High-Speed Motorized XY Scanning Stages

Overview
Specs
Pin Diagrams
MetaMorph
Motion Control Software
APT Tutorials
Feedback

A typical XY stage setup is comprised of an MLS203 stage, BBD202 XY Stage controller, MJC001 2-Axis Joystick, and inverted Olympus microscope.

Features

Integrates with Nikon, Olympus, Zeiss, and Thorlabs' Cerna^® Upright and Inverted Microscopes
Range of Sample Holders Available
Integrated Brushless DC Linear Servo Motor Actuators
Linear Optical Encoders
High-Quality, Precision-Engineered Linear Bearings
High Repeatability (0.25 µm) and Position Accuracy (<3 µm)
Compatible with Thorlabs' APT™, Molecular Devices' MetaMorph, and µManager Software

Thorlabs' MLS203 stages have been designed as drop-in replacements for the manual stages found on select Nikon, Olympus, Zeiss, and Cerna^® microscopes to provide motorized XY positioning of microscopy samples. A complete stage package consists of the stage itself, a controller, mounting brackets, and optional accessories; all of these items need to be purchased separately (typical XY stage setup is shown to the right). The table below outlines the items that should be purchased to form a stage package compatible with a particular microscope. Alternatively, optional mounting brackets (Item # MLSA01) enable the MLS203-1 stage to be bolted to an optical table or breadboard as part of a custom-built microscope setup or for use in typical photonics applications.

Characterized by high-speed scanning capabilities and high positional accuracy, these stages are ideal for manually or automatically positioning a wide range of specimens and samples in many types of microscopy or imaging techniques and applications. Very precise manual fine positioning and control at the cellular level is easily achieved through the combination of a stable closed-loop control system and an associated joystick option. In addition, the stages can be combined with our Z-Axis Piezo Stage to form an XYZ stage ideally suited for laser scanning microscopy.

The motorized stage techology is covered by US patent 8,575,792.

Controller Option
The recommended controller for the MLS203 stage is the BBD202 dual-axis Brushless DC Motor Controller. See below for a brief overview, or click here to view the full presentation for these Brushless DC Motor Controllers. The APT GUI interface ships with each controller. The stage is compatible with µManager, which is open-source software for controlling microscopes and peripherals, and Molecular Devices' MetaMorph, which is software that provides automated acquisition, control, and image analysis. For more details on using MetaMorph with the MLS203 stage and BBD202 controller, please see the MetaMorph tab above.

Specimen Holders and Accessories
We offer a range of adapters to allow the positioning of standard microscope slides, multiwell plates, petri dishes, and mounted metallurgical specimens. Please see the details below.

Complete Microscope Stage Assemblies

Microscope^a	Stage	Mounting Bracket	Controller	Optional Specimen Holders and Accessories
Thorlabs Cerna	MLS203-1	CSA1000	BBD202	MLS203P1: Multiwell Plate Adapter MLS203P2: Petri Dish / Slide Holder for Inverted Microscopes C4SH01: Multi Slide Holder for Inverted Microscopes MLS203P3: Blank Adapter Plate MLS203P5: 1/4"-20 Tapped Breadboard Plate MLS203P4: M6-Tapped Breadboard Plate MLS203P10: Multiple Slide Holder for Upright and Inverted Microscopes MLS203P11: Recessed Slide Holder for Upright Microscopes MJC001: 2-Axis Joystick Controller
Nikon 50i, 80i, 90i and Ci-L	MLS203-1	MLSA06
Nikon TE2000 and Eclipse Ti	MLS203-1	MLSA03
Nikon Eclipse FN1	MLS203-1	MLSA07
Olympus BX41, BX43, BX51, BX53 and BX61	MLS203-1	MLSA08
Olympus IX51, IX71, IX73, IX81, and IX83	MLS203-1	MLSA02
Olympus IX70	MLS203-1	MLSA09
Zeiss Axio Observer and Axiovert 40	MLS203-2	None Needed
Optical Breadboard / Custom Configuration	MLS203-1	MLSA01

If your microscope is not listed, please contact Technical Support to inquire about custom mounting adapters. We can support microscopes from Olympus, Nikon, Zeiss, and Leica.

