THORLABS LNR502 User manual

HA0404T
LNR502(/M)
Linear Long-Travel
Translation Stage with
Stepper Motor Actuator
User Guide
Original Instructions

ETN053043-D02
LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
Contents
Chapter 4 Installation ............................................................................................................................. 6
4.1 Unpacking .......................................................................................................................... 6
4.2 Environmental Conditions ............................................................................................... 6
4.3 Mounting ........................................................................................................................... 6
4.4 Fitting and Removal of Drives ................................................................................... 11
4.5 Reconfiguring the Actuator Position ............................................................................ 12
4.6 Mounting Equipment to the Stage ............................................................................... 13
4.7 Transportation ................................................................................................................ 13
Chapter 5 Specifications ..................................................................................................................... 14
5.1 Specifications ................................................................................................................ 14
5.2 How to Calculate the Linear Displacement ................................................................ 14
Chapter 6 Maintenance ....................................................................................................................... 15
6.1 Preventative Maintenance ............................................................................................. 15
Chapter 7 Regulatory ......................................................................................................................... 16
7.1 Declarations Of Conformity ......................................................................................... 16
Chapter 8 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts ......................................................................................... 17
Chapter 1 Overview ............................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Linear Long-Travel Translation Stage ............................................................................ 1
Chapter 2 Safety .................................................................................................................................... 2
2.1 Safety Information ........................................................................................................... 2
2.2 General Warnings ............................................................................................................. 2
Chapter 3 Operation .............................................................................................................................. 
3.1 Selecting the Stage Type .............................................................................................. 
3.2 Maintenance ..................................................................................................................... 
3.3 Pin Assignments .............................................................................................................. 
3.4 Extension Cables .............................................................................................................. 

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 1
Chapter 1 Overview
Chapter 1 Overview
1.1 Linear Long-Travel Translation Stage
The LNR502 single-axis linear long travel stage has been designed to integrate seamlessly into the Thorlabs modular
electronic or benchtop positioning systems. The unique combination of long-travel actuators and high-precision piezoelectric
elements provides solutions to applications such as manipulation, alignment and assembly of photonics products, and
microscope examination of large samples. When fitted with a piezoelectric actuator, the stage is compatible with the
Thorlabs NanoTrak® autoalignment module, allowing automated or semi-automated optical alignment systems to be
constructed around customer specific applications.
Stages can be bolted together in and XY, XZ or XYZ configurations for applications where movement is required in more
than one axis.
Fig. 1.1 LNR502 Linear Long Travel Stage – Typical XYZ Configuration

Page 2 ETN053043-D02
LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
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
These Motorized Actuators can generate high forces. If handled improperly, they may cause injury. Be aware that failure
of the motor controller may drive the unit into a hard stop and cause damage to the unit.
To avoid injury never put anything in the gap between the Actuator and any rigid structure.
Because it can be software controlled it should be noted that this device could begin to move unexpectedly for a person
within its envelope of operation who had not programmed the move.
Warning
If this equipment is used in a manner not specified in the handbook, 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.
Caution
If the actuator encounters a hard stop while still in the middle of its range (i.e. a translation stage at the end of its travel
range), the motor should be stopped as soon as possible to prevent damage and to keep the unit from overheating.
Caution
When storing these units, be sure to fully retract the lead screw to protect the threads from damage. Improper connection
of the motor will result in permanent damage. All power supplied to the motor should be turned off before altering any
connections to the motor. Check all connections before supplying power to the motor.

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 3
Chapter 3 Operation
Chapter 3 Operation
3.1 Selecting the Stage Type
To ensure that a particular stage is driven properly by the system, a number of parameters must first be set. These parameters relate
to the physical characteristics of the stage being driven (e.g. min and max positions, leadscrew pitch, homing direction, etc.).
To assist in setting these parameters correctly, it is possible to associate a specific stage type and axis with the motor controller
channel. Once this association has been made, the server applies automatically suitable default parameter values on boot up of
the software.
Using Kinesis Software
1) Install the electronic hardware and connect the modules to the relevant axes of the associated stages (see the handbooks
for the associated controller).
2) For each Stepper Motor Controller in your system, fit the interlock plug (supplied) to the MOTOR CONTROL connector on
the rear panel.
3) Ensure that the device is connected to the PC and powered up.
4) Run the Kinesis software - Start/All Programs/Thorlabs/Kinesis/Kinesis.
5) On start-up, the 'Actuator/Startup Settings’ window is displayed. This window allows the correct actuator to be selected.
Fig. 3.1 Select Actuator Stage Settings Window - 1
Note
To ensure correct operation, it is important to select the correct stage and axis type as described above. Selecting an
incompatible stage/axis type could result in reduced velocity and/or resolution, and in the worst case could cause the motor
to run into the end stops or home incorrectly.

