Multiple Benefits for Upright Microscopes Provided by Innovative New Stage

A new flat top motorized stepper stage for upright microscopes has been developed with an innovative set of features to provide superior performance and to simplify use.

Prior Scientific (Rockland, MA, USA) introduces its “H101F ProScan Flat Top Motorized Stepper Stage” for upright microscopes. Featured benefits of the new ProScan H101F include a completely flat top plate design that eliminates obstacles to objective rotation, providing unlimited obstruction-free space for objective (and nosepiece) rotation. Ultra low profile sample holders facilitate the use of high NA objectives while the latest in miniature high-torque motors facilitate access to the condenser and other microscope adjustments. Ample top plate area facilitates the use of environmental chambers and micromanipulators while externally adjustable limit switches allow for simple and quick stage travel adjustment. The larger sample area accommodates a variety of applications (e.g., large tissue sections and other custom sample holders). The H101F also features smaller gauge stage cables, which simplify cable routing.


The H101F stage is compatible with a wide variety of image analysis-software programs when controlled with the Prior ProScan III controller. The H101F ProScan stage also incorporates the patented Intelligent Scanning Technology (IST). In conjunction with extensive testing, IST allows each stage to be preprogrammed with a unique set of operating characteristics particular to that stage to ensure optimum performance. IST (also available on H101A, H107, and H117 models) allows the ProScanIII controller to make required adjustments to maintain superior orthogonally and metric accuracy.

Optional embedded high-resolution XY encoders provide the highest precision available. The H101F stages come with a range of ball screw-pitch options—a 1 mm pitch ball screw for accuracy and smoothness under high magnification and a 2 mm pitch ball screw for faster speeds. Linear or rotary encoders can be fitted to all H101F stages. Older sample holders are compatible with the new H101F by adding a simple adapter plate.

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Prior Scientific
H101F ProScan Flat Top Upright Microscope Stage