MLS203 Stage
Travel Range	110 mm x 75 mm (4.3" x 2.95")
Speed (Max)	250 mm/s
Acceleration (Max)	2000 mm/s²
Bidirectional Repeatability	0.25 µm
Unidirectional Repeatability	0.25 µm
Backlash^a	N/A
Load Capacity (Max)	1 kg (2.2 lb)
Incremental Movement (Min)	0.1 µm
Absolute On-Axis Accuracy	<3 µm
Percentage Accuracy (Max)	X-Axis: 0.0027% Y-Axis: 0.004%
Flatness in X Axis	±3 µm Over Full Travel , ±1 µm Over 10 mm
Flatness in Y Axis	±2 µm Over Full Travel , ±1 µm Over 10 mm
Home Location Accuracy	0.25 µm
Settling Time within 1 µm (600 g Load)	0.1 s
Settling Time within 0.1 µm (600 g Load)	0.6 s
Weight (Including Cables)	3.2 kg (7.0 lbs)
Limit Switches	X and Y as Standard
Bearing Type	Precision Linear Bearing
Motor Type	Brushless DC Linear Motor
Dimensions (Mid Travel, Excluding Guards)	260.0 mm x 230.0 mm x 31.3 mm (10.24" x 9.06" x 1.23")
Recommended Controller	BBD202

The stage does not suffer from backlash because there is no leadscrew.

BBD202 Controller
Drive Connector	8-Pin DIN, Round, Female
Feedback Connector	15-Pin D-Type
Continuous Drive Output	5 A
PWM Frequency	40 kHz
Operating Modes	Position and Velocity
Control Algorithm	16-Bit Digital PID Servo Loop with Velocity and Acceleration Feedforward
Velocity Profile	Trapezoidal/S-Curve
Position Count	32 Bit
Position Feedback	Incremental Encoder
Encoder Bandwidth	2.5 MHz 10 M Counts/s
Encoder Supply	5 V
AUX Control Connector	15-Pin D-Type
Input Power Requirements	250 VA Volt: 100 to 240 VAC Freq: 47 to 63 Hz Fuse: 3.15 A
Dimensions	240 mm x 337.9 mm x 124.8 mm (9.5" x 13.3" x 4.9")
Weight	6.1 kg (13.42 lb)

MLS203 XY Scanning Stage Pin Out Descriptions

Motor Drive

Male

Motor Drive

Pin	Description	Pin	Description
1	Motor Phase V	5	Stage ID
2	GND	6	GND
3	Thermistor (Not Used)	7	Motor Phase W
4	Motor Phase U	8	Enable

Encoder Feedback

D-Type Male

Encoder Feedback

Pin	Description	Pin	Description
1	Not Connected	9	GND
2	GND	10	Limit Switch +
3	Not Connected	11	Limit Switch -
4	Enc Index -	12	Enc Index +
5	QB -	13	QB +
6	QA -	14	QA +
7	5 V	15	Not Connected
8	5 V	15	Not Connected

MLS203 Coltroller (BBD202) Pin Out Descriptions

Motor Drive

Female

BBD MOTOR DRIVE

Pin	Description	Pin	Description
1	Motor Phase V	5	Stage ID
2	GND	6	GND
3	Temp Sensor (Not Used)	7	Motor Phase W
4	Motor Phase U	8	Enable

Feedback

D-Type Female

BBD FEEDBACK

Pin	Description	Pin	Description
1	Not Connected	9	GND
2	GND	10	Limit Switch +
3	Not Connected	11	Limit Switch -
4	Index -	12	Index +
5	QB -	13	QB +
6	QA -	14	QA +
7^a	5 V	15	Not Connected
8^a	5 V	15	Not Connected

Pins 7 and 8 are Short Circuit Internally

User I/O

D-Type Male

15 Oin DIN Male

Pin	Description	Pin	Description
1	5 V	9	QA +
2	Trigger IN	10	QA -
3	Trigger OUT	11	QB+
4	Ground	12	QB -
5	Ground	13	Index/Ref +
6	For Future Use	14	Index/Ref -
7	For Future Use	15	Ground
8	For Future Use	15	Ground

