The NPX Series is a family of compact, long travel piezo-based linear stages providing nanometer resolution motion in one, two or three axis. These versatile stages are ideally suited for nanopositioning of small components such as mirrors, fibers, laser diodes, micro-optics, sensors, or cellular samples. Applications include optical delay lines, path length changes of interferometers, laser lithography, scanning microscopy, and patch-clamping, among others.
NPX stages feature highly reliable, multi-layer, low-voltage piezoelectric transducer (PZT) stacks for high-duty cycle operations. A sophisticated, FEA-optimized, parallelogram solid state flexure guide system ensures perfect parallel motion and up to 400 µm travel range. Due to the frictionless guide principle, NPX stages are maintenance-free and are not subject to wear. Furthermore, the output motion sensitivity is not affected by mechanical friction.
One of the advantages of the NPX piezo-based linear stages over traditional screw driven stages is the rapid response and fast settling performance. This allows them to be used in dynamic processes such as high-frequency error compensation, tracking, fast stepping or continuous scanning.
NPX linear stages are available as X, XY, and XYZ motion systems. The multi-axis XY and XYZ devices utilize an advanced parallel motion principle, meaning all actuators act directly on the moving platform. Smaller form ...

The NPX Series is a family of compact, long travel piezo-based linear stages providing nanometer resolution motion in one, two or three axis. These versatile stages are ideally suited for nanopositioning of small components such as mirrors, fibers, laser diodes, micro-optics, sensors, or cellular samples. Applications include optical delay lines, path length changes of interferometers, laser lithography, scanning microscopy, and patch-clamping, among others.
NPX stages feature highly reliable, multi-layer, low-voltage piezoelectric transducer (PZT) stacks for high-duty cycle operations. A sophisticated, FEA-optimized, parallelogram solid state flexure guide system ensures perfect parallel motion and up to 400 µm travel range. Due to the frictionless guide principle, NPX stages are maintenance-free and are not subject to wear. Furthermore, the output motion sensitivity is not affected by mechanical friction.
One of the advantages of the NPX piezo-based linear stages over traditional screw driven stages is the rapid response and fast settling performance. This allows them to be used in dynamic processes such as high-frequency error compensation, tracking, fast stepping or continuous scanning.
NPX linear stages are available as X, XY, and XYZ motion systems. The multi-axis XY and XYZ devices utilize an advanced parallel motion principle, meaning all actuators act directly on the moving platform. Smaller form factor and lower inertia for faster motion can be achieved as opposed to other PZT systems with serial kinematics such as stacks of individual stages. In addition, the NPXY100 and NPXY200 models feature a large central aperture which makes them particularly suitable for microscopy applications.
All NPX linear stages are available as open-loop (no position feedback) or closed-loop devices with integrated position feedback. In open-loop, the resolution is only limited by the noise of the control electronics, but repeatability and stability are compromised due to the hysteresis and creep of the piezoelectric ceramic material. The closed-loop systems (model numbers ending in SG) feature high resolution strain-gauge position sensors for highly accurate and repeatable motion. The position feedback compensates also for actuator creep. For highest position stability and most temperature insensitive performance, the sensors are built in a full Wheatstone bridge design. The closed-loop devices can be operated in either open or closed-loop control.
Fastening is accomplished by a number of threads and alignment pin holes at the top and bottom plates. For mounting to optical tables or other components with the same hole grid, use adapter plate NPX-BP. Like with all piezoelectric flexure devices, excessive moment loads and side forces acting between the top plate and the housing should be avoided during fastening. These external forces could damage the stage.