The MFC-2000 has been specifically designed to provide a high resolution and highly repeatable, means of controlling the focus/Z position of the microscope stage. Precise control of the microscope’s focus is obtained through the use of a closed-loop DC servomotor employing high resolution encoders for positioning feedback. By using closed-loop control of the focus position, there is no chance that the focus point can be lost as can occur with open-loop stepper motors.

Rather than a one-size-fits-all design, the Z-axis drive is custom designed for each microscope, and when installed, they become an integral part of the microscope. A switch located on the control console operates a clutch that disengages the motor drive from the fine focus shaft when the drive is not needed. When disengaged, the position still displays and is still available for interrogation by computer, and the microscope can be focused manually without any drag or twisting cables.

Installation of the Z-axis drive requires no modification to the microscope other than removal of the fine focus knob and replacement of a back plate or base plate, depending on the particular microscope. All of the necessary hardware components, tools and detailed instructions, including a videotape on installing the drive, are provided with every unit.

The microprocessor-controlled MFC-2000 control unit provides for RS-232 communication with a host computer. High-speed serial communication using USB is also possible.