THORLABS LNR25 Series User manual

LNR25 Series
25 mm Translation Stage
User Guide
Original Instructions
HA0221T

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LNR25 Series 25 mm Translation Stage
20479-D02
Contents
Chapter 1 For Your Safety ......................................................................................3
1.1 Safety Information............................................................................................3
Chapter 2 Overview ..................................................................................................4
2.1 Introduction......................................................................................................4
2.1.1 Drives.............................................................................................................................5
Chapter 3 Installation...............................................................................................6
3.1 Unpacking.........................................................................................................6
3.2 Mounting............................................................................................................6
3.2.1 General..........................................................................................................................6
3.2.2 Mounting Directly to the Work Surface......................................................................7
3.2.3 Fitting and Removing the Base Plate........................................................................8
3.2.4 Building an XY Configuration......................................................................................9
3.2.5 Building an XYZ Configuration.................................................................................10
3.2.6 Locking Mechanism...................................................................................................13
3.3 Fitting and Removal of Drives ......................................................................14
3.4 Reconfiguring the Actuator Position............................................................15
3.5 Mounting Equipment to the Stage................................................................17
3.6 Transportation.................................................................................................17
3.7 Dimensions.....................................................................................................18
3.7.1 LNR25M......................................................................................................................18
3.7.2 LNR25D.......................................................................................................................19
3.7.3 LNR25ZFS..................................................................................................................20
Chapter 4 Operation...............................................................................................21
4.1 Manual Micrometer and Differential Drives................................................21
4.1.1 Adjusting Micrometer Drives.....................................................................................21
4.1.2 Adjusting Differential Drives......................................................................................21
4.2 Stepper Motor Operation...............................................................................22
4.2.1 Compatible Drivers and Software............................................................................22
4.2.2 Initial System Setup In APT......................................................................................23
4.2.3 Initial System Setup In Kinesis ........................................................................24
4.2.4 Stepper Actuator Maintenance........................................................................24
Chapter 5 Specifications.......................................................................................25
5.1 With Micrometer and Differential Drives......................................................25
5.2 With ZFS25B Stepper Motor Drive...............................................................25
5.3 LNR25 Stage Construction ..........................................................................25
Chapter 6 Accessories...........................................................................................26
Chapter 7 Regulatory.............................................................................................27
Chapter 8 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts..........................................................30

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LNR25 Series 25 mm Translation Stage
HA0221T Rev D Jul 2021
Given when there is a risk of injury from electrical shock.
Shock Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury to users.
Warning
Given when there is a risk of damage to the product.
Caution
Clarification of an instruction or additional information.
Note
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 absorbent tissue. Do not allow spilled fluid
to enter the internal mechanism.
The equipment is for indoor use only.
Warnings
Chapter 1 Safety
1.1 Safety Information
For the continuing safety of the operators of this equipment, and the protection of the
equipment itself, the operatorshould 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.
1.2 General Warnings

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Chapter 2 Overview
2.1 Introduction
The LNR25 series stages offer stability, and high load capacity, making them an ideal
solution for all translation applications. Designed with the highest quality linear rails
available, the performance is further enhanced by using thermally matched materials
that ensure its stability. The rigidity of the all-steel construction, along with the
heavy-duty cross-roller bearings, provides uniform performance over the entire
range of motion.
The stages in the series are fitted with a variety of mechanical and motorized
actuators:
Standard micrometers: The LNR25M and LNR25M/M are imperial and metric
versions of the stage, fitted with our standard 1” (25 mm) micrometers (150-801ME or
150-811ST). These deliver 0.025” (0.5 mm) translation per revolution over the 1"
(25 mm) travel range and have 0.001” (10 µm) graduation marks.
Differential micrometers: For applications that require increased resolution, the
LNR25D and LNR25D/M models are fitted with a DM12 differential actuator. The
coarse adjustment of this provides 500 µm translation per revolution over the full 25
mm (1”) travel range. The coarse adjustment can be locked using a thumbscrew
located on the mounting collar, whereupon a differential adjustment mechanism
provides 25 µm (0.001”) of translation per revolution, over a 250 µm (0.01”) range.
The differentialadjustment knob features a vernier with 0.5 µm graduations.
Stepper motor drives: The LNR25ZFS is fitted with our ZFS25B 25 mm (0.98”)
compact stepper motor actuator. The actuators allow very small step sizes over the
entire travel range, delivering greater flexibility with negligible backlash and fine
resolution. The design incorporates a 44:1 gear reduction head which, when
combined with the 49,152 microsteps per revolution offered by the KST101 stepper
motor driver gives a theoretical travel per microstep of 0.46 nm. The stepper motor
allows for continuously variable speeds and the actuators use integrated hard stops
thatautomaticallycut the power when they have reached their mechanical limits.

