THORLABS MicroBlock MBT Series User manual

HA0049T
MBT Series
MicroBlock 3-Axis Flexure
Stage
User Guide
Original Instructions

Page 0
Contents
Chaper 1 Introduction .................................................................................................1
1.1 Description of the MicroBlock 3-Axis Flexure Stage ......................1
1.2 Drives ...................................................................................................1
1.3 Accessories .........................................................................................2
Chaper 2 Safety ...........................................................................................................3
2.1 Safety Information ..............................................................................3
2.2 General Warnings ...............................................................................3
Chaper 3 Operation .....................................................................................................4
3.1 Using Micrometer Drives ...................................................................4
3.2 Stage Orientation ................................................................................4
Chaper 4 Installation ...................................................................................................5
4.1 Unpacking ...........................................................................................5
4.2 Attaching to a Work Surface ..............................................................5
4.3 Fitting an Extended Top Platform .....................................................6
4.4 System Stability ..................................................................................7
4.5 Mounting Equipment to the Moving Platform .................................. 7
4.6 Transportation .................................................................................... 7
4.7 Dimensions .........................................................................................8
4.7.1 Top platform ............................................................................................ 8
Chaper 5 Specification and Parts List .......................................................................9
5.1 Specification .......................................................................................9
Chaper 6 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts ..........................................................10

Rev 12 April 2021 Page 1
Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1 Description of the MicroBlock 3-Axis Flexure Stage
The MicroBlockTM is a versatile, independent three-axis nanopositioning stage which
has been developed to meet the stringent requirements associated with aligning fiber
optics. The top-mounting platform can be adjusted along three translational axes —
x, y, and z — with respect to the base. It features a nominal working platform height
of 62.5 mm and provides a common optical-axis height of 75 mm.
Fig. 1.1 MBT616D MicroBlock with micrometer actuators
1.2 Drives
The MicroBlock is available with a choice of drives, a differential micrometer drive
(MBT616D) and a thumbscrew drive (MBT602).
The differential micrometer has 4mm of fine position adjustment with 0.5 mm travel
per revolution, and 300µm of ultra fine adjustment, with 50 µm per revolution making
it ideal for aligning single-mode fibers. The simpler thumbscrew, fine-threaded drives
for use with less demanding multimode fiber-optic systems provide 4 mm of fine
position adjustment with a 500 µm travel per revolution.

Page 2
1.3 Accessories
A comprehensive range of accessories is available to allow the MicroBlock to hold
and manipulate optical fibers, diode lasers, gradient-index lenses, spherical ball
lenses, and other commonly used optical components. The accessories are mounted
to the top platform using a tongue-in-groove system and are retained with cleats and
capscrews – see Fig. 1.2. Three extended top platforms are also available for use
when end-firing or butt-coupling to small lightwave devices.
A platform bracket can be attached to the side of the MicroBlock to provide a fixed-
world platform adjacent to the moving platform – see Fig. 1.3. This allows accessories
to be mounted at the fixed optical axis height of 75mm, adjacent to the accessories
being translated. Alternatively, the top plate can be replaced with the AMA011 right
angle top plate, which provides a convenient, vertical mounting surface for attaching
other components or accessories to the stage.
Fig. 1.2 Tongue-in-groove system
Fig. 1.3 Fixed platform bracket
A series of pre-configured fiber launch systems is also available - search fiber launch
systems at www.thorlabs.com for further details.
cleat
accessory tongue
alignment groove

Rev 12 April 2021 Page 3
Chapter 2 Safety
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.
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.
Spillage of fluid, such as sample solutions, should be avoided. If spillage does
occur, clean up immediately using absorbent tissue. Do not allow spilled fluid to
enter the internal mechanism.

Page 4
Chapter 3 Operation
3.1 Using Micrometer Drives
The unit is shipped with the top platform at the nominal position (i.e. center of travel).
Turning the actuator gives ±2 mm of travel from this nominal position.
All axes have travel-limiting stops to prevent overdriving. When the travel limit is
reached do not continue to drive the stage. The direction of travel of the actuators to
reach the travel limits is shown in Fig. 3.1.
Fig. 3.1 Actuator travel to reach travel stops
The micrometer drives are marked with a graduated scale, as shown in Fig. 3.2.
Fig. 3.2 Reading micrometer drives
3.2 Stage Orientation
Caution
The stage is designed to be mounted horizontally as shown in the images
throughout this manual. Internally, a series of springs provides the pre-load for
the actuators and this pre-load will be reduced or removed if the stage is
mounted in any orientation other than horizontal, which may result in degraded
performance.
Coarse adjustment
Fine adjustment
Scale index mark
1.0 μm intervals