Page 4 ETN053043-D02
LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
6) Click the arrow to the right of the window, and select your actuator type
(e.g. DRV250 for the LNR205 stages) from the list displayed.
Fig. 3.2 Select Actuator Stage Settings Window - 2
7) Click OK.
8) The server reads in the stage and controller information automatically.
Refer to the handbook for the associated controller for more information on driving the actuator/
stage.
3.2 Maintenance
After prolonged use, and particularly in applications where small movements are continually repeated, the grease on the
drive shaft may build up. This may cause rough or noisy movement, vibration, and excessive heating.
It is good practice to run the motor periodically from one end of travel to the other several times in order to redistribute the
grease.
Note
No customer serviceable parts. Return to manufacturer for service.

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 5
Chapter 3 Operation
3.3 Pin Assignments
Pin assignments for the male D-Type connector on the motor flying lead are described below.
Note * The limit switch ground wire is connected to the motor body.
Fig. 3.3 Output Connector
3.4 Extension Cables
The motor is supplied with a 0.5 m flying lead and a 3 m (PAA613) extension cable. Additional extension cables are
available separately - see www.thorlabs.com for more details.
Pin Description Pin Description
1Limit Ground * 9Ident (for Future Use)
2CCW Limit Switch 10 +5 V
3CW Limit Switch 11 Reserved for Future Use
4Motor Phase B - 12 Reserved for Future Use
5Motor Phase B + 13 +5 V
6Motor Phase A - 14 Reserved for Future Use
7Motor Phase A + 15 Ground
8Reserved for Future Use
5
10
11 15
6
1

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LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
Chapter 4 Installation
4.1 Unpacking
4.2 Environmental Conditions
Location
Maximum altitude
Temperature range
Maximum Humidity
Indoor use only
2000 m
5 °C to 40 °C
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.
The unit must not be used in an explosive environment.
4.3 Mounting
4.3.1 General
The LNR502 series stages are mounted to the work surface as shown in Fig. 4.1 using a base plate. For additional
versatility, an angle bracket is available for use in vertical mounting configurations - see Section 4.3.4. When mounting the
stage close to other equipment, ensure that the travel of the moving platform is not obstructed. If equipment mounted on
the moving platform is driven against a solid object, damage to the internal mechanism could occur.
The range of travel on each axis is 50 mm total, that is  25 mm about the nominal position.
The stage is shipped with the drives configured for right handed use, however they can be repositioned for applications where
left handed use is more convenient - see Section 4.5. for more details.
Caution
Once removed from its packaging, the stage is easily damaged by mishandling.
The stage is shipped with a plate fitted to the side, which locks the carriage during transit. These plates should be
removed before the stage is used. Retain the plates for future use.
Note
Retain the packing in which the unit was shipped for use in future transportation.
Warning
Operation outside the following environmental limits may adversely affect operator safety.
Caution
When mounting components, or fitting the stage within an application, do not apply excessive pressure to the moving
platform as this may damage the bearing mechanism.
Note
The LNR series stages can quickly be assembled into XY, XZ, YZ, and XYZ configurations - see Section 3.3.3. and Section
3.3.4. The brackets and plates are supplied complete with dowels, which ensure an accurate, orthogonal assembly.

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 7
Chapter 4 Installation
4.3.2 Mounting to the Work Surface
The stage is shipped secured to the base plate with 3/16" hex, 1/4"-20 (imperial version) or 5 mm hex, M6 (metric version)
cap screws. Skip steps 1 through 4 if starting with the base plate already attached.
Referring to Fig. 4.1, proceed as follows:
1) Turn the motor knob to position the moving carriage central in its range of travel, and ensure that the mounting holes in the
base are clearly visible through the holes in the top plate.
2) Fit the dowels supplied to the base plate (LNR50P4).
3) Position the stage on the base plate, ensuring that the dowels locate correctly in the holes in the lower surface of the stage.
4) Fit two bolts (M6 x 12 mm or 1/4"-20 x 1/2") through the holes in the top plate and into the base plate. Tighten to secure
the stage in place.
Fig. 4.1 Fitting the Base Plate
5) Fit three bolts (M6 or 1/4"-20, not supplied) through each end of the base plate to fix the stage to the work
surface.
6) To remove the base plate, reverse the procedure above.
1
4
1
2
5
3

