Physik Instrumente has introduced the P-736 z-axis piezo scanner for inverted microscopes. The scanner positions well plates and sample holders for object slides and petri dishes on the optical axis with nanometre precision, with a travel range of 200µm. It has an has an aperture of 160 × 110mm, and a height of 20mm, allowing it to be integrated into any standard inverted microscope.
The drive technology in the scanner is based on Picma piezo actuators with all-ceramic insulation. For high-resolution position control, the version of the P-736 is available with either piezo-resistive sensors, or capacitive sensors that provide high stability.
The P-736 is delivered as a complete system with a digital controller. The controller has USB, RS-232 and analogue interfaces and can be integrated into different control systems. It is additionally compatible with µManager, MetaMorph and Andor iQ.