New compact single-axis controller offers premium performance at a cost-effective price

19.08.26

Prior Scientific has launched the ES12ZETTL, a compact single-axis stepper motor controller designed to simplify control of motorized focus axes, filter wheels, filter turrets, nosepieces and other single-axis devices. The controller combines high-resolution motion performance, plug-and-play device sensing, encoder support, and extensive transistor-transistor logic input/output (TTL I/O) in a cost-effective format for OEM integration, automated microscopy and precision inspection systems. 

It’s the successor to Prior’s popular ES10ZE focus controller and offers far more functionality than the older model: 

Versatile range of applications.  

While the ES10ZE controlled only linear focus motors, the ES12ZETTL is compatible with both linear and rotary devices, such as Prior's HF108B filter wheel. By having one operational mode for each group of devices, the ES12ZETTL can support more single-axis Prior devices than any previous Prior controller. This is especially valuable for clients looking to integrate a single Prior device into their system.  

Greater reliability in complex, automated workflows.  

The built-in support for linear and rotary encoders for closed-loop operation ensures high positioning accuracy, excellent repeatability, and error correction. It is designed for both software and hardware interfacing with other devices via USB port and linked via PC or directly interfaced with other controllers via transistor-transistor logic (TTL). The 10 TTL inputs and 5 TTL outputs enable precise timing and synchronization between multi-position focus or rotary devices for complex workflows.  

OEM-compatible form-factor.  

In addition to the standard benchtop version (pictured), the ES12ZETTL is available with OEM casework for simple, seamless integration into automated imaging devices. In contrast to the ES10ZE, all human interfacing features of the ES12ZETTL are tied to an optional CS200Z joystick rather than being built into the controller. Combined with an open SDK/DLL, adding a Prior device to an OEM instrument and using the ES12ZETTL to control it couldn’t be simpler.  

Modern Design.  

The ES12ZETTL is designed with USB-C 2.0 connectors and a compact TTL I/O for fast, reliable connections. Furthermore, it is simple to maintain and upgrade via an easy-to-use firmware update tool. This next generation OptiScan controller also has more in common with Prior’s ProScan III technology. It offers 1/250 microstep resolution and higher drive current, enabling maximum performance from Prior’s latest devices, but at an OptiScan controller price point. It offers plug-and-play sensing for Prior devices, such as the HF108B filter wheel and the FB210 focus motor, for fast, easy installation to upgrade existing equipment.  

As well as OEM system development, typical applications for the cost-effective controller include fluorescence microscopy, metrology, confocal and super-resolution microscopy, and industrial inspection. From automated Z-stacking to rapid, TTL triggered filter switching, the ES12ZETTL (alongside a suitable Prior device) can add value to both very simple and very complex microscope systems. 

The controller is compatible with third-party software and stepper motor devices.