New Scale Technologies - M3-L linear module and developer's kit
- Small: complete, compact system with embedded closed-loop controls. Less than half the size and one-fourth the weight of comparable systems.
- NO external control board is needed.
- Precise: 0.5μm position resolution with six millimeters of travel.
- Low voltage, low power use: runs on 3.3V input, holds position with power off.
- Simple system integration: accepts high-level motion commands DIRECTLY from your system processor, over standard serial interface (I2C or SPI).
- Flexible system, fast time to market: the M3 platform is designed for rapid customization. Modules are configurable for single- or multi-axis motion and travel up to 20 mm.
M3-L MICRO LINEAR ACTUATOR WITH EMBEDDED CONTROLLER
The M3-L is a miniature high-resolution positioning system. It is a “smart” actuator with integrated driver and closed-loop controller inside the actuator.
This compact, powerful motion system helps OEM designers improve performance and reduce the size of instruments in a wide range of applications.
M3-L micro linear actuators add high-resolution positioning to portable and hand-held devices. They accept a 3.3 V supply and high-level input via standard serial interface.
NOTE: Actuator vs. Translation Stage
The M3-L is a linear actuator designed to push or pull a light object. It requires careful attention to loading under static and dynamic conditions. It is not designed to carry a load. If you need to carry a load, please consider the M3-LS Linear Smart Stage instead.
Block Diagram
The M3-L micro linear actuator has an integrated SQUIGGLE motor and controller inside the compact housing. The motor moves a mechanical assembly. The NSE-5310 position sensor detects the movement of a multi-pole magnetic strip attached to the moving mechanical assembly, and provides the direct digital position information to the motion control processor.

The on-board NSD motor drive ASIC accepts commands from the processor and drives the motor. System input is provided as high-level commands from the system microprocessor via standard I2C or SPI serial interface. NO EXTERNAL CONTROL BOARD IS NEEDED. The M3-L linear actuator operates on standard 3.3 V battery power.
Integration and customization
An integration guide and CAD file are available for download (registration required).
New Scale offers both standard and custom M3-L Linear Actuators. In addition to bi-directional (push/pull) systems and custom tips, we can create systems to address your requirements for travel range, module size, force, environmental conditions and more. Learn more about our custom engineering services..
Refer to "Datasheets & Downloads" tab for more specifications.
Applications
- High Resolution Tuning Systems
- Hand-Held Instrumentation
- Precision Photonics
- Targeting Systems
- UAV/UGV Controls and Optics
- Miniature Camera Systems
- Micro Surgical Devices
- Biomedical Inspection/Sampling
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Specifications |
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|---|---|
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Travel Range |
6 mm |
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Max Module Dimensions |
28 x 13.2 x 7.5 mm including controller |
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Speed |
> 5 mm/s |
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Resolution |
0.5 μm |
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Linear Accuracy |
+/- 25 μm |
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Typical Operating Speed and Load |
5 mm/s at 0.15 N load |
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Maximum Load (push-pull stall force with +/- 1 degree axial alignment) |
< 0.20 N |
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Maximum Recommended Mass |
5 grams |
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Digital Interface |
I2C or SPI |
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Input Voltage |
3.1 to 3.6 V |
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Input Power* |
< 0.5 Watts (5mm/s at 0.15N) < 0.2 Watts quiescent |
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Weight of Module (without tip) |
4.5 grams |
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Temperature |
5°C (lower possible; contact factory) to 70°C |
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Compliance |
CE / RoHS |
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Controller Interface |
Via USB adapter from PC or directly via I2C or SPI serial interface |
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Controller |
embedded |
* Power depends on input voltage, speed, and load.
More Product Information
New Scale Technologies (NST)
Embedded Motion Modules Make Great Products Smaller
Founded in 2002, NST develops, licenses and manufactures standard and customized embedded motion modules that fit on your fingertips. These include rotary and linear smart stages that incorporate our patented and proprietary technologies: SQUIGGLE® and UTAF piezoelectric ultrasonic motors, position sensors, precision bearings, drive and control circuits, and microprocessors with closed-loop firmware that connect to New Scale Pathway® PC software.