Modular multi-axis stepper motor driver with remote control for use in microscopy
Mathias S. Fischer, David Grass, Martin C. Fischer

TL;DR
This paper presents a low-cost, open-source, multi-axis stepper motor controller for microscopy that includes safety features, feedback monitoring, and remote control capabilities, facilitating automated sample positioning.
Contribution
It introduces a novel, versatile controller design with safety, feedback, and remote operation features, along with software libraries and integration for microscopy applications.
Findings
Supports multiple stepper motors with safety features
Enables feedback-based position correction
Provides software libraries and GUI for easy integration
Abstract
Mechanical translation of samples along several axes is often required in microscopy, and automated positioning requires motorizing the translation stages. Stepper motors are commonly employed but require specialized driver electronics for reliable operation. Here we describe a low-cost, open-source controller design that drives several stepper motors and implements important safety features, such as monitoring of mechanical limit switches, stall detection, and protective software limits. If rotational encoders in the motors or linear encoders on the stages are available, the controller can monitor the stage position and correct it in a feedback loop. The stages can be controlled with serial commands via USB, or optionally from a remote control box that incorporates a joystick for real-time multi-axis speed control, rotary dials for fine axis positioning, and a display to indicate the…
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Taxonomy
TopicsForce Microscopy Techniques and Applications · Piezoelectric Actuators and Control · Advanced Electron Microscopy Techniques and Applications
