Miniature Translation Stages


  • 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel
  • Single-Piece Construction
  • X, XY, XZ, or XYZ Configurations

Stage Dimensions

T12X

X Configuration

M3 x 0.25
Stainless
Steel Adjuster
(5/64" [2 mm] Hex)

T12XZ

XZ Configuration

Breadboard
Mounting Plate
(T12B) Sold Separately

T12B

T12XYZ

XYZ Configuration

Application Idea

T12A1 Adapter Used to Attach an LMR1 Lens Mount to a T12XY Stage

Related Items


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T12 Translation Stages
Travel Range (per Axis) 1/2" (12.7 mm)
Leadscrew Pitch 0.25 mm
Dynamic Horizontal Load (Max) 5 lbs (22 N)
Adjustment 250 µm per Revolution
Straightness 4 µm Over 1/2" Range
Parallelism 3 µm Over 1/2" Range
Static Moment Ratings
Roll 2.2 N•m
Pitch 1.4 N•m
Yaw 1.2 N•m
Ball Bearing-Mechanism
Manual Translation Stages
1/4" (6 mm) Travel
1/2" (13 mm) Travel
1/2" (13 mm) Travel, Miniature
1" (25 mm) Travel
2" (50 mm) Travel

Features

  • 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel
  • X, XY, XZ, and XYZ Versions
  • 2-56 (M2) Mounting Holes
  • #8 (M4) Counterbored and 8-32 (M4) Tapped Mounting Adapters Available
  • Unibody Construction for Small Form Factor and Long-Term Stability
  • Precision Recirculating Ball Bearing Design

Thorlabs' T12 Miniature Translation Stages consist of a hardened steel linear rail and recirculating ball bearing carriage that together provide precise linear motion and high load capacity. The compact form of this design has been achieved without sacrificing the precision of the translator. The combination of a miniature M3 x 0.25 stainless steel adjuster and phosphorous bronze mating nut provides 250 µm of displacement per revolution of the adjuster screw.

Unlike other linear stages, where multiple-axis stages are created using adapter plates, the T12 translation stages have a unibody construction. For example, the XY stage is constructed by machining the movable carriage of the first axis and the body of the second axis out of one part. This design leads to long-term stability and the most compact form with the perpendicularity of the various axes being fixed and accurate. This approach is used for all the configurations offered.

Four 2-56 (M2) mounting holes are provided on the top surface of these stages. Breadboard mounting is best accomplished using the T12B Breadboard Mounting Plate, sold below. For mounting components to the top of the stage, we offer the T12A1 and T12A2(/M) adapter plates, both of which are sold below. The T12A1 adapter has a counterbored mounting hole for 8-32 or M4 cap screws, while the T12A2(/M) adapter has a tapped mounting hole for 8-32 (M4) cap screws. 

T12XYZ SmartPack Packaging
Click to Enlarge

T12XYZ Packaging

Smart Pack

Item #% Weight
Reduction
CO2-Equivalent
Reductiona
T12XYZ 32.66% 0.81 kg
T12XYZ/M 32.66% 2.13 kg
T12X 47.75% 2.00 kg
T12X/M 47.75% 3.56 kg
T12XZ 55.95% 0.61 kg
T12XZ/M 55.95% 0.81 kg

Smart Pack

  • Reduce Weight of Packaging Materials
  • Increase Usage of Recyclable Packing Materials
  • Improve Packing Integrity
  • Decrease Shipping Costs

Thorlabs' Smart Pack Initiative is aimed at waste minimization while still maintaining adequate protection for our products. By eliminating any unnecessary packaging, implementing packaging design changes, and utilizing eco-friendly packaging materials for our customers when possible, this initiative seeks to improve the environmental impact of our product packaging. Products listed above are now shipped in re-engineered packaging that minimizes the weight and the use of non-recyclable materials.b As we move through our product line, we will indicate re-engineered packages with our Smart Pack logo.

