to preserve compressed air and energy.
The stage table should never be moved without the air supply turned on. Moving the
stage table with no air supply, causing sliding metal-to-metal contact, may damage the
bearing surfaces.
6.5. Affixing the Payload to the Stage
The payload should be flat, rigid, and comparable to the stage in quality. For valid system performance, the
mounting interface surface should be flat within 1 µm per 50 mm.
The stage tabletop features 32x M5x0.8 tapped holes for mounting the user’s payload. These are the only
features that should be used to attach a payload to the stage.
Figure 5 - Payload Mounting Holes
Prepare the payload mounting surface and the stage table with precision flat stones to remove any burrs or high
spots. Clean the payload mounting surface and the stage table with the appropriate cleaners (isopropyl alcohol).

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Do not attempt to modify the stage table in any way. Customer modifications may damage the
stage.
The M5 screws used to attach the payload to the stage table should not thread into the stage
tabletop any more than 8mm. Longer screws may damage the table.
Do not overtighten the payload mounting screws. A maximum torque of 10 N-m is
recommended.
Do not exceed the maximum payload specified for the A-311 stage. Payload CG should not be
cantilevered beyond the extents of the stage table.
The stage contains high power magnets that can attract ferrous objects, such as loose screws.
Attracted objects can damage the stage. Make sure mounting screws and tools are not pulled
into the motor magnet track.
6.6. Connecting the Stage to Protective Earth
To minimize the possibility of bodily injury or death from electric shock in the case of malfunction
or failure of the system, make sure a protective earth conductor is properly connected.
The A-311 has an M4 threaded hole for connecting the protective earth conductor. This hole is marked with the
symbol for the protective earth ground . The hole is located on bottom cable track bracket.
#
Description
1.
A-311 cable track bracket
2.
Flat washer (2x)
3.
Internal tooth washer (2x)
4.
M4 Screw
5.
Cable lug
6.
Protective earth conductor
Figure 6 - Mounting of the protective earth conductor (profile view)
1. If necessary, fasten a suitable cable lug to the protective earth conductor. Note that the conductor and lug
are not in the scope of delivery of the stage.
2. Fasten the cable lug of the protective earth conductor to the protective earth connection of the A-123 as
shown in the profile view using the M4 screw proved. You will need a 2mm Allen key.
3. Tighten the M4 screw with a torque of 1.2 Nm to 1.5 Nm.
4. Make sure that the contact resistance at all connection points relevant for mounting the protective earth
conductor is <0.1 Ω at 25 A.

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6.7. Connecting the Cables
Stage interconnect cables are not in the scope of delivery of the A-311 series stage. However, PI offers several
standard cable sets that can be used, depending on the motion controller being used. See Section 10.6 for
connector pin assignments.
Only use the interconnect cables that have been designed for the combination of stage and
controller being used. Connection using the wrong cable may result in damage to the stage and
the controller.
To minimize the possibility of electrical shock and bodily injury or death, disconnect all electrical
power prior to making any electrical connections.
To minimize the possibility of electrical shock and bodily injury or death when any electrical
circuit is in use, ensure that no person comes in contact with the circuitry when the stage is
connected to a power source.
To minimize the possibility of bodily injury or death, disconnect all electrical power prior to
making any mechanical adjustments.
1. Connect the stage cables for the motors and encoders to the connectors.
2. Tighten the jack screws with a flat head screwdriver to secure the cables. Do not overtighten the screws.
6.8. Axis Designation
The A-311 stage has two axes of motion. These two axes are often referred to by name and sometimes by
number. The table below cross-references the typical naming convention used.
Physical
Type
Coordinate
Upper
Cross
X
Lower
Dual Motor / Beam
Y

