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Press Release Detail: Thorlabs Introduces Line Of Lightweight, Compact Motorized Actuators Newton, NJ, May 1, 2002 Thorlabs Inc., a leading manufacturer of innovative photonics products, announces the introduction of a new family of affordable Motorized Actuators. These Motorized Actuators offer accurate, high-resolution motion control and placement for precision processes such as fiber-optic alignment and positioning. Compared with similar Motorized Actuators, they are easier to control and offer better price-to-performance ratios. This new series of actuators are offered in 6mm, 13mm, and 25mm travel lengths. Two mounting options, 1/4-80 threads or 3/8" mounting shoulder, allow these actuators to be direct drop-in replacements for manual adjusters in most translation stages and optical mounts. The compact design of these actuators, combined with a powerful 12V miniature DC motor allows for quick, precise adjustments in most applications. A high-resolution rotary encoder provides 12,288 counts per revolution at the lead screw resulting in a 0.2µm minimum incremental movement. Electromechanical limit switches prevent over extension of the actuator. All of these features combined together in a lightweight package at a fraction of the cost of comparable models make these actuators ideal for automating almost any application. Thorlabs engineer Jason Mills commented, "I think our customers will find these compact actuators surprisingly powerful." About Thorlabs Inc.: Thorlabs, Inc. specializes in the building blocks for laser and fiber optic systems. From opto-mechanical components to telecom test instrumentation, Thorlabs' extensive manufacturing capabilities produce high-quality, well-priced components and devices for next-day delivery. Founded in 1989, the company remains a leader in the development and creation of advanced optical products for the commercial and research marketplaces. The company is headquartered in Newton, New Jersey, and has offices in Grünberg, Germany. To obtain more information, specifications, and images, visit www.thorlabs.com, or contact Thorlabs' Tech Support by phone at (973) 579-7227 or email at techsupport@thorlabs.com.