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Motor drives must be used in conjunction with the recommended motor
controller - see www.thorlabs.com for more details.
Note
All stages can be bolted together in an XY or XYZ configuration for applications where
movement is required in more than one axis.
Fig. 2.1 LNR25 series linear long travel stage – typical XYZ configuration
2.1.1 Drives
Stages are supplied pre-configured with either manual or motor drives. However,
various motorized and manual drives are available, which can easily be fitted later as
the application needs change – see Table 2.1 below.
Table 2.1 Drive Options
Drives Type Travel
(mm)
Product Number Controller
Stepper Motor Drive
25.0
ZST225B
KST101
Compact Stepper Motor Drive
25.0
ZFS25B
KST101
Imperial Micrometer Drive
25.0
150-811ST
-
Metric Micrometer Drive
25.0
150-801ME
-
Differential Drive
25.0
DM12
-

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Chapter 3 Installation
3.1 Unpacking
Notes
During handling or shipping, the moving platform must be constrained to
avoid damage to the bearings.
Retain the packing inwhich the unit was shipped, for use in future transportation.
The following sections include examples which show the fitting and
removal of micrometer drives. The process for fitting/removing motorized
drives is the same.
Caution
The stage is shipped with a plate fitted to the side, which locks the
carriage during transit and in applications where accidental
adjustment is undesirable. The locking screw on these plates must be
loosened before the stage is used - see Section 3.2.6.
3.2 Mounting
3.2.1 General
The LNR25 series stages can be mounted directly to the work surface as shown in
Section 3.2.2. For additional versatility, a base plate and angle bracket are available
for use in horizontal or vertical mounting configurations - see Section 3.2.3. to
Section 3.2.5.
Warning
If the stage is mounted close to solid objects, items can become trapped
when the stage is operated, particularly if motor actuators are fitted.
Care must be taken to keep fingers away from any moving parts if the
stage is mounted closer than 25 mm (1.0”).
Caution
When mounting the stage close to 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 25 mm total, that is
±
12.5 mm
about the central position.
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.

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The LNR series stages can quickly be assembled into XY, XZ, YZ and XYZ
configurations - see Section 3.2.4. and Section 3.2.5. The brackets and
plates are supplied complete with all bolts and dowels, which ensure an
accurate, orthogonal assembly.
Note
2
1
The stage is shipped in standard configuration, but the drives can be repositioned for
applicationswhere space is limited - seeSection 3.4. for more details.
3.2.2 Mounting Directly to the Work Surface
Referring to Fig. 3.1, proceed as follows:
1) Adjust the actuator 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 two bolts (M6 x 10 or 1/4-20 x 3/8”, not supplied) through the holes in the top
platform and tighten to secure the stage to the work surface.
Fig. 3.1 Bolting the stage to the work surface

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2
4
1
4
3
3.2.3 Fitting and Removing the Base Plate
Referring to Fig. 3.2, proceed as follows:
1) Fit the dowels supplied to the base plate (LNR25P1).
2) Position the stage on the base plate, ensuring that the dowels locate correctly in
the holes in the lower surface of the stage.
3) Fit two bolts supplied (M6 x 8 or 1/4-20 x 5/16”)through the holes in the underside
of the base plate, and tighten to secure the stage in place.
Fig. 3.2 Fitting the base plate
4) Fit two bolts (M6 or 1/4-20, not supplied) through each end of the base plate to
fix the stage to the work surface.
5) To remove the base plate, reverse the procedure above.