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LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
4.3.3 Building an XY Configuration
Bolt the X-axis stage to the work surface as detailed in Section 4.3.2. then, referring to Fig. 4.2, proceed as follows:
1) Fit the dowels supplied to the moving platform of the lower stage.
2) Fit the spacer plate (LNR50P3) into place as shown below, ensuring that the dowels in the lower stage locate correctly in
the holes in the bottom surface of the spacer plate.
3) Fit a bolt (M6 x 12 mm or 1/4"-20 x 1/2", not supplied) through the hole in the center of the spacer plate and into the top
platform of the lower stage. Tighten the bolt to secure the plate in position.
Fig. 4.2 Fitting a Spacer Plate
3
2
1

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 9
Chapter 4 Installation
4) Fit the dowels supplied to the top surface of the spacer plate.
5) Fit the Y-axis stage into place ensuring that the dowels in the spacer plate locate correctly in the holes in the lower surface
of the stage.
6) Fit two bolts (M6 x 12 mm or 1/4"-20 x 1/2", not supplied) through the holes in the upper stage and tighten to secure the
stage to the spacer plate beneath.
Fig. 4.3 Fitting the Y-Axis Stage
Caution
Use only bolts of the stated length. Longer bolts will protrude into the stage and damage the internal mechanism.
6
5
4

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LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
4.3.4 Building an XYZ Configuration
Assemble an XY configuration as detailed in Section 4.3.3. then, referring to Fig. 4.4 and Fig. 4.5, proceed as follows:
1) Fit the dowels supplied into the moving platform on the upper stage of the XY assembly.
2) Fit the angle bracket (LNR50P2) onto the moving platform of the stage, ensuring that the dowels fitted at item (1) locate
correctly in the holes on the underside of the angle bracket.
Fig. 4.4 Fitting the Angle Bracket
3) Fit six bolts (M6 x 16 mm or 1/4"-20 x 5/8", not supplied), through the holes in the base of the angle bracket, and tighten to secure
the bracket to the XY assembly.
4) Fit the dowels supplied into the holes in the back surface of the angle bracket.
5) Fit the vertical-axis stage into place ensuring that the dowels fitted at item (4) locate correctly in the holes on the underside
of the stage.
Caution
Use only bolts of the stated length. Longer bolts will protrude into the stage and damage the internal mechanism.
3
2
1

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 11
Chapter 4 Installation
6) Fit two bolts (M6 x 12 mm or 1/4"-20 x 1/2", not supplied) through the holes in the top plate and screw into the rear face of the
angle bracket.
Fig. 4.5 Adding a Vertical Axis Stage
4.4 Fitting and Removal of Drives
1) Remove the motor mounting bolts (3 mm hex).
2) Remove the existing drive.
3) Fit the replacement drive.
4) Refit the motor mounting bolts.
Fig. 4.6 Fitting/Removing a Motor Drive
Caution
Use only bolts of the stated length. Longer bolts will protrude into the stage and damage the internal mechanism.
6
4
5
3
2
4
1

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LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
4.5 Reconfiguring the Actuator Position
The stage is shipped with the drives configured for a right handed configuration, however they can be repositioned for left
handed use. This is achieved by swapping the position of the actuator clamp and the push block as follows:
Referring to Fig. 4.7:
1) Remove the actuator as detailed in Section 4.4.
2) Loosen the push block pinch bolts (3 mm hex).
3) Remove the push block.
4) Undo the push block mounting bolts (3 mm hex) and remove the push block mounting block.
Fig. 4.7 Removing the Actuator Clamp and Push Block
Referring to Fig. 4.8:
5) Refit the push block mounting block on the opposite side of the stage as shown in Fig. 4.8 and tighten the attachment bolts.
6) Refit the push block pinch bolts but do not tighten.
7) Refit the push block, then tighten the push block pinch bolts.
8) Refit the motor actuator and tighten the mounting bolts.
9) Turn the motor knob until 25 mm of drive shaft is protruding.
10) Loosen the push block pinch bolts and position the push block such that the stage is in its center of travel.
11) Tighten the push block pinch bolts.
Fig. 4.8 Reconfiguring the Actuator Position
1
2
1
3
4
6
8
5
7

