Microscope stages, the platforms where specimens are mounted for viewing, can be operated manually or can be motorized. Motorized stages are available for both upright and inverted microscopes, and provide precise, automated control of samples, a critical parameter in high-performance image analysis techniques including DIC, fluorescence, and confocal microscopy; AFM; and TEM. Piezo stages provide nanometer-scale positioning.
What to consider when choosing a microscope stage?
The main goal when choosing a motorized stage is finding the sweet spot between resolution, repeatability, and speed for your particular application. Although it varies widely depending on the model, travel distances can range well beyond 380 × 380 mm. Drive mechanism options include stepper and servo motors, which offer varying degrees of automation, smoothness of motion, stability, and resolution. Closed-loop (vs open-loop) systems use an encoder to deal with backlash. Temperature control, important in life science experiments, is another useful addition.
Compare and request a quote for microscope stages from various manufacturers: