Positioning Units deliver automation to laser experiments.

Press Release Summary:




Minature NewStep(TM) NSA12 Actuator enables motorized control of translation stages and mechanically adjustable mounts. Measuring 60 x 30 mm, unit provides up to 11 mm travel with sub-micron incremental motion. NewStep(TM) NSC100 Controller offers both manual and computer control via RS232. Multi-functional manual knob controls motor speed, and initiates home searches and computer control. Products are suited for laser cavity optimization and adjustment of beam delivery optics.



Original Press Release:



Newport Introduces New Family of Miniature Precision Motion Products



Irvine, California - February 23, 2004 - Newport Corporation has introduced the NewStep(TM) Series of positioning products to provide low-cost automation solutions to many laser and electro-optic experiments and processes. The first products from this family includes the NewStep controller (NSC100) and NewStep Actuator (NSA12). The NewStep NSA12 actuator is designed as a direct replacement for manual micrometers, to enable precise motorized control of a wide range of translation stages and mechanically adjustable mounts. Measuring only 60 mm (length) by 30 mm (diameter), this tiny actuator provides up to 11 mm travel with sub-micron incremental motion.

The NewStep NSC100 is a very unique and ergonomic controller which can be used for both manual and computer control via RS232. The controller features a multi-functional manual knob which controls motor speed, initiates home searches and computer control. The controller can be used as both hand-held device or fastened to a typical optical table. Its high performance and low cost make it perfect for upgrading manual operations and adjustment of sensitive optical components.

The NewStep is intended for both OEM and laboratory applications that require automated and/or remote control of adjustable stages and mounts. Examples include laser cavity optimization, adjustment of beam delivery optics, measurement of laser beam coherence length, and general applications requiring fine adjustment of lenses, mirrors and other position-sensitive photonic components. The combination of precision motion and low-profile packaging are ideally suited for applications with limited accessibility, such as within tightly folded laser cavities.

The NewStep NSA12 actuator uses a high torque stepper motor to provide better than 0.3 micron incremental steps at 1 mm/sec with a maximum load of 18 Newtons. And, with its non-rotating tip, even large loads can be moved without any long-term degradation of the actuator-stage interface.

More information on Newport's full line of motion control and precision positioning products is available on the company's Web site at: http://newport.com/Products/New_Products/Motion_Control/

About Newport Corporation
Newport Corporation is a leading global supplier of advanced technology products and systems to the semiconductor, communications, electronics and research markets. The company provides components and integrated subsystems to manufacturers of semiconductor processing equipment, advanced automated assembly and test systems to manufacturers of communications and electronics devices, and a broad array of high-precision components and instruments to commercial, academic and government customers worldwide. Newport's innovative solutions leverage its expertise in precision robotics and automation, sub-micron positioning systems, vibration isolation and optical subsystems to enhance the capabilities and productivity of its customers' manufacturing, engineering and research applications. Newport is part of the Standard & Poor's Midcap 400 Index and the Russell 2000 Index. For more information, visit www.newport.com, or contact the company at 1791 Deere Avenue, Irvine, California, 92606, USA, Tel. (In U.S.) (800) 222-6440; Tel: (949) 863-3144; Fax: (949) 253-1800.

Company Contact:
David Rossi
Director of Marketing
Tel: 949.253.1944
Fax: 419.818.2656
E-mail: drossi@newport.com

James Fisher
Director of Product Marketing
Motion and Vibration Control Products
Tel: 949.253.1692
Fax: 949.253.1800
E-mail: jfisher@newport.com

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