Rev 12 April 2021 Page 5
Chapter 4 Installation
Chapter 4 Installation
4.1 Unpacking
The stage is shipped with a transit locking plate fitted which must be removed before
the stage can be used - see Fig. 4.1. Two knurled locking screws are also included.
The shorter screw can be fitted once the transit plate has been removed, to lock the
actuator position. The longer locking screw performs the same function when an
AMA009 or AMA007 mounting bracket if fitted.
Fig. 4.1 Removing the Transit Locking Plate
4.2 Attaching to a Work Surface
The base of the MicroBlock is provided with a number of fixing holes and slots for
attachment to metric or inch optical tables, as supplied by Thorlabs and other
manufacturers. Bolting the unit down minimizes the risk of damage.
Caution
Once removed from its packaging, the MicroBlock is easily damaged by
mishandling. The unit should only be handled by its base, not by the top
platform or any attachments to the top platform.
Note
Retain the packing in which the unit was shipped, for use in future transportation.
Fit Knurled Locking Screw
in this hole once the Transit
Plate is removed.

Page 6 11056-D01
MicroBlock Three-Axis Flexure Stage
When mounting the MicroBlock close to other equipment, ensure that the travel of the
moving platform is not obstructed. If the moving platform is driven against a solid
object, damage to the internal flexures could occur. The range of travel on each axis
is 4 mm total, that is  2 mm about the nominal position.
4.3 Fitting an Extended Top Platform
The extended top platform is available in three lengths: AMA001 85mm, AMA003
95mm amd AMA003 105mm. They are convenient for attaching components or
accessories which need to reach into smaller spaces.
To fit an extended top plate:
1) Remove the four retaining screws (see Fig. 4.2).
2) Remove the top plate and fit the extended top plate.
3) Refit the screws removed at item (1) and tighten to 85cNm (7.5 lb in).
Fig. 4.2 Fitting an extended top platform
4 screws

Rev 12 April 2021 Page 7
Chapter 4 Installation
4.4 System Stability
The MicroBlock has been designed using traditional precision engineering techniques
combined with flexure technology for precise, stable and frictionless motion. Extreme
care and precise matching of tolerances and components coupled with the fine thread
adjusters or differential micrometer drives, ensure that MicroBlock provides the best
possible positional accuracy and stability.
The threads used for the drive screws are very finely made with the correct clearances
and lubrication. The lubricants and choice of material employed in the design and
manufacture are critical to the performance and stabitlity of the MicroBlock. Changing
the thread lubricant may adversely affect the performance of the whole system.
4.5 Mounting Equipment to the Moving Platform
Thorlabs manufacture a variety of fibre chucks, holders and fixtures to fit the
MicroBlock stage, which are mounted on the top platform.
4.6 Transportation
Caution
To avoid damaging the internal flexures:
The weight attached to the moving platform must not exceed 1 kg.
Do not apply excessive forces to the moving platform.
When mounting devices to the stage, do not use screws which protrude into the
internal mechanism.
Caution
When packing the unit for shipping, use the original packing.
If this is not available, use a strong box and surround the MicroBlock with at
least 100 mm of shock absorbent material.

Page 8 11056-D01
MicroBlock Three-Axis Flexure Stage
4.7 Dimensions
4.7.1 Top platform
Fig. 4.3 Top platform
B holes M3 (6-32 UNC)
20
(0.79)
20
(0.79)
7.5
(0.3)
60 (2.36) A
60
(2.36)
Product No
AMA001
AMA003
AMA005
A
28 (1.10
35 (1.38)
45 (1.77)
B
12 (0.47)
12 (0.47)
14 (0.55)
30.0 (1.18)
17.0 (0.67) 17.0 (0.67)
20.0 (0.79) 20.0 (0.79)
5.3 (0.21)
5.3 (0.21)
20.0 (0.79) 20.0 (0.79)
17.0 (0.67) 17.0 (0.67)
5.3 (0.21) 5.3 (0.21)
10.0 (0.39)
10.0 (0.39)
10.0 (0.39) 10.0 (0.39)
30.0 (1.18)
60.0 (2.36)
7.5
(0.3)
7.5 (0.3)
3 Pitches of 15.00 (0.59) = 45.0
3 Pitches of 15.00 (0.59) = 45.0
60.0 (2.36)
4.0 (0.16)
1.6 (0.06)
3.0 (0.12)
3.00 (0.12)
1.6 (0.06)
all dimensions in millimetres (inches)