Events - PI (Physik Instrumente) L.P.
SfN 2025: PI Showcases Next-Generation Nanopositioning & Motion Systems for Advanced Microscopy and Life Sciences
This November, leading biologists, neuroscientists, and microscopy experts from around the globe are once again gathering in San Diego to share groundbreaking research, emerging technologies, and new perspectives shaping the future of life sciences. PI (Physik Instrumente) engineers will be on site to discuss precision motion and nanopositioning solutions that empower cutting-edge imaging and bio-research — from super-resolution microscopy to live-cell imaging and 3D optical metrology.
Renowned for its innovations in piezo-based nanopositioning, PI continues to advance imaging performance with next-generation nano- and micro-positioning systems designed for super-resolution and high-speed microscopy.
Democratizing the Advantages of Ultrasonic Motors for Microscopy
PI’s new U-781 PILine XY microscope stage system exemplifies the power of ultrasonic piezomotor technology, combining a low-profile design with exceptional in-position stability and a velocity range spanning from microns per second to over 100mm/s. This wide dynamic range makes it ideal for applications requiring both slow drift-free imaging and fast sample repositioning. The system comes complete with controllers, software, and an intuitive joystick interface for rapid setup.
New Voice-Coil and Piezo-Driven Nanopositioning Systems for Fast, Precise Focusing
The latest P-725 piezo-driven nano-focusing stage for microscope objectives delivers an exceptional 800µm travel range with sub-nanometer resolution, millisecond response times, and frictionless flexure guiding for long-term stability. This expanded motion range enhances OCT scanning and two-photon microscopy, while the upgraded E-709 digital controller ensures seamless integration with leading imaging software platforms.
For applications requiring larger focus travel, PI’s new V-308 voice-coil driven nanopositioning stage provides 7mm of travel with nanometer-level resolution. Its user-adjustable magnetic preload supports a variety of objectives, and the stage can be paired with multiple controller options — from compact OEM modules to full-featured lab controllers — for flexible integration into research and OEM systems alike. An even smaller voice-coil focus stage is available as the V-131.
A new generation of US-manufactured linear-motor stages, with nanometer precision and acceleration to 2g is available for scanning and microtome applications.
Hexapod 6-Axis Stages
PI’s family of motorized 6-axis hexapod parallel manipulators continues to expand, offering sub-micrometer precision and repeatable multi-axis motion for complex sample positioning, optics and beam control, and micro-assembly. Each hexapod provides coordinated motion across six degrees of freedom with built-in coordinate transformation and vector programming, simplifying integration into demanding microscopy and nano-manipulation setups.
Piezo Z-Sample Positioning Stages, XYZ Scanning Stages
Researchers worldwide rely on PI’s fast Z-sample stages and XYZ piezo scanning systems to capture higher-quality images at faster rates. PI’s portfolio supports 3D imaging, deconvolution, super-resolution microscopy, and high-speed auto-focusing — enabling new discoveries in neuroscience, cell biology, and bio-nanotechnology.
