THORLABS BPC301 User manual

HA0248T
BPC301
Benchtop Piezo Controller
User Guide
Original Instructions

Page -1
Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
Contents
Chaper 1 Overview ......................................................................................................1
1.1 Introduction .........................................................................................1
1.2 PC Software Overview ........................................................................3
1.2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................. 3
1.2.2 Kinesis Server ......................................................................................... 3
1.2.3 Software Upgrades ................................................................................. 4
Chaper 2 Safety ...........................................................................................................5
2.1 Safety Information ..............................................................................5
2.2 General Warnings ...............................................................................5
Chaper 3 Setup ............................................................................................................6
3.1 Installing the Software .......................................................................6
3.2 Mechanical Installation ......................................................................7
3.2.1 Siting ....................................................................................................... 7
3.2.2 Environmental Conditions ....................................................................... 7
3.3 Electrical Installation ..........................................................................8
3.3.1 Connecting To The Supply ..................................................................... 8
3.3.2 Fuses ...................................................................................................... 8
3.3.3 Powering Down The Unit ........................................................................ 8
3.3.4 Rear Panel Connections ......................................................................... 9
3.4 Front Panel Controls and Indicators ...............................................11
3.5 Button Operation ..............................................................................12
3.5.1 Resolution Button ................................................................................. 12
3.5.2 Zero Button ........................................................................................... 12
3.5.3 Max Voltage Button .............................................................................. 13
3.6 Control Potentiometer Operation ....................................................13
3.6.1 Moving the Piezo using the ‘Control’ Potentiometer ............................. 13
3.7 Adjusting the Display Brightness ...................................................14
3.8 Connecting The Hardware ...............................................................14
3.9 Verifying Software Operation ..........................................................15
3.9.1 Initial Setup ........................................................................................... 15
Continued...

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 0
Chaper 4 PC Operation - Tutorial ........................................................................... 16
4.1 Introduction ...................................................................................... 16
4.2 Using the Kinesis Software ............................................................. 16
4.3 Setting the Position Sensor Zero .................................................... 17
4.4 Moving the Piezo .............................................................................. 18
4.4.1 Entering the piezo position ................................................................... 18
4.4.2 Jogging the Piezos ............................................................................... 19
4.5 Using the Controller as a Piezo Amplifier ...................................... 19
4.6 Choice of Display Mode ................................................................... 20
4.7 Thermal Shutdown ........................................................................... 20
4.8 Using the Controller with a Force Sensor ...................................... 21
4.9 Using the MZF001 Joystick ............................................................. 22
4.10 Load Response ................................................................................. 23
Chaper 5 Software Reference .................................................................................. 24
5.1 GUI Panel .......................................................................................... 24
5.2 Settings Panel ................................................................................... 25
5.2.1 Persisting Settings to the Hardware ..................................................... 25
5.2.2 Control tab. ........................................................................................... 26
5.2.3 Advanced Tab ...................................................................................... 28
Appendices
Appendix A Rear Panel Connector Pinout Detail ...................................... 29
Appendix B Preventive Maintenance ......................................................... 35
Appendix C Specifications........................................................................... 36
Appendix D Piezo Operation - Background................................................ 38
Appendix E Regulatory ............................................................................... 41
Appendix F Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts ................................................ 43

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
Chapter 1 Overview
1.1 Introduction
This controller is designed for use in critical alignment applications where nanometer
level motion control is required. These high power units deliver up to 150V/500mA per
channel and are compatible with all piezo-actuated nanopositioning actuators &
stages in the Thorlabs range.
The unit combines the latest highspeed digital signal processors (DSP) with low-noise
analog electronics for effortless single-axis motion. Additional axes can be driven by
connecting one or more benchtop units via a standard USB hub.
Manual controls are located on the front face of the unit to allow manual adjustment
of the piezo position using the digitally encoded adjustment pot. The display is easy
to read and can be set to show either applied voltage or position in microns. Open or
closed loop control , maximum drive voltage, and zeroing of the piezo can also be
selected from the front panel.
Fig. 1.1 Single Channel Piezo Controller (BPC301)
The piezo controller is supplied with a full suite of software support tools. An intuitive
graphical instrument panel allows immediate control and visualization of the operation
of the piezo controller, and any other controllers that are installed in the system. See
Section 1.2. for a full description of the system software.