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 13
Chapter 4 Installation
4.6 Mounting Equipment to the Stage
Thorlabs manufactures a variety of fiber chucks, holders, and fixtures to fit the linear stage. All of these accessories are
mounted to the stage via a top platform, see Fig. 4.9.
Fig. 4.9 Top Platform. Values in parentheses apply to the metric stages.
4.7 Transportation
Caution
The weight attached to the moving platform must not exceed 10 kg.
Do not apply excessive forces to the moving platform.
Caution
The drives should be removed before transporting the stage.
When packing the unit for shipping, use the original packing. If this is not available, use a strong box and surround the
stage with at least 100 mm of shock absorbent material.
Counterbored Holes
to Suit 1/4" (M6) Cap
Screws (2 Places)
1.00"
(25.0 mm)
3.94"
(100.0 mm)
Square
1.00"
(25.0 mm)
1/4"-20 UNC (M6)
Threaded Thru Hole,
13 Places
2.00"
(50.0 mm)
3.00"
(76.2 mm)

Page 14 ETN053043-D02
LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
Chapter 5 Specifications
5.1 Specifications
5.2 How to Calculate the Linear Displacement
The DRV series motors have 200 full steps per revolution and when driven by the BSC20x or MST602 drivers there are 2048
microsteps per full step, giving 409,600 microsteps per revolution of the motor lead screw. The lead screw pitch is 1.0 mm
The linear displacement of the lead screw per microstep:
1 / 409600 = 2.4 x 10-6 mm
Item #
Translation
Travel Range 50 mm (1.97")
Bidirectional Repeatabilitya ±3.9 µm
Unidirectional Repeatability ±1.6 µm
Backlashb <6 µm
Min Achievable Incremental Movementc,d 0.05 µm
Min Repeatable Incremental Movementd,e 1 µm
Home Location Accuracy ±1.0 µm
Motion Parameters
Velocity (Max) 50 mm/s
Velocity Stability ±0.4 mm/s
Acceleration (Max) 50 mm/s2
Load Capacity
Vertical Load Recommended: ≤10 kg (22 lbs)f
Max: 10 kg (22 lbs)
Horizontal Load Recommended: ≤25 kg (55 lbs)f
Max: 48 kg (105 lbs)
Orthogonality
Pitch 0.03° (524 µrad)
Yaw 0.015° (262 µrad)
Bidirectional Accuracy 35 µm
Physical
Dimensionsg
Weight 2.8 kg (6.17 lbs)
a. The average of the repeatability when a set position is approached from both directions.
b. When a stage is moved to a position and then returned to its original position, some motion is lost
due to the lead screw mechanism. This loss is known as backlash.
c. The measured minimum incremental motion that the stage can achieve, also referred to as the
minimum step size.
d. If Used with a BSC201, BSC202, or BSC203 Controller
e. The minimum incremental motion that the stage can repeatedly achieve within its standard error.
f. Under Continuous Use
g. When DRV250 actuator is fully extended.
10.49" x 5.39" x 2.01"
(266.7 mm x 136.8 mm x 51.0 mm)
LNR502(/M)

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 15
Chapter 6 Maintenance
Chapter 6 Maintenance
6.1 Preventive Maintenance
Warning
The equipment contains no user serviceable parts. There is a risk of severe electrical shock if the equipment is
operated with the covers removed. Only personnel authorized by Thorlabs Ltd and trained in the maintenance of this
equipment should attempt any repairs or adjustments.

Page 16 ETN053043-D02
LNR502 Long Travel, Linear Stage with Stepper Motor Actuator
Chapter 7 Regulatory
7.1 Declarations Of Conformity
7.1.1 For Customers in Europe

Rev A Apr 2020 Page 17
Chapter 8 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts
Chapter 8 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts
Thorlabs verifies our compliance with the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive of the European Community
and the corresponding national laws. Accordingly, all end users in the EC may return "end of life" Annex I category electrical and
electronic equipment sold after August 13, 2005 to Thorlabs, without incurring disposal charges. Eligible units are marked with the
crossed out "wheelie bin" logo (see right), were sold to and are currently owned by a company or institute within the EC, and are not
dissembled or contaminated. Contact Thorlabs for more information. Waste treatment is your own responsibility. "End of life" units
must be returned to Thorlabs or handed to a company specializing in waste recovery. Do not dispose of the unit in a litter bin or at
a public waste disposal site.
USA, Canada, and South America
Thorlabs, Inc.
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
Europe
Thorlabs GmbH
[e-mail]
France
Thorlabs SAS S
[e-mail]
Japan
Thorlabs Japan, Inc.
[e-mail]
UK and Ireland
Thorlabs Ltd.
[email protected]om
[e-mail]
Scandinavia
Thorlabs Sweden AB
[e-mail]
Brazil
Thorlabs Vendas de Fotônicos Ltda.
[e-mail]
China
Thorlabs China
[email protected]
For technical support or sales inquiries, please visit us at www.thorlabs.com/contact for our most up-to-date
contact information.

www.thorlabs.com