| Mad City Labs, based in Madison Wisconsin, is the leading U.S. manufacturer of nanopositioning stages. Applications of Nanopositioning Stages With applications that range from biological confocal imaging to lithography and single molecule spectroscopy, nanopositioning stages are fundamental tools used in nanotechnology research. What Does a Nanopositioning Stage Do? A typical nanopositioning stage provides highly controlled motion in one or more axes with a position resolution of less than 1 nanometer. Internal sensors provide continuous feedback to the controller electronics and give the user repeatable and stable position control. High speed is another important factor. With resonant frequencies often in excess of 1 kHz, piezoactuator driven nanopositioners routinely excel in applications where speed is just as important as precision. Used as a high resolution partner to motorized stages, a nanopositioning microscopy stage can make high speed XY scanning of test arrays or fast Z axis sample positioning a practical reality. Large center apertures and low physical profiles provide room for sample mounting and microscope illumination and optics. For maximum position control, nanoalignment stages provide controlled motion in 5 axes – X, Y, Z, plus tip and tilt. Uses range from lithographic mask alignment and nano materials testing to MEMS research and fabrication. Different Types of Nanopositioners Non magnetic nanopositioners, constructed of titanium, can be operated inside SEM’s for direct observation of test samples. Stages constructed of invar are designed for use in applications where thermal drift is a factor. Ultra high vacuum rated stages can also be made for use in chambers having pressures down to 10-10 Torr. Rotational Nanopositioners Unique to Mad City Labs, single axis and double axis rotational nanopositioners can be used in optical applications to provide high resolution laser scanning and fabrication of optical gratings. Servicing Worldwide Demand Mad City Labs has provided nanopositioning stages to many prominent university, corporate, and national laboratories in the U.S. and has sales representation in many countries throughout the world. Delivery of standard and custom systems is typically accomplished in 30 to 45 days. |