Aux I/O

D-Type Female

BBD FEEDBACK

Pin	Description	Pin	Description
1	Digital O/P 1	9	Digital Ground
2	Digital O/P 2	10	Digital Ground
3	Digital O/P 3	11	For Future Use
4	Digital O/P 4	12	For Future Use
5	Digital Ground	13	Digital I/P 4
6	Digital I/P 1	14	5 V Supply O/P
7	Digital I/P 2	15	5 V Supply O/P
8	Digital I/P 3	15	5 V Supply O/P

Handset

Mini DIN Female

Handset Connector

Pin	Description	Pin	Description
1	RX (controller intput)/RS232	4	Supply Voltage for Handset 5V
2	Ground	5	TX (controller output)/RS232
3	Ground	6	Ground

Interconnect

D-Type Male

9Pin DIN Male

Pin	Description	Pin	Description
1	Not Connected	6	Not Connected
2	RX (controller input)	7	Not Connected
3	TX (controller output)	8	Not Connected
4	Not Connected	9	Not Connected
5	Ground	9	Not Connected

Using the MLS203 XY Stage with the Meta Imaging Series

The BBD202 controller for our MLS203 XY stage is compatible with the Meta Imaging Series software from Molecular Devices. The Meta Series includes MetaMorph NX, MetaMorph, MetaFluor, and MetaVue. The following images (taken from Meta Imaging Series version 7.8) show how to configure the software to control the XY stage.

Click to Enlarge
Step 1: From one of the Meta Imaging Series programs, open the Meta Imaging Series Administrator. To configure the stage, click "Configure Hardware."

Click to Enlarge
Step 2: To set up the stage, click "Install System Devices."

Click to Enlarge
Step 3: Browse through the list on the left and find and highlight Thorlabs; then click "Install." From the Installed Devices list on the right, select Thorlabs and then click "Settings".

Click to Enlarge
Step 4: Ensure that "Thorlabs X" and "Thorlabs Y" are listed in the included components, then click "Show Version Information."

Click to Enlarge
Step 5: Confirm that the details are correct as shown above, and then click OK (if multiple windows appear, click OK on each one). You will return to the "Configure Hardware" window shown in step 2. Now Click "Configure Devices."

Click to Enlarge
Step 6: Select Thorlabs from the list of available devices and click "Add>>."

Click to Enlarge
Step 7: Check that both "Thorlabs X" and "Thorlabs Y" are listed in the "Claimed Devices" column, and then click "OK" until all the program windows are closed.

Click to Enlarge
Step 8: Open the Meta Imaging Series software program installed on your computer from All Programs under the Start Menu. In the "Devices" menu select "Stage," and different types of movements are listed. The screenshots below show, from left to right, absolute position movement settings, scanning movement settings, and relative position movement settings.

Click to Enlarge
Absolute Position Movement Settings

Click to Enlarge
Scanning Movement Settings

Click to Enlarge
Relative Position Movement Settings

Thorlabs offers two platforms to drive our wide range of motion controllers: our Kinesis^® software package or the legacy APT™ (Advanced Positioning Technology) software package. Either package can be used to control devices in the Kinesis family, which covers a wide range of motion controllers ranging from small, low-powered, single-channel drivers (such as the K-Cubes™ and T-Cubes™) to high-power, multi-channel, modular 19" rack nanopositioning systems (the APT Rack System).

The Kinesis Software features .NET controls which can be used by 3rd party developers working in the latest C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any .NET compatible languages to create custom applications. Low-level DLL libraries are included for applications not expected to use the .NET framework. A Central Sequence Manager supports integration and synchronization of all Thorlabs motion control hardware.

Kinesis GUI Screen

APT GUI Screen

Our legacy APT System Software platform offers ActiveX-based controls which can be used by 3rd party developers working on C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any Active-X compatible languages to create custom applications and includes a simulator mode to assist in developing custom applications without requiring hardware.

By providing these common software platforms, Thorlabs has ensured that users can easily mix and match any of the Kinesis and APT controllers in a single application, while only having to learn a single set of software tools. In this way, it is perfectly feasible to combine any of the controllers from single-axis to multi-axis systems and control all from a single, PC-based unified software interface.

The software packages allow two methods of usage: graphical user interface (GUI) utilities for direct interaction with and control of the controllers 'out of the box', and a set of programming interfaces that allow custom-integrated positioning and alignment solutions to be easily programmed in the development language of choice.