  • Travel-based emissions reduction calculations are estimated based on the total weight reduction of packaging materials used for all of 2013’s product sales, traveling 1,000 miles on an airplane, to provide general understanding of the impact of packaging material reduction. Calculations were made using the EPA’s shipping emissions values for different modes of transport.
  • Some Smart Pack products may show a negative weight reduction percentage as the substitution of greener packaging materials, such as the Greenwrap, at times slightly increases the weight of the product packaging.

Posted Comments:
Igor Konieczniak  (posted 2020-03-02 10:26:58.37)
Hello, Would you please confirm that the T12XY stage has locking screws on its sides to fix its position once its translation is decided? I couldn't find this info nowhere in its pages. Cheers, Igor
llamb  (posted 2020-03-02 02:13:39.0)
Hello Igor, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The T12- series of miniature translation stages do not have locking screws. If you are considering a 1/2" travel stage with a locking screw, then perhaps our MT1 or DT12 stages might be better suited.
matthew.bolcar  (posted 2013-03-11 16:00:51.447)
I'm curious about how, or what, you might mount to the T12X stage. #2-56 is a very non-standard thread size for optical components. It would be very beneficial to have a #8-32 tapped hole on both sides of this stage, or perhaps an adapter plate for either #8-32 or even 1/4-20 tapped holes.
tcohen  (posted 2013-03-20 10:43:00.0)
Response from Tim at Thorlabs: Thank you for your request. We used to offer this adapter plate but due to low requests we stopped carrying it. We will look to reintroduce this product.
jlow  (posted 2012-11-13 11:53:00.0)
Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: The spring used in the T12X has a spring constant of 0.84 lb/in. The initial tension is about 0.04 lbs. At its minimum extension within the T12X, the spring displacement is about 0.176" from the free length. The spring force should be linear for the full translation range. Please note that we use 2 of this spring in the construction of the T12X.
apterk  (posted 2012-11-02 00:04:17.727)
Hello, I am trying to measure the force the T12X is exerting on a specimen by measuring the displacement of the T12x before and after the T12X is under a load. What is the spring force in the T12X. Is the spring linear? If the spring is linear, under what range? Does the spring have an initial displacement? Thanks.
jlow  (posted 2012-08-01 12:54:00.0)
A response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: The T12XY/M does not have a locking feature. I don’t have an actual value for how vibration sensitive this mount is. The preloaded spring force for these stages is around 0.4 lbs so it should hold up well against small vibrations.
jnesbitt  (posted 2012-07-27 13:32:28.0)
I was wondering if the T12XY/M stages had a locking feature? If not how sensitive to vibrations is it?
tcohen  (posted 2012-05-23 20:23:00.0)
Response from Tim at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. At this time, we do not have angle brackets compatible for the T12XZ. I would like to talk to you to discuss your application and have contacted you directly to see what we can provide that will fill your immediate needs.
sun  (posted 2012-05-23 12:35:28.0)
any feedback to my question on 5/18? Thanks!
sun  (posted 2012-05-18 20:46:24.0)
Do you have any right-angle bracket or similar parts that can work with this mini T12XZ stage? The 0.42" pitch and 2-56 hole is too small for any of your bracket including the Mini-Series MSAP90. Thank you!
jjurado  (posted 2011-05-09 13:52:00.0)
Response from Javier at Thorlabs to kchev: Thank you very much for your feedback. We have not implemented any changes to these stages recently. I will contact you directly to discuss the requirements of you application so that we can devise a solution for you.
kchev  (posted 2011-05-09 10:47:47.0)
Hello, have you found any solution for the big clearance? Im also disappointed about that for the T12XYZ stages I recently bought.
jjurado  (posted 2011-03-24 11:29:00.0)
Response from Javier at Thorlabs to albertaszukauskas: I will contact you directly to help you troubleshoot the assembly of this stage.
albertaszukauskas  (posted 2011-03-24 10:36:25.0)
i have separated all the parts of T12X translation stages and when i conect everything as it was, the translation stage is not working anymore, do you have any ideas, what i have made wrong?
jjurado  (posted 2011-03-23 16:20:00.0)
Response from Javier at Thorlabs to chris_coleman: Thank you for submitting your inquiry. The current design of the T12XYZ does not allow for an easy conversion to a left-handed form. The bottom assembly of the xyz mount would have to be redesigned. I will contact you directly for further assistance.
chris_coleman  (posted 2011-03-23 13:11:07.0)
The T12XYZ 3-axis stage is always shown as a right-handed version; can it be converted into a left-handed version?
c.prevost  (posted 2010-11-05 18:26:15.0)
RE: T23X/M minature stage Need allowable moment rating. most interested in the pitch rating. Thanks, Chuck
apalmentieri  (posted 2010-02-03 09:38:22.0)
A response from Adam at Thorlabs to Olivier: I am sorry to hear about your disappointment. To help improve our product line, I would like to discuss this problem with you directly to help determine the most suitable solution.
olivier.theobald  (posted 2010-02-03 06:49:22.0)
I bought 2 XY Tables and i am very disapointed for there is a too much clearance.