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 2
Chapter 1 Overview
The piezo unit operation is fully configurable (parameterized) with key settings
exposed through the associated graphical interface panel. Open or closed loop
operating modes can be selected 'on the fly', and in both modes the display can be
changed to show drive voltage or position (in microns). In the closed loop operation
mode, both the P & I (proportional and integral) components of the feedback control
loop can be altered to adjust the servoloop response. For convenience and ease of
use, adjustment of many key parameters is possible through direct interaction with the
graphical panel. For example, the output drive voltage or position can be adjusted by
entering a value in the display window (see the tutorial in Chapter 4 for further details).
Note that all such settings and parameters are also accessible through the
programmable interfaces which allow the user to build automated alignment routines.
See Section 1.2. for a full description of the Kinesis software.
The key innovation of the Thorlabs range of controllers and associated mechanical
products is the ease and speed with which complete automated alignment systems
can be engineered at both the hardware and software level. All controllers in the
range are equipped with USB connectivity. The 'multi-drop' USB bus allows multiple
units to be connected to a single controller PC using commerical USB hubs and
cables. When planning an alignment application, simply add up the number and type
of drive channels required and connect together the associated number of
controllers. In the remainder of this handbook, the Tutorial section (Chapter 4)
provides a good initial understanding on using the unit, and the reference section
(Chapter 5) covers all operating modes and parameters in detail.

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
1.2 PC Software Overview
1.2.1 Introduction
The BPC303 piezo controllers feature USB connectivity (allowing multiple units to be
used together on a single PC), fully featured Graphical User Interface (GUI) panels,
and extensive software function libraries for custom application development.
The Kinesis software suite provides a flexible and powerful PC based control system
both for users of the equipment, and software programmers aiming to automate its
operation.
The User Interface allows full control of all settings and operating modes enabling
complete ‘out-of-box’ operation without the need to develop any further custom
software. It provides all of the necessary system software services such as generation
of GUI panels, communications handling for multiple USB units, and logging of all
system activity to assist in hardware trouble shooting. The Kinesis server is also used
by software developers to allow the creation of advanced automated positioning
applications very rapidly and with great ease. The server is described in more detail
in the following section.
1.2.2 Kinesis Server
With the Kinesis system, .Net Controls are deployed to allow direct control over (and
also reflect the status of) the range of electronic controller units, including the Piezo
controller. Software applications that use .Net Controls are often referred to as 'client
applications'. A .Net Control is a language independent software component.
Consequently the controls can be incorporated into a wide range of software
development environments for use by client application developers. Development
environments supported include Visual Basic, Labview, Visual C++, C++ Builder,
HPVEE, Matlab, VB.NET, C#.NET and, via VBA, Microsoft Office applications such as
Excel and Word.
Consider the control supplied for the BPC301 controller.
The system provides a separate control for each piezo drive channel to allow the
piezo unit to be manually operated, as well as a complete set of software functions to
allow all parameters to be set and operations to be automated by a client application.
The instrument panel reflects the current operating state of the driver unit to which it
is associated (e.g. such as piezo drive voltage). Updates to the panel take place
automatically when a user (client) application is making software calls into the same

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 4
Chapter 1 Overview
Control. For example, if a client application instructs the associated Piezo Control to
move an actuator, the progress of that move is reflected automatically by changing
position readouts on the graphical interface, without the need for further programming
intervention.
The Kinesis Controls collection provides a rich set of graphical user panels and
programmable interfaces allowing users and client application developers to interact
seamlessly with the Kinesis hardware. Each of the Kinesis controllers has an
associated .Net Control and these are described fully in the handbooks associated
with the controllers.
Fig. 1.2 System Architecture Diagram
Refer to the main Kinesis Software online help file, for a complete programmers
guide. This is available either by pressing the F1 key when running the Kinesis server,
or via the Start menu, Start\Programs\Thorlabs\Kinesis\Kinesis Help.
1.2.3 Software Upgrades
Thorlabs often releases updated firmware for bug fixes and support for new features.
We recommend all users to download the latest version of Kinesis software and use
the included firmware update utility.