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3
2
1
Use only bolts ofthestated length. Longerbolts will protrude into the stage and
damage the internal mechanism.
Caution
3.2.4 Building an XY Configuration
Bolt the X-axis stage to the work surface as detailed in Section 3.2.3. then, referring
to Fig. 3.3, proceed as follows:
1) Fit the dowels supplied to the moving platform of the lower stage.
2) Fit the Y-axis stage into place ensuring that the dowels in the lower stage locate
correctly in the holes in the lower surface of the upper stage.
Fig. 3.3 Building an XY Configuration
3) Fit two bolts (M6 x 10 or 1/4-20 x 3/8”, not supplied) through the holes in the upper
stage and tighten to securethestage to the moving platform of the stagebeneath.

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3
2
1
3.2.5 Building an XYZ Configuration
Assemble an XY configuration as detailed in Section 3.2.4. then, referring to Fig. 3.4,
and Fig. 3.5 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 (LNR25P2) 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. 3.4 Fitting the Angle Bracket
3) Fit the two bolts supplied (M6 x 8 or 1/4-20 x 5/16”), through the holes in the base
of the angle bracket, and tighten to secure the bracket to the XY assembly.

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Use only bolts ofthestated length. Longerbolts will protrude into the stage and
damage the internal mechanism.
Caution
4) Fit the dowels supplied to the underside of the base on the vertical-axis stage.
5) Fit the vertical-axis stage into place ensuring that the dowels fitted at item (4)
locate correctly into the holes in the back surface of the angle bracket.
6) Fit the two bolts supplied (M6 x 8 or 1/4-20 x5/16”), through the holes in the angle
bracket, and screw into the base of the vertical-axis stage.

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4
6
5
.
Fig. 3.5 Adding a Vertical Axis Stage

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3.2.6 Locking Mechanism
The stage is shipped with a plate fitted to the side, which locks the carriage during
transit, and in applications where accidental adjustment is undesirable. The locking
screw on these plates should be loosened before the stage is used as shown in Fig.
3.6.
this screw before use
Fig. 3.6 Loosening the Locking Screw
Loosen

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1
6
4
3
2
5
3.3 Fitting and Removal of Drives
The stages are shipped with the actuators already fitted. If a drive needs to be
replaced, refer to Fig. 3.7 and proceed as follows:
1) Ensure that the carriage is locked by tightening the locking screw.
2) Loosen the mounting block actuator pinch bolt.
3) Remove the existing drive.
4) Fit the replacement drive.
5) Tighten the mounting block pinch bolt.
6) Adjust the drive to position the actuator rod against the push block.
7) Loosen the carriage locking screw.
Fig. 3.7 Fitting/removing a drive

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1
2
3
During items (4) and (5) the blocks can be fitted to either side of the stage, for
left- or right-handed configuration. For clarity, Fig. 3.9 shows the blocks being
fitted to the same side from which they were removed. If they are to be fitted to
the opposite side of the stage, the locking plate will also need to be removed.
Notes
3.4 Reconfiguring the Actuator Position
The stage is shipped with the drives configured for ease of use in a right-handed
configuration, however they can be repositioned for applications where space is
limited, or for left-handed use. This is achieved by swapping the position of the
actuator clamp and the push block as follows:
Referring to Fig. 3.8:
1) Remove the actuator as detailed in Section 3.3.
2) Undo the mounting block attachment bolts and remove the mounting block.
3) Undo the push block attachment bolts and remove the push block.
Fig. 3.8 Removing the Actuator Clamp and Push Block
Referring to Fig. 3.9 on the next page:
4) Refit the push block in the alternative position as shown in Fig. 3.9 and tighten the
attachment bolts.