Manual Linear Translation Stages

Thorlabs' manual translation stages are offered in a range of maximum travel distances, from less than 1/4" (6 mm) to 2" (50 mm) and longer for our long travel, large area platforms. Many of these stages can be ordered in multi-axis configurations, providing XY or XYZ translation. For fiber coupling applications, please see our Multi-Axis Stages, which offer finer adjustment than our standard manual translation stages. In addition to linear translation stages, we offer rotation stages, pitch and yaw platforms, and goniometers. We also offer motorized translation stages that are powered by DC Servo motors, stepper motors, or direct drive technology.

Crossed-Roller Bearing Stages

These linear translation stages feature crossed-roller bearing travel mechanisms for precision motion, high load capacity, and low angular deviation. The LNR Series stages feature all-steel body construction, while the LX, XRN, and XR Series stage bodies are constructed of cast tool and jig aluminum. We also offer several vertical crossed-roller bearing stages (see below).

Crossed-Roller Bearing Stages
Product Family LNR Series 25 mm Stages LX Series 25 mm
Stages
XRN Series 25 mm Stages XR Series 25 mm Stages XR Series 50 mm Stages LNR Series 50.8 mm Stages
Click Photo
to Enlarge
Travel 25 mm (0.98") 25 mm (0.98") 25 mm (0.98") 25 mm (0.98") 50 mm (1.97") 50.8 mm (2")
Drive Type Multiple Micrometer Micrometer Micrometer Micrometer Multiple
Platform Size 2.34" x 2.36"
(59.4 mm x 60.0 mm)
2.56" x 2.56"
(65.0 mm x 65.0 mm)
2.00" x 3.35"
(50.7 mm x 85.0 mm)
2.98" x 4.33"
(75.7 mm x 110.0 mm)
2.98" x 5.51"
(75.7 mm x 140.0 mm)
3.94" x 3.94"
(100.0 mm x 100.0 mm)
Possible Axis
Configurations
X, XZ, XY, XYZ X, XY, XZ, YZ, XYZ X, Y, Z, XY, XZ, YZ, XYZ X, Y, Z, XY, XZ, YZ, XYZ X, Y, Z, XY, XZ, YZ, XYZ X, XY, XYZ
Additional Details

Ball Bearing Stages

These translation stages feature hardened steel linear bearings for precise motion and long life. They are available with a variety of actuators and in single-axis or preassembled multi-axis configurations.

Ball Bearing Stages
Product Family MS Series 1/4" Stages T12 Series 1/2" Stages MT Series 1/2" Stages PT Series 1" Stages LT Series 2" Stages
Click Photo to Enlarge
Travel 1/4" (6.4 mm) 1/2" (12.7 mm) 1/2" (12.7 mm) 1" (25.4 mm) 2" (50 mm)
Drive Type Multiple Thumbscrew Multiple Multiple Differential Micrometer
Platform Size 1.17" x 1.17"
(29.7 mm x 29.7 mm)
0.76" x 0.81"
(19.3 mm x 20.6 mm)
2.40" x 2.41"
(61.0 mm x 61.2 mm)
3.00" x 4.00"
(76.2 mm x 101.6 mm)
3.75" x 3.75"
(95.3 mm x 95.3 mm)
Possible Axis Configurations X, XY, XYZ X, XY, XYZ X, XY, XYZ X, XY, XYZ X, XY, XYZ
Additional Details

Dovetail Stages

These compact stages incorporate dovetails and a leadscrew for the translation mechanism. They are suitable in general purpose motion control applications.