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
Chapter 2 Safety
2.1 Safety Information
For the continuing safety of the operators of this equipment, and the protection of the
equipment itself, the operator should take note of the Warnings, Cautions and Notes
throughout this handbook and, where visible, on the product itself.
The following safety symbols may be used throughout the handbook and on the
equipment itself.
2.2 General Warnings
Warning: Risk of Electrical Shock
Given when there is a risk of injury from electrical shock.
Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury to users.
Caution
Given when there is a risk of damage to the product.
Note
Clarification of an instruction or additional information.
Warning
If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. In particular, excessive
moisture may impair operation.
Spillage of fluid, such as sample solutions, should be avoided. If spillage does
occur, clean up immediately using absorbant tissue. Do not allow spilled fluid to
enter the internal mechanism.
The equipment is for indoor use only.
The equipment is not designed for use in an explosive atmosphere.

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 6
Chapter 3 Setup
Chapter 3 Setup
3.1 Installing the Software
DO NOT CONNECT THE CONTROLLER TO YOUR PC YET
1) Go to Services/Downloads at www.thorlabs.com and download the Kinesis
Software.
2) Run the .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions.
Caution
Some PCs may have been configured to restrict the users ability to load
software, and on these systems the software may not install/run. If you are in
any doubt about your rights to install/run software, please consult your system
administrator before attempting to install.
If you experience any problems when installing software, contact Thorlabs on
[phone] and ask for Technical Support.
Caution
If your PC becomes unresponsive (e.g due to an operating system problem,
entering a sleep state condition, or screen saver operation) for a prolonged
period, this will interrupt communication between the APT Software and the
hardware, and a communications error may be generated. To minimize the
possibility of this happening it is strongly recommended that any such modes
that result in prolonged unresponsiveness be disabled before the software is
run. Please consult your system administrator or contact Thorlabs technical
support for more details.

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
3.2 Mechanical Installation
3.2.1 Siting
The unit is designed to be mounted free standing on a shelf, benchtop or similar
surface.
3.2.2 Environmental Conditions
Location Indoor use only
Maximum altitude 2000 m
Temperature range 5oC to 40oC
Maximum Humidity Less than 80% RH (non-condensing) at 31°C
To ensure reliable operation the unit should not be exposed to corrosive agents or
excessive moisture, heat or dust.
If the unit has been stored at a low temperature or in an environment of high humidity,
it must be allowed to reach ambient conditions before being powered up.
Caution
When siting the unit, it should be positioned so as not to impede the operation
of the rear panel power supply switch.
Ensure that proper airflow is maintained to the rear of the unit.
Warning
Operation outside the following environmental limits may adversely affect
operator safety.
Caution
In applications requiring the highest level of accuracy and repeatability, it is
recommended that the controller unit is powered up approximately 30 minutes
before use, in order to allow the internal temperature to stabilize.

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 8
Chapter 3 Setup
3.3 Electrical Installation
3.3.1 Connecting To The Supply
3.3.2 Fuses
Two T 3.15A/250V a.c. antisurge ceramic fuses are located on the back panel, one
for the live feed and one for the neutral.
When replacing fuses:
1) Switch off the power and disconnect the power cord before removing the fuse
cover.
2) Always replace broken fuses with a fuse of the same rating and type.
3.3.3 Powering Down The Unit
Warning: Risk of Electrical Shock
The unit must be connected only to an earthed fused supply of 85V to 264V.
Use only power supply cables supplied by Thorlabs, other cables may not be
rated to the same current. The unit is shipped with appropriate power cables for
use in the UK, Europe and the USA. When shipped to other territories the
appropriate power plug must be fitted by the user. Cable identification is as
follows:
Brown Live
Blue Neutral
Green/Yellow Earth/Ground
Warning
Piezo actuators are driven by high voltages. Voltages up to 150V may be
present at the SMC connector. This is hazardous and can cause serious injury.
Appropriate care should be taken when using this device.
Persons using the device must understand the hazards associated with using
high voltages and the steps necessary to avoid risk of electrical shock.
The piezo controller must be switched OFF before the piezo actuator is plugged
in or unplugged. Failure to switch the controller off may result in damage to
either the controller, the stage or both.
Warning
The controller may cause drive voltage spikes on power down. In applications
requiring the highest sensitivity, the piezo drive voltage should be set to zero,
and the HV cable disconnected before the unit is powered down.

