M3-FS smart module delivers high-precision focus in tiny footprint; helps OEMs miniaturize cameras for medical, industrial and commercial applications

Victor, NY — November 19, 2014 — New Scale Technologies today announced that the new developer’s kit for its M3-FS focus module is available at Digi-Key and Mouser. This miniature all-in-one focus module delivers precision lens motion in small spaces to help OEMs create next-generation handheld, portable and mobile devices.

The M3-FS focus module has 0.5 micrometer precision, works on battery power, and and resists shock, vibration and temperature extremes. It performs at any orientation with high dynamic stability and little or no pixel shift. The integrated controller takes commands directly from the imaging system processor, making the M3-FS the smallest, easiest-to-integrate focus solution for OEM product designers creating miniaturized optical systems for a range of markets.

Examples include handheld analytical instruments such as blood analyzers, portable in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) systems, handheld optometry devices, wearable assisted vision devices, miniature cameras for medical imaging and robotic surgery, handheld video microscopes for clinical imaging, industrial endoscopes and robotic inspection systems, and high-performance UAV and satellite-based cameras.

At 20 x 23 x 16 mm the M3-FS requires no more space than a typical fixed lens mount. It accepts standard lenses up to M16.

M3-FS Specifications

• Size: 20 x 23 x 16 mm
• Image sensor area: 17 x 17 mm
• Lens size: up to M16 (customer-supplied lens)
• Lens position resolution: 0.5 microns
• Linear accuracy: +/- 12 micron
• Dynamic tilt: < +/- 0.05 degrees
• Dynamic concentricity: < +/- 0.002 mm typical
• Input voltage: 3.1 to 3.6 VDC
• Lifetime: > 1 million steps (any orientation)

For complete specifications see https://www.newscaletech.com/micro-mechatronics/m3-focus-modules.php
View the developer’s kit video at https://www.newscaletech.com/videos/m3-fs-devkit.php

Developer’s kit price and availability

The DK-M3-FS-1.8-61.5-M12/16 developer’s kit is available now, through New Scale’s partner ams, at Digi-Key and Mouser starting at $900. The kit includes:
• One M3-FS Focus Module threaded for a standard M16x1 lens (customer-supplied lens)
• An adapter for a standard M12x0.5 threaded lens (customer-supplied lens)
• New Scale Pathway™ software for evaluation and system validation
• A USB adapter to connect the module to a PC
• All cables and instructions

To order search for “M3-FS” at www.digikey.com or www.mouser.com.

M3 “micro-mechatronic module” platform delivers key benefits

The M3-FS focus module is part of New Scale’s M3 “micro-mechatronic module” product lineup: the smallest, highest resolution, most repeatable closed-loop positioning solutions available. Each M3 smart module integrates New Scale’s patented and proprietary SQUIGGLE® piezoelectric motor, drive electronics, position sensors, micro mechanical guides and control technologies. These “all in-one” smart modules plug-and-play directly with the OEM system processor and power supply, for fastest time to market with the lowest total cost.

About New Scale Technologies

New Scale Technologies develops small, precise and smart motion systems for critical adjustments of optics in imaging devices and many other micro positioning applications. Our simple and elegant solutions deliver best-in-class performance in handheld, portable and mobile instruments for medical, scientific and industrial applications. We design and manufacture custom products and license our technology to manufacturers worldwide. Our customers benefit from complete, “all-in-one” motion solutions that are tailored to their unique requirements and easily integrated into their next-generation instruments.

SQUIGGLE is a registered trademark, and New Scale Pathway and UTAF are trademarks of New Scale Technologies, Inc.

Please note: Press releases are current as published, but are not updated after posting. Refer to our main pages for current information including specifications.