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MLS203 Series XY Scanning Stage
Chapter 4 Operation
4.1 General
The stages are connected to the controller via 2 flying leads terminated in D-type
connectors (FEEDBACK) and 2 leads terminated in round 8-Pin DIN Connectors
(MOTOR DRIVE).
For a complete tutorial on using the stage, see the manual supplied with the controller.
Basic steps in controlling the stage are as follows:
1) Make electrical connections as detailed in Section 3.3.
2) Move the moving platform a few times over its full range of travel to overcome any
storage resistance, then position the moving platform to be around its central position.
3) Power up the controller and wait for 10 secs until the Channel Enable LEDs start
flashing.
4) If a joystick control is being used, press and hold the ‘High/Low’ button for 2
seconds, then release to home the stage. When homing is complete, the green
LED stops flashing.
5) If no joystick is being used, click the Home button on the GUI panel.
Caution
The MLS203 stages is designed to be driven by the Thorlabs BBD20x or
RBD201 Brushless DC Motor Controllers.
Warning
The motor controller must be switched OFF before the stages are plugged in or
unplugged. Failure to switch the controller off may result in damage to either the
controller, the stage, or both.
Warning
3-phase brushless DC motors are commutated electronically, i.e. the controller
drives the coils with a precisely controlled waveform, that depends on the
position of the rotor (or, with linear motors, the position of the coil housing). On
power up, the position of the coil housing is not known. The controller
establishes this by energising the coils and measuring the resulting movement.
This is why on power up, the stage (motor) may make a slight buzzing noise
and move about randomly for a few seconds. Phase initialization can only take
place if the motor can move unobstructed during this time. Before powering up
the BBD controller at item (2), ensure that the stage movement is unobstructed.