A range of video tutorials is available to help explain our APT system software. These tutorials provide an overview of the software and the APT Config utility. Additionally, a tutorial video is available to explain how to select simulator mode within the software, which allows the user to experiment with the software without a controller connected. Please select the APT Tutorials tab above to view these videos.

Software

Kinesis Version 1.14.25

The Kinesis Software Package, which includes a GUI for control of Thorlabs' Kinesis and APT™ system controllers.

Also Available:

Communications Protocol

Software

APT Version 3.21.4

The APT Software Package, which includes a GUI for control of Thorlabs' APT™ and Kinesis system controllers.

Also Available:

Communications Protocol

The APT video tutorials available here fall into two main groups - one group covers using the supplied APT utilities and the second group covers programming the APT System using a selection of different programming environments.

Disclaimer: The videos below were originally produced in Adobe Flash. Following the discontinuation of Flash after 2020, these tutorials were re-recorded for future use. The Flash Player controls still appear in the bottom of each video, but they are not functional.

Every APT controller is supplied with the utilities APTUser and APTConfig. APTUser provides a quick and easy way of interacting with the APT control hardware using intuitive graphical control panels. APTConfig is an 'off-line' utility that allows various system wide settings to be made such as pre-selecting mechanical stage types and associating them with specific motion controllers.

APT User Utility

The first video below gives an overview of using the APTUser Utility. The OptoDriver single channel controller products can be operated via their front panel controls in the absence of a control PC. The stored settings relating to the operation of these front panel controls can be changed using the APTUser utility. The second video illustrates this process.

APT User - Overview

APT User - OptoDriver Settings

APT Config Utility

There are various APT system-wide settings that can be made using the APT Config utility, including setting up a simulated hardware configuration and associating mechanical stages with specific motor drive channels. The first video presents a brief overview of the APT Config application. More details on creating a simulated hardware configuration and making stage associations are present in the next two videos.

APT Config - Overview

APT Config - Simulator Setup

APT Config - Stage Association

APT Programming

The APT Software System is implemented as a collection of ActiveX Controls. ActiveX Controls are language-independant software modules that provide both a graphical user interface and a programming interface. There is an ActiveX Control type for each type of hardware unit, e.g. a Motor ActiveX Control covers operation with any type of APT motor controller (DC or stepper). Many Windows software development environments and languages directly support ActiveX Controls, and, once such a Control is embedded into a custom application, all of the functionality it contains is immediately available to the application for automated operation. The videos below illustrate the basics of using the APT ActiveX Controls with LabVIEW, Visual Basic, and Visual C++. Note that many other languages support ActiveX including LabWindows CVI, C++ Builder, VB.NET, C#.NET, Office VBA, Matlab, HPVEE etc. Although these environments are not covered specifically by the tutorial videos, many of the ideas shown will still be relevant to using these other languages.

Visual Basic

Part 1 illustrates how to get an APT ActiveX Control running within Visual Basic, and Part 2 goes on to show how to program a custom positioning sequence.

APT Programming Using Visual Basic - Part 1

APT Programming Using Visual Basic - Part 2

LabVIEW

Full Active support is provided by LabVIEW and the series of tutorial videos below illustrate the basic building blocks in creating a custom APT motion control sequence. We start by showing how to call up the Thorlabs-supplied online help during software development. Part 2 illustrates how to create an APT ActiveX Control. ActiveX Controls provide both Methods (i.e. Functions) and Properties (i.e. Value Settings). Parts 3 and 4 show how to create and wire up both the methods and properties exposed by an ActiveX Control. Finally, in Part 5, we pull everything together and show a completed LabVIEW example program that demonstrates a custom move sequence.

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 1: Accessing Online Help

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 2: Creating an ActiveX Control

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 3: Create an ActiveX Method

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 4: Create an ActiveX Property

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Part 5: How to Start an ActiveX Control

The following tutorial videos illustrate alternative ways of creating Method and Property nodes:

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Create an ActiveX Method (Alternative)

APT Programming Using LabVIEW -
Create an ActiveX Property (Alternative)

Visual C++

Part 1 illustrates how to get an APT ActiveX Control running within Visual C++, and Part 2 goes on to show how to program a custom positioning sequence.

APT Programming with Visual C++ - Part 1

APT Programming with Visual C++ - Part 2

MATLAB

For assistance when using MATLAB and ActiveX controls with the Thorlabs APT positioners, click here.