Dovetail Stages
Product Family DT Series 1/2" Stages DTS Series 1" Stages
(Vacuum-Compatible Version Available)
DTS Series 2" Stage
Click Photo to Enlarge
Travel 1/2" (12.7 mm) 1" (25 mm) 2" (50 mm)
Drive Type Thumbscrew Thumbscrew Thumbscrew
Platform Size 1.00" x 1.00" (25.4 mm x 25.4 mm) 2.68" x 2.95" (68.0 mm 75.0 mm) 2.68" x 3.74" (68.0 mm x 95.0 mm)
Possible Axis Configurations X, XY, XYZ X, XY, XYZa X, XY, XYZ
Additional Details
  • The DTSA03 anodized angle bracket designed for XYZ configurations may also be used with the DTS25V(/M) vacuum-compatible stages; however, the DTSA03 is not vacuum-compatible.
  • The 1" (25 mm) travel DTS Series features an anodized DTS25(/M) stage and a DTS25V(/M) stage that is vacuum-compatible down to 10-6 Torr.

Flexure Stages

Thorlabs' Nanoflex™ translation stages feature frictionless flexure mechanisms for improved positioning and resolution when compared to similar stages made using bearings. The translation of the stage is accomplished by the elastic deformation (flexing) of a linkage attached to the mounting platform. Most models also include piezo actuators for small position adjustments.

Flexure Stages
Product Family Nanoflex™ 1.5 mm Stage Nanoflex™ 5 mm Stages
Click Photo to Enlarge
Travel 1.5 mm (0.06") + 25 µm Piezo 5 mm (0.20") 5 mm (0.20") + 20 µm Piezo
Drive Type Thumbscrew and Piezo Actuator Differential Micrometer Differential Micrometer and
Open-Loop Piezo Actuator
Differential Micrometer and
Closed-Loop Piezo Actuator
Platform Size 1.18" x 1.18" (30.0 mm x 30.0 mm) 2.95" x 2.95" (75.0 mm x 75.0 mm)
Possible Axis Configurations X, XY, XYZ X, XY, XYZ X, XY, XYZ X, XY, XYZ
Additional Details

Vertical Stages

We offer vertical translation stages with crossed-roller bearings for precise motion as well as long travel vertical stages for heavy-duty applications.

Vertical Stages
Product Family XRN Series 9 mm Vertical Stage XR Series 14 mm Vertical Stage MVS Series 1/2" Vertical Stage MVS Series 1" Vertical Stage VAP Series 4" Vertical Stage VAP Series 10" Vertical Stage
Click Photo to Enlarge
Travel 9.0 mm (0.35") 14.0 mm (0.55") 1/2" (13.0 mm) 1" (25.0 mm) 4" (101.6 mm) 10" (254 mm)
Drive Type Worm-Gear Driven Lift Screw Micrometer Adjuster Knob and Coarse Manual Positioning
Platform Size 2.00" x 2.00"
(50.7 mm x 50.7 mm)
2.98" x 2.98"
(75.7 mm x 75.7 mm)
2.36" x 2.36" (60.0 mm x 60.0 mm) 3.00" x 6.00" (76.2 mm 152.4 mm)
Additional Details
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Single-Axis Miniature Translation Stage, 1/2" Travel

  • One-Axis Translation
  • 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel

The T12X model is a one-axis translator. This stage features unibody construction, low drift, and smooth motion over the entire 1/2" travel range.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
T12X Support Documentation
T12XMiniature 1/2" Translator, X Configuration, 2-56 Mounting Holes
$321.92
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
T12X/M Support Documentation
T12X/MMiniature 1/2" Translator, X Configuration, M2 Mounting Holes
$321.92
Today
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XY Two-Axis Miniature Translation Stage, 1/2" Travel

  • Two-Axis Translator
  • XY Configuration
  • 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel

The T12XY is a compact, two-axis stage built from only three main components. The perpendicularity between the two axes of motion is set by machining the movable carriage of the first axis and the body of the second axis out of one part. This design approach minimizes the overall size of the translator while ensuring the long-term stability and perpendicularity of the two axes of motion.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
T12XY Support Documentation
T12XYMiniature 1/2" Translator, XY Configuration, 2-56 Mounting Holes
$642.66
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
T12XY/M Support Documentation
T12XY/MMiniature 1/2" Translator, XY Configuration, M2 Mounting Holes
$642.66
Today
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XZ Two-Axis Miniature Translation Stage, 1/2" Travel

  • Two-Axis Translator
  • XZ Configuration
  • 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel

The T12XZ is a compact, two-axis stage built from only three main components. The perpendicularity between the two axes of motion is set by machining the movable carriage of the first axis and the body of the second axis out of one part. The one-piece construction of the vertical support minimizes the overall size of the translator while ensuring the long-term stability and perpendicularity of the two axes of motion.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
T12XZ Support Documentation
T12XZMiniature 1/2" Translator, XZ Configuration, 2-56 Mounting Holes
$661.67
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
T12XZ/M Support Documentation
T12XZ/MMiniature 1/2" Translator, XZ Configuration, M2 Mounting Holes
$661.67
Today
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XYZ Three-Axis Miniature Translation Stage, 1/2" Travel

  • Three-Axis Translator
  • XYZ Configuration
  • 1/2" (12.7 mm) Travel

The T12XYZ translator is a compact, three-axis stage built from only four main components. The perpendicularity between the three axes of motion is set by machining the movable carriage of the one axis and the body of the next axis out of one part. This design approach minimizes the overall size of the translator while ensuring the long-term stability and perpendicularity of the two axes of motion.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
T12XYZ Support Documentation
T12XYZMiniature 1/2" Translator, XYZ Configuration, 2-56 Mounting Holes
$968.16
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
T12XYZ/M Support Documentation
T12XYZ/MMiniature 1/2" Translator, XYZ Configuration, M2 Mounting Holes
$968.16
Today
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Breadboard Mounting Plate

  • Mounts to Imperial and Metric T12 Series Stages via #8 (M4) Counterbore
  • 1/4" (M6) Counterbored Slots for Attaching Plate to Imperial or Metric Optical Tables
  • Four Holes for 2 mm Alignment Pins

The T12B is a universal base plate with counterbored slots on either side that enable obstruction-free mounting of our T12 Series Translation Stages onto an optical breadboard. The T12 translation stage is secured to the mounting plate using an 8-32 or M4 cap screw (one of each is included).

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
T12B Support Documentation
T12BBreadboard Mounting Plate for T12 Stages
$32.37
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Adapter Mounting Plates


Click to Enlarge

T12A2 Adapter on a T12XY Stage
  • Attach to T12 Stages via four Counterbored #2 (M2) Holes
  • Mount Components with #8 (M4) Counterbore or 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole

These adapter plates attach to a T12 translation stage and provide the ability to mount standard optomechanical components. The adapters are secured to a T12 stage using four counterbored holes for #2 (M2) cap screws. The T12A1 has a counterbore for #8 or M4 cap screws that is ideal for mounting components with a tapped mounting hole. When using this adapter, the screw in the counterbored mounting hole must be installed before the adapter is attached to the translation stage. Alternatively, the T12A2(/M) has a tapped 8-32 (M4) hole for attaching parts with a counterbored hole to a T12 stage. The T12A2 includes four 2-56 cap screws, the T12A2/M includes four M2 cap screws, and the T12A1 includes four 2-56 and four M2 cap screws.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
T12A2 Support Documentation
T12A2Customer Inspired! 8-32 Tapped Adapter Plate for T12 Stages
$24.23
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
T12A1 Support Documentation
T12A1Customer Inspired! Counterbored Adapter Plate for T12 Stages
$24.23
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
T12A2/M Support Documentation
T12A2/MCustomer Inspired! M4 Tapped Adapter Plate for T12 Stages, Metric
$24.23
Today