These optical posts are made of 1.5 in. diameter steel tubing to support the mounting of heavy components with the highest rigidity and thermal stability. Performance options include vibration dampening with higher frequency resonances for high sensitivity measurements and a gear rack set into the rod for rack-and-pinion control over component elevation. Options for mounting to an optical table are direct attachment with an integral tie-down blot or with a steel ring base and pedestal clamp.
- 1.5 in. diameter steel posts for optimal rigidity
- Vibration damping versions with 5X faster vibrational decay times
- Matte finish reduces surface reflections for safe optical systems
- Ideal for mounting heavy components
- Available with gear rack to assist in vertical positioning See All Features
| Compare | Description | Drawings, CAD & Specs | Avail. | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 40 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsOptical Post, 14 in. Height, 1.5 in. Diameter, 1/4-20 Thread | |||||
![]() | 41 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsOptical Post, 7 in. Height, 1.5 in. Diameter, 1/4-20 Thread | |||||
![]() | 42 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsOptical Post, 24 in. Height, 1.5 in. Diameter, 1/4-20 Thread | |||||
![]() | 45 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsDamped Optical Post, Mounting Base, 14 in. Height, 0.29 in. CLR | |||||
![]() | 70 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsOptical Post, Gear Rack, 14 in. Height, 1.5 in. Diameter, 1/4-20 Thread | |||||
![]() | 71 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsOptical Post, Gear Rack, 7 in. Height, 1.5 in. Diameter, 1/4-20 Thread | |||||
![]() | 72 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsOptical Post, Gear Rack, Mounting Base, 24 in. Height, 1.5 in. Diameter | |||||
![]() | 75 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsDamped Optical Post, Gear Rack, Mounting Base, 14 in. Height, 1.5 in. Diameter | |||||
![]() | M-40 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsOptical Post, 355.6 mm Height, 38.1 Diameter, M6 Thread | |||||
![]() | M-41 1.5 in. Optical Support RodsOptical Post, 177.8 mm Height, 38.1 Diameter, M6 Thread |
Features
1.5 inch Diameter Steel Tubing Construction
Newport optical support rods are made of 1.5 in.(38.1 mm) diameter steel tubing, whose material properties allow for greater dynamic rigidity than aluminum designs, as well as thermal stability. The optical support rods are made round to < 1/1000 of an in. (12 µm) for precise, reproducible mating of rod-mounted components. The matte finish of the rods provides a low-reflectivity surface that is resistant to gouging, scratching and corrosion. The hollow-core construction provides even the standard (undamped) support rods with lower vibration amplitudes and higher resonant frequencies, often preferred for sensitive optical systems. The inherently greater stiffness and strength of these steel rods provides its support for larger and heavier optical components.
A Variety of Optical Support Rods
Models 40 and 70 have the sturdiness suitable for the majority of general laboratory applications. Both models are 14 in. (356 mm) tall.
Models 41 and 71 short rods are 7 in. (178 mm) tall and have a smaller resonant vibration amplitude than the longer rods. Their low profile makes them ideal for compact experimental setups.
Models 42 and 72 rods, which have integrated bases, are a full 24 in. (610 mm) tall for use in experimental setups requiring extra height such as laser beam routing for microscopy applications.
Models 45 and 75 feature patented internal damping system which provides the utmost vibrational immunity from the environment.
Models 70, 71, 72 and 75 have a nylon gear rack set into the rod for rack-and-pinion control over component elevation.
Damped Rods
Convenient Table Mounting
Accessories for a Variety of Applications
Newport has designed several accessories that securely mount onto 1.5 in. rods to support and enhance a variety of applications. Optical support platforms are available to provide stable mounting surfaces for optical components at any orientation, angle and height on the post. Our Quick Disconnect Optical Rod Clamps allow components to be detached and attached quickly and easily, which is beneficial when changing or experimenting with different setups. The 625-RC Kinematic Mirror Mounts enable precise beam positioning for 2, 4, and 6 in. diameter mirrors, with either 100-TPI adjustment screws or micrometers for an orthogonal 10° angular adjustment range.
Accessories
Rod Wrenches
These convenient rod drivers allow you to easily tighten or loosen standard optical support rods like models 40, 41, 70, and 71 to an optical table surface.

