To further assist programmers, a guide to programming the APT software in LabVIEW is also available here.

Posted Comments:

Jie Chen (posted 2021-02-24 14:47:05.423)

I want to write some codes to control the BBD203 controller. Is there any example code to give me an assistance? Thank you!

DJayasuriya (posted 2021-02-25 10:06:15.0)

Thank you for your inquiry. I Will get in touch with you directly to assist you.

DJayasuriya (posted 2021-02-25 10:06:15.0)

Thank you for your inquiry. I Will get in touch with you directly to assist you.

Dohyun Kim (posted 2021-02-22 16:09:02.06)

Dear Thorlab I am an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Myongji University, South Korea. I am highly interested in your high-speed XY stage. I would like to use this stage on my IX-70 microscope for fluorescence imaing. My question is: Can this stage move 0.5 mm distance +X and -X directions 5 times per second with this stage? In theory, it seems possible considering it would only take 0.5mm/(250 mm/s)= 2 ms but i guess one has to consider acceleration and deceleration. Regards,

YLohia (posted 2021-02-22 11:41:04.0)

Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. Yes, this is possible. Please see the acceleration (and deceleration) times as a function of load (> 500 mm/s²) listed on page 11 of the manual: https://www.thorlabs.com/_sd.cfm?fileName=20967-D02.pdf&partNumber=MLS203-1

Christian Maibohm (posted 2020-08-04 05:49:07.99)

Dear Thorlabs, Is it possible to run the MLS203-1 stage with micro-manger? I can see in a question below that this stage is not recommended to operate in an incubator environment. Does this also apply to a stage-top incubator system such as the OKO-lab uno or similar systems? Thank you in advance, Christian Maibohm

DJayasuriya (posted 2020-08-07 06:41:42.0)

Thank you for your inquiry. Yes it is possible to use mirco-manager with the MLS stage. I will get in touch with you to send a general comments guide. We have worked with Tokai-Hit for stage-top incubators and they proved successful.

tobias.meyer (posted 2018-01-08 10:37:18.78)

Hi, I have purchased the stage in order to use it with a thorlabs resonant LSM (which is not sold any more, the res. LSM with 4 channels detection). How do I integrate the stage with ThorimageLS? It does not automatically detect the stage. I have installed it and it runs, but I would prefer to move it through Thorimage. Can you help me with that? Thank you very much, Tobias

bwood (posted 2018-02-05 04:12:17.0)

Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your question. I will be in contact with you directly to discuss using the MLS203-1 with ThorimageLS.

patrick.lu (posted 2015-02-27 15:59:48.293)

Sorry to clutter the thread, but we would also like the documentation for the low level serial communication. While we expect to use the ActiveX approach, I would like to explore both options.

msoulby (posted 2015-03-02 04:00:35.0)

Response from Mike at Thorlabs: The low level communications protocols can be freely downloaded from the following link http://www.thorlabs.de/software/apt/APT_Communications_Protocol_Rev_14.pdf however we will also send this document to you directly.

patrick.lu (posted 2014-12-12 20:15:43.15)

Is it possible to add a hardware limit switch to the stage? For instance, in our space-constrained setup, we will have collisions if the stage is allowed to move through its full 110mm range along the x-axis. We would rather limit it to 75mm of travel. Since we are planning to control the stage using LabVIEW, this will be possible in software, but I think for peace of mind it would be nice to constrain it through hardware as well.

msoulby (posted 2014-12-15 06:55:10.0)

Response from Mike at Thorlabs: The stage does have hardware limit switches at the extremes of travel to prevent the stage from driving into the edge as you would expect, however it is not possible to add a hardware limit switch in the middle of the travel. Therefore using a software platform such as Labview to implement a travel restriction is currently the only option that is currently feasible with the MLS203-1

rauer (posted 2014-09-19 15:39:13.903)

Is there a different way to programmtically (in C#) control this stage than using an activex control?

msoulby (posted 2014-09-22 03:26:21.0)

Reponses from Mike at Thorlabs: If you do not wish to use ActiveX one other option would be to make use of direct serial communication through a virtual COM port on the USB. We have documented all of the low level communications protocols that can be used with our controllers and have emailed you directly with this document and some brief instructions on using the protocols.

jaz22 (posted 2014-07-25 15:17:16.22)

Can this stage also be mounted vertically if I would like to use it for an application other than microscopy?

msoulby (posted 2014-07-29 04:46:23.0)

Response from Mike at Thorlabs: The brushless DC motors in the MLS203 cannot be used in a vertical configuration. The stage would be able to operate vertically however as soon as the power is removed there is no braking on the moving world. The stage will fall rapidly to the bottom. This shock of the moving world and load hitting the end of the stage can potentially cause damage to the stage. You would need to use a lead screw driven stage for vertical configurations, for example the MTS50 or LNR50S.

yatang32 (posted 2014-06-23 14:24:33.647)

If I want to use Labview to program MLS203-1, can I do it with the controller?

bhallewell (posted 2014-06-23 06:14:39.0)

Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Yes, you can! Our recommended BBD202 series controller can be controlled through LabVIEW. By installing our readily available APT Motion Control Software from the following link you can connect with ActiveX controls through LabVIEW to control the MLS203 stage. Please find support documentation available here also for guidance. http://www.thorlabs.de/software_pages/ViewSoftwarePage.cfm?Code=APT We have recently updated our software to be comptaible with both 64-bit & 32-bit versions of LabVIEW.

user (posted 2013-10-24 03:34:27.663)

Dear Mr/Ms I'm Jaeduck Jang from Korea. According to the specs of MLS203-1, it can be adopted to IX71,81 Olympus Microscopes. As I know recent Olympus inverted microscopes are IX73 and 83. Should I use MSL203-1 with MLSA02 on IX83 platform?

msoulby (posted 2013-11-21 11:31:33.0)

Response from Mike at Thorlabs: Yes, the MLSA02 and MLS201-1 can be used with the Olympus IX83

cj (posted 2013-02-13 12:47:11.367)

Can I mount a heating insert onto this device? The link below is the insert I plan on using. http://www.pecon.biz/?page_id=765 Also is this device capable of with standing the hot/humid environment in an incubation chamber?

jlow (posted 2013-02-18 11:56:00.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: We do not have specific operating temperature specs for this but the recommended temperature is <40°C. This device is not meant to be operated in a high humidity environment so I would NOT recommend using this in an incubation chamber.

user (posted 2013-02-13 20:40:54.45)

Is MLS203-1 High speed motorized scanning stage controllable with Cellsens software from Olympus?

jlow (posted 2013-02-18 11:53:00.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: Unfortunately the MLS203-1 is not compatible with Cellsens software from Olympus. It can be used in micromanager which is another popular microscopy suite. If you are interested in this, please let us know and we can send you details on the setup procedure.

bdada (posted 2012-04-23 17:47:00.0)

Response from Buki at Thorlabs to david: Thank you for your feedback. We only recommend that the MLS and other brushless stages are used with Thorlabs controllers because we cannot guarantee safe use with 3rd party controllers. Please consider using our BBD102 controller shown in the page linked below: http://www.thorlabs.de/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup_id=5360 We have contacted you to discuss this further.

david.naylor (posted 2012-04-19 06:20:42.0)

Hi, I would like to use existing aerotech soloist controllers that we have http://www.aerotech.com/product-catalog/drives-and-drive-racks/soloist-mp.aspx to drive each axis of the MLS203-1. Could you tell me if you foresee any problems with this configuration. Thanks David

tcohen (posted 2012-03-08 12:30:00.0)

Response from Tim at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. Yes, the stage can be used in µManager. You should be able to select the stage from the list of available devices in µManager when setting up the hardware configuration.

user (posted 2012-03-08 08:06:39.0)

Compatible with µManager ?

High-Speed Motorized XY Scanning Stages

Zoom

Key Specifications^a
Travel Range	110 mm x 75 mm (4.3" x 2.95")
Velocity (Max)	250 mm/s
Acceleration (Max)	2000 mm/s²
Bidirectional Repeatability	0.25 µm
Unidirectional Repeatability	0.25 µm
Horizontal Load Capacity (Max)	1.0 kg (2.2 lb)
Min. Achievable Incremental Movement	0.1 µm
Home Location Accuracy	0.25 µm
Absolute On-Axis Accuracy	<3 µm

Please see the Specs tab for complete specifications.