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6
5
4
5) Refit the mounting block in the alternative position as shown in Fig. 3.9 and tighten
the attachment bolts.
6) Refit the actuator, then tighten the mounting block pinch bolts.
7) Adjust the drive to position the actuator rod against the push block.
8) Loosen the carriage locking screw.
Fig. 3.9 Reconfiguring the Actuator Position

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3.5 Mounting Equipment to the Stage
Caution
The load attached to a moving platform must be limited to its capacity: this is
partly dependent on the actuator type being used.
For the LNR25ZFS(/M) stages:
Do not exceed 5 kg (11 lbs) if the stage is mounted horizontally, or 0.5 kg
(1.1 lbs) if mounted vertically.
For the LNR25M(/M) and LNR25D(/M) stages:
Do not exceed 20 kg (44 lbs) if the stage is mounted horizontally, or 8 kg
(17.6 lbs) if mounted vertically.
Do not apply excessive forces to the moving platform.
The top platform of the stage features an array of mounting holes for fitting
accessories such as fiber clamps, mirror mounts etc. - see Fig. 3.10.
3.6 Transportation
Caution
When packing the unit forshipping, use the original packing. Ifthis is not
available,use a strong box and surround the unit with at least 100 mm of
shock absorbent material.
Before the stage is packed for transit, adjust the actuators to the center of
travel and then tighten the locking mechanism - see Section 3.2.6.

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3.7 Dimensions
3.7.1 LNR25M
All Dimensions in inches (mm)
7 x 1/4-20 (M6)
Tapped Holes 0.5
(12.5)
2.36
(60.0)
1.00
(25.0)
2 x Counterbored Holes
To Suit 1/4-20 (M6)
Socket Cap
2.36
(60.0)
1.00
(25.0)
0.5
(12.5)
1.18
(30.0)
3.07
(78.0)
2.6
(66.1)
Nominal
0.59
0.59
0.59
2 x Alignment Pin Holes
For X,Y, Z Configuration
(15.0) (15.0) (15.0)
Locking Screw
Fig. 3.10 Dimensions – LNR25M (micrometer drives)
Min. Extension 127.6 (5.02”)
Max. Extension 140.6 (5.54”)
0.79
(20.0)

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3.7.2 LNR25D
All Dimensions in inches (mm)
7 x 1/4-20 (M6)
Tapped Holes
2.36
(60.0)
1.00
(25.0)
3.07
(78.0)
2.36
(60.0)
1.00
(25.0)
0.5
(12.5)
1.18
(30.0)
2 x Counterbored Holes
To Suit 1/4-20 (M6)
Socket Cap
1.59
(40.5)
Nominal
Locking Screw
Fig. 3.11 Dimensions – LNR25D (differential drives)
Min. Extension 102.0 (4.02”)
Max. Extension 115.0 (4.53”)
0.79
(20.0)
2 x Alignment Pin Holes
0.59
0.59
0.59
For X, Y, Z Configuration
(15.0)
(15.0)
(15.0)

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3.7.3 LNR25ZFS
All Dimensions in inches (mm)
7 x 1/4-20 (M6)
Tapped Holes 0.5
(12.5)
2.36
(60.0)
1.00
(25.0)
2 x Counterbored Holes
To Suit 1/4-20 (M6)
Socket Cap
2.36
(60.0)
1.00
(25.0)
0.5
(12.5)
1.18
(30.0)
3.07
(78.0)
0.59 0.59 0.59 2 x Alignment Pin Holes
(15.0)
(15.0)
(15.0)
For X, Y, Z Configuration
0.75
(19.0)
2.81
(71.5)
Min. Extension 133.0 (5.24”)
Max. Extension 145.5 (5.73”)
0.79
(20.0)
Locking Screw
Fig. 3.12 Dimensions – LNR25ZFS (stepper motor drive)