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7. Startup and Operation of the Stage
See the user’s manual of the controller being used with the A-311 stage for instructions about startup and
operation.
Note that the servo tuning values may need to be adjusted if the payload mass or size changes. If PI was not
given user application information at the time of order, the servo was tuned with no payload mass.
Moving parts of the stage can cause crushing or shearing injuries. All personnel must remain clear
of any moving parts.
Collisions can damage the stage and the payload.
➢Take care when operating the stage to ensure that no collisions are possible between the
stage, the load to be moved, and the environment in the motion range of the stage.
➢Do not place any objects in areas where they can be caught by moving parts.
➢Stop the motion immediately if a controller malfunction occurs.
Do not attempt to operate the stage with the shipping lock installed.
The A-311 can develop high forces and accelerations. If the stage has been improperly or
incompletely installed, the stage, the payload, and the environment can be damaged during
operation.
The stage table should never be moved without the air supply turned on. Moving the stage table
with no air supply, causing sliding metal-to-metal contact, may damage the bearing surfaces.
The drive mechanism of the A-311 is not self-locking. The stage can therefore unintentionally move
in the following cases:
▪Switching off or restarting the controller
▪Switching off the servo mode for the axis
Unintentional displacement can damage the stage, the payload to be moved, and the environment.
➢Only operate the A-311 with a horizontally aligned motion axis.
➢Before switching off or rebooting the controller, take suitable measures to ensure that no
unintentional displacement of the stage table is possible.
Do not exceed the operating voltage range for which the A-311 is specified.
Causing the stage table to hit the hard stop with maximum speed and force can cause damage to
the stage and the payload.
➢Stop the motion immediately if a controller malfunction occurs.
➢Ensure that the end of the travel range is approached at low velocity.
➢Setup the motion controller to observe end of travel limits (if applicable).
➢Determine the maximum velocity for your application.
➢Set suitable soft limits for closed-loop operation on the controller.

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16 Albert Street, Auburn, MA 01501
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
The optimum values of the servo-loop parameters in the controller depend on the application and
the payload mass. Unsuitable servo-control parameter settings of the controller can cause the
control loop to become unstable and for the stage to vibrate. Oscillations can damage the stage
and/or the load affixed to it.
➢If the stage is oscillating or exhibits unusual operating noise, immediately switch off the servo
mode for the axis on the controller or switch off the controller.
➢Only switch on the servo mode for the axis on the controller after you have modified the servo-
control parameter settings; see the manual of the controller.
➢Note that the servo tuning values may need to be adjusted if the payload mass or size
changes.
8. Maintenance
Other than basic cleaning, the A-311 series stage is maintenance-free.
8.1. Cleaning the Stage
To clean the stage bearing surfaces, use isopropanol and a clean, lint-free cloth or wipe. Apply the cleaning
agent to the cloth and wipe down all of the air bearing surfaces and the exposed encoder scales. When cleaning
the air bearing it is recommended to leave the air supply turned on to help blow any particles out of the bearing
and prevent particles from entering the nozzles. Be especially careful of fingerprints on the bearing surfaces as
they attract dust and may tarnish the bearing finish.
Do not use cleaning agents other than isopropanol. Agents such as acetone or other detergents
can damage certain parts of the stage.

User Manual
A311D0002 Rev 2.0
11-Nov-2021
Page 20 of 26
PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
16 Albert Street, Auburn, MA 01501
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
8.2. Preparing the Stage for Transport
If the stage requires movement, transport or shipping, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect stage cables.
2. Remove the payload.
3. Remove the stage base mounting screws. With the air supply on, move the stage table by hand if needed to
access the mounting holes in the stage base.
4. With the air supply on, move the stage table to one end of travel by hand.
5. Install the shipping lock but do NOT fully tighten the lock screws.
6. Turn off the air supply and disconnect the air supply line from the stage.
7. Tighten the 4x stage shipping lock bolts using a 4mm Allen wrench. The bolts should be tight enough to
prevent any motion of the bracket, but do not require a specific bolt torque.
The stage is now secured and can be safely moved. If the stage needs to be shipped, use the original packing
materials.
Use care when moving the stage. Avoid any shocks, drops or bumps that can cause scratches,
dings, dents, or distortion of the stage.
The stage table should never be moved without the air supply turned on. Moving the stage table
with no air supply, causing sliding metal-to-metal contact, may damage the bearing surfaces.
Do not attempt to move or transport the stage with the payload attached. This may damage the
stage and the payload.
When lifting the A-311, take care to lift only by the base plate of the stage. Do not lift using any
other part of the mechanical system, or damage may occur.
The A-311 stage weighs up to 55 kg in its largest size. Use care when lifting and use two people to
lift.