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
3.3.4 Rear Panel Connections
Fig. 3.1 Rear panel connections
AUX IO - This female 15-Pin D-type connector exposes a number of internal electrical
signals. For convenience, a number of logic inputs and outputs are included, thereby
eliminating the need for extra PC based IO hardware. These user programmable logic
lines can be deployed in applications requiring control of external devices such a
relays, light sources and other auxilliary equipment - see Section A.2. for further
details.
TRIG IN – Reserved for future use, not implemented at this time.
TRIG OUT – Reserved for future use, not implemented at this time.
USB - USB port for system communications.
HANDSET IN - Provides connection for the MZF001 Jopystick - see Section 4.9. and
Section A.4.
INTERCONNECT - For Future Use.
CH ID - For channel selection when using the MZF001 joystick - see Section 4.9.
EXT IN (+) and EXT IN (-) (BNC connector) – Used to control the output voltage
(open loop) or position of the piezo actuator(closed loop) from an external source.
These inputs allow a 0V to 10V input to drive the output to its full scale. This gives a
gain of 7.5 on the 75V range, 10 on the 100V range and 15 on the 150V range. The
Note
The USB cable length should be no more than 3 metres unless a powered USB hub
is being used.

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 10
Chapter 3 Setup
gain values are predefined with a tolerance of +/- 2%. The input impedence is 20k
load.
The exact bandwidth achievable is dependent on a variety of factors, such as the load
capacitance but in general is a few kHz in open loop mode and about 200 Hz in closed
loop.
Before they can be used, these inputs must be enabled in the Settings panel (see
Section 5.2.) or in software by calling the appropriate function (see the Online helpfile
available from the Windows ‘Start’ menu).
The difference between the two signals is amplified internally before being routed to
the HV OUT connector. The high voltage amplifier output will be 0V when the positive
input is equal to the negative input, and will be at full scale (75V, 100V or 150V
depending on the voltage range selected) when the positive input minus the negative
input equals 10V. If either input is unconnected, it contributes 0V. The differential
nature of these inputs can be useful in some applications, as they reject unwanted
common mode signals. Although they are differential, these inputs can also be used
in single-ended mode. In this configuration, the +ve input can be considered as non-
inverting and the -ve input as inverting. The unused input can simply be left
unconnected.
PIEZO IN – This Female 9-Pin D-type connector receives the signal from the position
sensor (strain gauge) of the piezo actuator to provide the feedback for the control loop
- see Section A.1. for pin out details.
HV OUT (SMC connector) – 0 to 150V, 0 to 500mA. Provides the drive signal to the
piezo actuator.
Caution
It is recommended that only cables supplied by Thorlabs are used to connect
the piezo drive outputs. Other cables may not be rated to the same
specification. If using third party cables for the high voltage output, the HV cable
used must have insulation able to withstand 200V DC / 150V AC.

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
3.4 Front Panel Controls and Indicators
The front panel controls of the BPC301 piezo controller allow the unit to be operated
as a standalone unit, without the need to connect to a PC.
Fig. 3.2 Front panel controls and indicators
Digital Display – Shows the voltage applied to the piezo actuator/stack or the
position (in microns).
Microns LED – Indicates that the display is showing the piezo position in microns. If
the LED is not lit, the display is showing the output voltage in Volts.
Zeroed LED – Indicates that the piezo has been zeroed. This LED flashes during the
zeroing operation.
Closed LED – Indicates that the unit is operating in Closed Loop mode. If the LED is
not lit, the unit is operating in open loop.
Volts/Microns Button – Selects either Volts or Microns to be displayed.
Open/Closed Loop Button – Selects Open or Closed Loop mode.
Note
The main digital display will flash when the ‘Ident’ button is clicked on the GUI panel
- see Section 5.1. for further details.
apt Piezo Controller
Zero Open/Closed Loop Resolution Max Voltage
Control
Modes
Volts/Microns
Microns Zeroed Closed

