Q: What is the difference between open-loop and closed-loop Picomotors?

A: Steps with the open-loop Picomotor are not repeatable. The open-loop Picomotor has no feedback mechanism to measure how far it has moved. The open-loop Picomotor experiences hysteresis, which means that moving 1000 steps forward and then 1000 steps backward will not necessarily bring you back to the same place. If it is important for you to be able to get back to the same exact place when moving your Picomotor, you should purchase a closed-loop Picomotor (8310, 8410, or 9066-COM-E with open-loop Picomotor attached).

Q: What other parts do I need to run my Picomotor?

A: In general, you can order the 8742-4-KIT, which will contain the driver and all the cabling you need. Exceptions: -Closed-loop Picomotors (8310, 8410, 906X-COM-E) will require the 8743-CL-2-KIT. -Three Axis Mirror Mounts (8806, 8808, 8809, 8812, 885X, and 8051) require one 8725 adaptor cable to connect to the 8742 controller. -Kinematic Multi-Axis Stages (8071, 8081, 8082, 8095) require two 8725 adaptor cables to connect to the 8742 controller. The 8081, 8082, and 8095 would further require the 8742-8-KIT, since they have more than 4 axes of motion.