Based on the TCP/IP Internet communication protocol, the XPS controller can utilize up to 80 virtual communication ports, known as sockets. Users can split their application into segments that run independently on different threads or even on different computers. Another practical advantage for many laboratory users is that sockets allow them to concurrently share the same controller for different applications. For example, it is possible for one group to use one axis of the XPS controller for an optical delay line while another group simultaneously uses the other axes for a totally different application. Both applications can run independently without any delays or cross-talk.

In the example below, a thread on socket 1 commands an XY stage to move to certain positions to take pictures while another thread on socket 2, independent of socket 1, concurrently manages an auto-focusing system.

Higher axis (12 or 16) options, split AC power input, EtherCAT communication, and absolute encoder interface are available upon request. Contact Newport for more information.

Functions dedicated to automated alignment of optical fibers or silicon photonics are implemented in the XPS controller.

In addition to hardware solutions, MKS has also developed algorithms that will make it easier to optimize and speed up fiber alignment. In our XPS-D Motion Controller, 7 alignment algorithms in the form of Application Programming Interface (API) are available in the firmware. When programming the fiber alignment system, any of these API functions can be used via a simple command to execute a motion pattern. For more details, check out our Optical Fiber Alignment White Paper.

Note that the PDSA is currently only usable with the first configured MultipleAxesGroup.

Refer to Section 15.0 in the XPS Controller Features Manual for more information on the different APIs.

Refer to optical fiber alignment page for an application example and comparison of the different algorithms (advantages and disadvantages).

The XPS Universal High-Performance Motion Controller and Driver is compatible with the motorized stages and actuators from the product series listed below. For more details – including required driver cards and cables – please see the Stage and Controller Compatibility technical note or the motorized stage's or actuator's series page.

Motorized Linear Stages

• Precision, Compact, VP Linear Stages

• Miniature Steel MFA DC and Stepper Motor Linear Stages

• Mid-Travel Steel UTS DC and Stepper Motor Linear Stages

• Ultra-Precision XM Linear Motor Stages

• MLT Series Low-Profile High-Precision Linear Motor Stages

• High-Performance Mid-Travel ILS DC and Stepper Motor Linear Stages

• High Performance Mid-Travel ILS-LM Linear Motor Stages

• High Torque GTS Linear Stages

• High Load Capacity Steel MTN DC and Stepper Motor Linear Stages

• One-XY, Mid-Travel Integrated XY Linear Stages

• High-Performance Long-Travel IMS DC and Stepper Motor Linear Stages

• High-Performance Long-Travel IMS-LM Linear Motor Stages

• Industrial Grade Long-Travel IDL Linear Motor Stages

Motorized Rotation Stages

• Low Profile PR50/SR50 DC and Stepper Motor Rotation Stages

• High-Performance RV DC and Stepper Motor Rotation Stages

• Precision URS DC and Stepper Motor Rotation Stages

• High Speed RGV Direct Drive Rotation Stages

• High Speed Belt Driven URB Rotation Stage

• High Angular Stiffness Rotation Stages

• Integrated Vertical and Rotation ZVR DC and Stepper Motor Stages

• High Precision BGM and BGS DC and Stepper Motor Goniometric Cradles

Motorized Vertical Linear Stages

• Precision Compact VP Vertical Linear Stage

• Steel UZ Vertical Linear Stages

• High-Precision GTS Vertical Linear Stages

• Ultra-Precision XMS Direct Drive Vertical Linear Stages

• High-Performance Long-Travel IMS-V Vertical Linear Stages

• Industrial Grade IDL-V Vertical Linear Stage

Motorized Actuators

• TRA Compact Actuators

• TRB Compact Actuators

• LTA Precision Actuators

• VP High Precision Actuator

• NPA-D Nanopositioning Piezo Stack Actuators