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 12
Chapter 3 Setup
Zero Button – Initiates the zeroing routine - see Section 3.5.2.
Control Potentiometer – Used to adjust the voltage applied to the piezo actuator/
stack.
Resolution Button – Toggles the ‘Control’ potentiometer between ‘Coarse’ and
‘Fine’ adjustment and ‘Parked’ mode - see Section 3.5.1.
Max Voltage Button – Used to adjust the maximum drive voltage output - see
Section 3.5.3.
3.5 Button Operation
3.5.1 Resolution Button
The resolution button cycles the behaviour of the Control potentiometer between
‘Coarse’ and ‘Fine’ adjustment, and ‘Parked’ mode.
In ‘Coarse’ mode, one revolution of the pot varies the output by a factor of 10 greater
than in ‘Fine’ mode. In ‘Open loop’ mode, the full voltage range corresponds to about
12 turns of the pot in ‘Coarse’ mode. In ‘Parked’ mode, the ‘Control’ potentiometer is
disabled, and turning it has no effect.
At power up, the resolution defaults to ‘Coarse’.
3.5.2 Zero Button
The position sensor is a strain gauge fitted to the piezo actuator. Due to limitations in
manufacture, the strain gauge may give a small signal when the actuator is at zero
position with zero volts applied. This ‘offset’ signal must be removed before the
position attained by a specific applied voltage and the position attained by a
corresponding specified distance can be rationalized.
Each actuator has a unique offset value. Therefore the offset should be adjusted
whenever an actuator is replaced. Temperature and prolonged use can affect the
performance of the strain gauge and therefore the offset value. It is good practice to
adjust the offset value whenever the unit is powered up.
To adjust the offset zero:
1) Click the ‘Zero’ button. Notice that the ‘Zeroed’ led flashes to indicate that zeroing
is in progress.
Note
The ‘Zero’ and ‘Open/Closed Loop’ buttons perform the same function as their
respective equivalents on the software GUI panel. If a control PC is connected,
pressing these buttons has the same effect as pressing the correspondingGUI
button. Similarly, the ‘Zeroed’ and ‘Closed’ LEDs correspond to the virtual button
lights on the GUI.
The ‘Volts/Microns’ button is similar in function to the ‘Volts’ button on the GUI but it
operates independently. For example, it is possible to display microns on the GUI
but volts on the front panel.

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
2) When the zeroing move has been completed, the ‘Zeroed’ LED is lit and the
controller switches to closed loop mode.
3.5.3 Max Voltage Button
The Max Voltage button sets the max limit of the drive output voltage. When the
button is pressed and released, the present limit flahes on the main display. The
voltage may be cycled through 75 V, 100 V and 150 V by turning the control
potentiometer. The new limit is saved by pressing and releasing the Max Voltage
button again..
3.6 Control Potentiometer Operation
The ‘Control’ potentiometer is an infinite turn encoder, used to adjust and set the
voltage or position output as displayed in the main digital display. To increase the
drive voltage, turn the potentiometer clockwise - once the maximum voltage (75V) is
attained, subsequent clockwise turns do not effect the output, however the voltage
decreases immediately the control is turned anticlockwise. Similarly, once the voltage
has been decreased to 0V, subsequent anticlockwise turns do not effect the output,
but the voltage increases immediately the control is turned clockwise.
If the channel is in closed loop mode (set using the 'closed loop' button on the panel)
then this control can be used to adjust position output. If open loop mode is selected
(using the 'open loop' button) then the control is used to adjust the voltage output.
3.6.1 Moving the Piezo using the ‘Control’ Potentiometer
1) Press the ‘Open/Closed Loop’ button until the ‘Closed’ LED is lit. The unit is now
in Closed Loop mode.
2) Press the ‘Volts/Microns’ button until the ‘Microns’ LED is lit. The display now
shows the piezo position in microns.
3) Rotate the ‘Control‘ potentiometer clockwise. Notice how the position display
increments to show the increasing piezo position.
4) Rotate the ‘Control’ anticlockwise. Notice how the position display decrements to
show the decreasing piezo position.
5) Press the ‘Volts/Microns’ button until the ‘Microns’ LED is extinguished. Notice
how the display changes to show the voltage associated with the current piezo
position.
Note
Legacy piezo stages (i.e. those fitted with an ident resistor) are driven by 75 V. The
server will detect automatically if such a stage is fitted and in this case will limit the
max voltage to 75 V.

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 14
Chapter 3 Setup
3.7 Adjusting the Display Brightness
The display brightness can be adjusted in relation to the ambient light conditions.
To adjust the brightness:
1) Press and hold the Resolution button and turn the Control potentiometer.
3.8 Connecting The Hardware
1) Connect the piezo actuator to the Controller unit.
2) Connect the Controller unit to the power supply and switch ‘ON’.
3) Connect the Controller unit to your PC.
4) WindowsTM should detect the new hardware. Wait while WindowsTM installs the
drivers for the new hardware - see the Getting Started guide for more information
5) Run the Kinesis software
Start/Programs/Thorlabs/Kinesis/Kinesis.
6) Your Piezo Controller is now ready for use.
See Chapter 4 of this manual, for a brief tutorial on operation of the unit.
Note
The USB cable should be no more than 3 metres in length. Communication lengths
in excess of 3 metres can be achieved by using a powered USB hub).