These XY scanning stages are drop-in replacements for the manual stages found on select microscopes, and provide motorized XY positioning of microscopy samples. The MLS203-1 is compatible with Thorlabs' Cerna^® microscopes, as well as inverted and upright microscopes from Nikon and Olympus (see the table in the Overview tab above). Adapter brackets can be purchased separately that enable the stage to be fitted to a particular microscope. Tabletop mounting brackets (Item # MLSA01) are also available that enable the stage to be bolted to an optical table or breadboard as part of a custom built microscope setup or for use in typical photonics applications (see below for more details).

The MLS203-2 is directly compatible with Zeiss Axio Observer and Axiovert 40 microscopes. Mounting brackets are not required.

Compatible Controller for MLS203 Stages

Zoom

The BBD202 two-channel controller features Thorlabs' standard APT™ control and programming interface, enabling easy integration into automated microscopy applications. It is ideal for applications demanding operation at high speeds (hundreds of mm/s) and high encoder resolution (<100 nm). For greater flexibility, communication with a PC is supported using either a USB or RS232 serial interface. The controller is supplied with a software development kit (SDK) in order to support automated PC control of the stage. This is useful to system integrators and other automation specialists who need to combine operation of the stage with other microscopy automation accessories. The fully documented SDK supports all major development languages running on Windows, such as LabVIEW, C++, and Matlab, and comes in the form of ActiveX libraries or a conventional dynamic link library (DLL).

USB 1.1 connectivity provides easy, plug-and-play PC operation. Multiple units can be connected to a single PC via standard USB hub technology; for example, both the BBD202 controller for the MLS203 XY stage and the controller with our MZS500-E Z-axis piezo stage kit can be operated simultaneously with a single PC. Combining this feature with the user-friendly APT™ software allows the user to program and carry out complex move sequences quickly. For more details on the BBD202 controller, please see the Specs tab above or the full presentation for our brushless DC controllers.

Mounting Brackets for MLS203 Series Stages

Click to Enlarge
MLS203-1 Stage with MLS203P2 Slide Holder on CSA1000 Fixed Arm for Attachment to a Cerna Microscope Body
(All Sold Separately)

We offer a choice of brackets to facilitate mounting the MLS203-1 stage to a range of upright and inverted microscopes from Thorlabs, Nikon, and Olympus. Please see the table below for specific compatibility. We also offer brackets that allow the MLS203-1 stage to be attached to imperial or metric breadboards for home-built microscopes or general photonics applications.

Each bracket (with the exception of the CSA1000) comes with instructions describing how to attach the stage to the microscope. Please note that the MLS203-2 stage can be bolted directly to a Zeiss Axio Observer or Axiovert without the need for brackets.

Click Image for Details
Bracket Item #	CSA1000	MLSA02	MLSA09	MLSA08	MLSA03	MLSA06	MLSA07	MLSA01
Microscope Brand	Thorlabs	Olympus			Nikon			Optical Breadboard, Custom Configuration
Microscope Model	Cerna^®	IX51, IX71, IX73, IX81, IX83	IX70	BX41, BX43, BX51, BX53, BX61	TE2000, Eclipse Ti	50i, 80i, 90i, Ci-L	Eclipse FN1	N/A
Microscope Type	Upright	Inverted	Inverted	Upright	Inverted	Upright	Upright	N/A

Click to Enlarge
MLS203-1 Stage Attached to a Breadboard with our MLSA01 Bracket Set

We support microscopes from Olympus, Nikon, Zeiss and Leica. Please contact Technical Support to inquire about bracket availability if your microscope model is not listed above.

Slide Holders for MLS203 Stages

MLS203P2
Petri Dish/Slide Holder for Inverted Microscopes
MLS203_P2_L
Click to Enlarge

Compatible with Petri Dishes Measuring 30 mm to 60 mm (1.18" to 2.36") in Diameter
Compatible with Glass Slides Measuring 25 mm to 26.5 mm (0.98" to 1.04") in Width

Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P2 Petri Dish/Slide Holder Fitted

MLS203 Stage Mounted in an Inverted Microscope

Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P2 Mounted on Inverted Microscope

C4SH01
Multi Slide Holder for Inverted Microscopes
MLS203_P8_L
Click to Enlarge

Plastic Holder Compatible with 25 mm x 75 mm,
1.1 ± 0.2 mm Thick Microscope Slides
Mount up to Four Slides for Automated Tissue and Tissue Microarray Analysis
Same Footprint as Multiwell Plates (127.6 mm
× 85.5 mm)
Requires MLS203P1 Adapter Plate (Sold Below)

Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with C4SH01 Slide Holder Tray (Requires the MLS203P1 Plate Adapter, Sold Below)

Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with C4SH01 in an MLS203P1 Plate Adapter Mounted on Inverted Microscope

MLS203P10
Multi-Slide Holder for Upright or Inverted Microscopes

Click to Enlarge

Compatible with Microscope Slides up to 26 mm x 76 mm (1.024" x 3.020")
Holds up to Four Slides

Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P10 Multi Slide Holder, Holding Four Slides

Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P10 Multi-Slide Holder Mounted on Inverted Microscope

MLS203P11
Recessed Slide Holder for Upright Microscopes
MLS203_P11_L
Click to Enlarge

Compatible with Microscope Slides up to 26 mm x 76 mm and 18 mm x 18 mm Calibration Targets
Allows the Microscope Condenser to be Positioned Within 1.5 mm (0.06") of the Slide Surface
Can be Used with 25 mm x 75 mm and 1” x 3” Slides

Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P11 Slide Holder, Holding a Slide and 18 mm Square Test Target

Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P11 Recessed Slide Holder Mounted on Upright Microscope

General Accessory Plates for MLS203 Stages

These accessory plates can also be mounted on rigid stands for flexible positioning around the light path.

MLS203P1 Multiwell Plate Adapter
MLS203_P1_L
Click to Enlarge

Compatible with C4SH01 and Standard Well Plates
Clip Holder to Secure Samples in Place

MLS203P3 Blank Adapter Plate
MLS203_P3_L
Click to Enlarge

Ideal for Custom or Non-Standard Applications
Easily Drilled and Tapped

MLS203P4 and MLS203P5 Breadboard
MLS203_P4_L
Click to Enlarge

35 Imperial or Metric Taps
MLS203P4: M6 Taps on 25 mm Centers
MLS203P5: 1/4"-20 Taps on 1" Centers

Application Example 1

MLS203_P1_R_sm
Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P1 Multiwell Plate Adapter Fitted

Application Example 2

MLS203_P3_R_sm
Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P3 Blank Adapter Plate Fitted

Application Example 3

MLS203_P4_R_sm
Click to Enlarge
MLS203 Stage with MLS203P4 Breadboard Fitted

2-Axis Joystick Console

Zoom

Speed Adjustment for Fast or High Precision Moves
Speed Dial for Sensitivity Adjustment
Ergonomic Design
High-Quality Machined Anodized Aluminum Casing
High-Reliability Hall Effect Joystick

The MJC001 Joystick Console has been designed for microscope users and provides intuitive, tactile, manual positioning of a stage. The console features a two-axis joystick for XY control. In most applications, the default parameter settings saved within the controller allow the joystick to be used out-of-the-box with no need for further setup. This operation mode eliminates the need for connection to a host PC and allows for true remote operation.

The MJC001 is compatible with our Benchtop Brushless Controllers, Rack-Mounted Brushless Controller, and Stepper Motor Controllers. The joystick is shipped complete with cables for use with these controllers. If you intend to use the joystick with a legacy BBD10x series unit, please contact Tech Support for a compatible cable.

View All »Matching Part Numbers

High-Speed Motorized XY Scanning Stages

Features

Complete Microscope Stage Assemblies

MLS203 XY Scanning Stage Pin Out Descriptions

Motor Drive

Male

Encoder Feedback

D-Type Male

MLS203 Coltroller (BBD202) Pin Out Descriptions

Motor Drive

Female

Feedback

D-Type Female

User I/O

D-Type Male

Aux I/O

D-Type Female

Handset

Mini DIN Female

Interconnect

D-Type Male

Using the MLS203 XY Stage with the Meta Imaging Series

Software

Software

APT User Utility

APT Config Utility

APT Programming

Visual Basic

LabVIEW

Visual C++

MATLAB

High-Speed Motorized XY Scanning Stages

Compatible Controller for MLS203 Stages

Mounting Brackets for MLS203 Series Stages

Slide Holders for MLS203 Stages

General Accessory Plates for MLS203 Stages

2-Axis Joystick Console