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
3.9 Verifying Software Operation
3.9.1 Initial Setup
1) Install the software as detailed in Section 3.1.
Connect the controller to the actuators (see Section 3.3.4.) and the PC, then switch
ON. Wait approximately 5 seconds for the system to settle.
2) Run the software and check that the Graphical User Interface (GUI) panel appears
and is active.
Fig. 3.3 Gui panel showing jog and ident buttons
3) Click the ‘Identify’ button. The digital display of the associated channel on the front
panel of the controller flashes. This is useful in multi-channel systems for
identifying which channel is associated with which GUI.
4) Click the ‘Step’ buttons on the GUI panel to move the piezo or axis connected to
the controller. The position display for the associated GUI should increment and
decrement accordingly.
Follow the tutorial described in Chapter 4 for further guidance on basic operation.
Caution
In applications requiring the highest level of accuracy and repeatability, it is
recommended that the controller unit is powered up approximately 30 minutes
before use, in order to allow the internal temperature to stabilize.

Rev F Mar 2022 Page 16
Chapter 4 PC Operation - Tutorial
Chapter 4 PC Operation - Tutorial
4.1 Introduction
The following brief tutorial guides the user through a typical series of actions and
parameter adjustments performed using the software. It assumes that the unit is
electrically connected as shown in Section 3.3.4. and that the software is already
installed - see Section 3.1. It also assumes that a piezo-actuated stage is connected
to the ‘HV OUT and PIEZO IN’ connectors on the rear panel.
Warning: Risk of Electrical Shock
Piezo actuators are driven by high voltages. Voltages up to 150V may be
present at the SMC connector. This is hazardous and can cause serious injury.
Appropriate care should be taken when using this device.
Persons using the device must understand the hazards associated with using
high voltages and the steps necessary to avoid risk of electrical shock.
The piezo controller must be switched OFF before the piezo actuator is plugged
in or unplugged. Failure to switch the controller off may result in damage to
either the controller, the stage or both.
Caution
Thorlabs often releases updated firmware for bug fixes and support for new
features. We recommend all users to download the latest version of Kinesis
software and use the included firmware update utility. Failure to do this could
result in stages not being recognized by the latest controllers.
Caution
If your PC becomes unresponsive (e.g due to an operating system problem,
entering a sleep state condition, or screen saver operation) for a prolonged
period, this will interrupt communication between the Kinesis Software and the
hardware, and a communications error may be generated. To minimize the
possibility of this happening it is strongly recommended that any such modes
that result in prolonged unresponsiveness be disabled before the software is
run. Please consult your system administrator or contact Thorlabs technical
support for more details.

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Single-Channel Piezo Controller, 75 V to 150 V
4.2 Using the Kinesis Software
The Kinesis software allows the user to interact with any number of hardware control
units connected to the PC USB Bus. This program allows multiple graphical
instrument panels to be displayed so that multiple units can be controlled. All basic
operating parameters can be set through this program, and all basic operations (such
as piezo moves) can be initiated.
This tutorial shows how the Kinesis application provides all of the functionality
necessary to operate the hardware.
1) Power up the hardware, and wait until the BPC301 has finished booting up, then
run the software - Start/All Programs/Thorlabs/Kinesis/Kinesis. The software
registers automatically the units connected on the USB bus and displays the
associated GUI panels as shown in Fig. 4.1.
Fig. 4.1 Typical User Screen
Notice how the maximum travel for the associated piezo is displayed at the bottom left
of the GUI display.
4.3 Setting the Position Sensor Zero
The position sensor is a strain gauge fitted to the piezo actuator. Due to limitations in
manufacture, the strain gauge may give a small signal when the actuator is at zero
position with zero volts applied. This ‘offset’ signal must be removed before the
position attained by a specific applied voltage and the position attained by a
corresponding specified distance can be rationalized.
Each actuator has a unique offset value. Therefore the offset should be adjusted
whenever an actuator is replaced. Temperature and prolonged use can affect the
performance of the strain gauge and therefore the offset value. It is good practice to
adjust the offset value whenever the unit is powered up.
To adjust the offset zero:
1) In the GUI panel, click the ‘Zero’ button. Notice that the led in the button flashes
to indicate that zeroing is in progress and the displayed position counts down
towards zero (but may not reach zero).
2) When the zeroing move has been completed, the ‘Zero’ LED is lit.