Products Home / Optomechanical Components / Optical Cage Systems / 30 mm Cage Components / 30 mm Cage Plates / Standard 30 mm Cage PlatesStandard 30 mm Cage Plates
- Compatible with 30 mm Cage Systems
- Designed for use with ER Construction Rods
- Mount Optics from Ø5 mm to Ø1" and Lens Tubes
CP35
Double Bore for
Ø1" Optics
CP36
Ø1.2" Double Bore for
SM1 Lens Tubes
CP32
Internal SM05 Threads
CP02F
SM1-Threaded
Dual Flexure Cage Plate
The CP02F Cage Plate’s flexure arm automatically compensates for cage rod misalignment to prevent cage plate binding.
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| Alternative Size Options |
|---|
| 16 mm Cage Plates |
| 30 mm Cage Plates |
| 60 mm Cage Plates |
The Cage Assembly System provides a convenient way to construct large optomechanical systems with an established line of precision-machined building blocks designed for high flexibility and quick, accurate alignment. The 30 mm cage plates featured below provide a means for mounting optical components with diameters ranging from 5 mm to 1" within a cage system. Many of the components are post mountable via an 8-32 (M4) tap in the cage plate (see below for details).
Cage System Compatibility: Thorlabs offers 16 mm, 30 mm, and 60 mm cage systems primarily designed for Ø1/2", Ø1", and Ø2" optical components, respectively. The parts on this page are compatible with our 30 mm cage system and utilize Ø6 mm ER cage rods.
Click to Enlarge
Many of Our Cage Plates Have Internal SM1 Threads
Click to EnlargeCP42 Cage Plate Mounting an RMS-Threaded Objective in a 30 mm Cage System
| Selection Guide | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Item # | Inner Bore | Plate Thickness | Post Mounting | Cage Rod Locking Mechanismf |
| CP32(/M) | SM05 Threadeda | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP33(/M) | SM1 Threadeda | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP33T(/M) | SM1 Threadeda | 0.50" (12.7 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP02F(/M) | SM1 Threadeda | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) 1/4"-20 (M6) |
Cap Screw Flexure, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP08(/M) | SM1 Threadeda | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Cap Screw Flexure, 3/32" (2.5 mm) Hex |
| CP4S | SM1 Threadeda | 0.16" (4.0 mm) | N/A | Setscrew, 0.05" (1.3 mm) Hex |
| CP6T | SM1 Threadeda | 0.24" (6.0 mm) | N/A | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP8T | SM1 Threadeda | 0.31" (8.0 mm) | N/A | |
| CP42(/M) | RMS (0.800"-36) Threaded | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP13(/M) | C-Mount (1.00"-32) Threaded | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP14(/M) | Ø1/2" Double Bore with Setscrew | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP35(/M) | Ø1" Double Bore with Setscrew | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP06F(/M) | Ø1" Double Bore with Setscrew | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Cap Screw Flexure, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP36 | Ø1.2" Double Boreb with Setscrew | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | N/A | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP37(/M) | Ø35 mm Double Borec with Setscrew | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP38 |
SM1 Threadeda | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | N/A | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP38T | SM1 Threadeda | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | N/A | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP1Mxx |
M6, M8, M9, M10, or M12 Threadedd | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CPNxx |
M5.5, M6.5, M8.5, M9.5, M15.5, 0.750"-40, or M20.5 Threadede |
0.23" - 0.40" (5.7 mm - 10.2 mm) |
N/A | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CP31(/M) | None | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | 8-32 (M4) | Setscrew, 5/64" (2.0 mm) Hex |
| CPG3 | Cage Plate Gasket for Light-Tight Applications | |||
| ERCPS | Cage Plate Stops for Precise Alignment | |||
| CPA1 CPA2 VRC4CPT VRC6SCPT |
Alignment Guides for the 30 mm Cage System | |||
Cage System Overview
The Cage Assembly System provides a convenient way to construct large optomechanical systems with an established line of precision-machined building blocks designed for high flexibility and accurate alignment.
16 mm, 30 mm, and 60 mm Cage System Standards
Thorlabs offers three standards defined by the center-to-center spacing of the cage assembly rods (see image below). The 16 mm cage, 30 mm cage, and 60 mm cage standards are designed to accomodate Ø1/2", Ø1", and Ø2" optics, respectively. Specialized cage plates that allow smaller optics to be directly inserted into our larger cage systems are also available.
Standard Threads
The flexibility of our Cage Assembly System stems from well-defined mounting and thread standards designed to directly interface with a wide range of specialized products. The three most prevalent thread standards are our SM05 Series (0.535"-40 thread), SM1 Series (1.035"-40 thread), and SM2 Series (2.035"-40 thread), all of which were defined to house the industry's most common optic sizes. Essential building blocks, such as our popular lens tubes, directly interface to these standards.
An example of the standard cage plate measurements determining cage system compatibility.
| Standard Cage System Measurements | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Cage System | 16 mm | 30 mm | 60 mm |
| Thread Series | SM05 | SM1 | SM2 |
| Rod to Rod Spacing | 16 mm (0.63") | 30 mm (1.18") | 60 mm (2.36") |
| Total Length | 25 mm (0.98") | 41 mm (1.60") | 71.1 mm (2.8") |
| Cage Components | ||
|---|---|---|
| Cage Rods | 16 mm | These rods are used to connect cage plates, optic mounts, and other components in the cage system. The SR Series Cage Rods are compatible with our 16 mm cage systems, while the 30 mm and 60 mm cage systems use ER Series Cage Rods. |
| 30 mm | ||
| 60 mm | ||
| Cage Plates | 16 mm | These serve as the basic building blocks for a cage system. They may have SM-threaded central bores, smooth bores sized for industry standard optics or to accommodate the outer profile of our SM Series Lens Tubes, or specialized bores for other components such as our FiberPorts. |
| 30 mm | ||
| 60 mm | ||
| Optic Mounts | 16 mm | Thorlabs offers fixed, kinematic, rotation, and translation mounts specifically designed for our Cage Systems. |
| 30 mm | ||
| 60 mm | ||
| Cage Cubes | 16 mm | These cubes are useful for housing larger optical components, such as prisms or mirrors, or optics that need to sit at an angle to the beam path, such as beamsplitters. Our cage cubes are available empty or with pre-mounted optics. |
| 30 mm | ||
| 60 mm | ||
| Post and Breadboard Mounts and Adapters | Mounting options for cage systems can be found on our Cage System Construction pages. Cage Systems can be mounted either parallel or perpendicular to the table surface. | |
| Size Adapters | Cage System Size Adapters can be used to integrate components from different cage system and threading standards. | |
| Specialized Components | Thorlabs also produces specialized cage components, such as Filter Wheels, a HeNe Laser Mount, and a FiberPort Cage Plate Adapter, allowing a wide range of our products to be integrated into cage-mounted optical systems. Explore our Cage Systems Visual Navigation Guide to see the full range of Thorlabs' cage components. | |
| Posted Comments: | |
user
(posted 2021-01-08 14:23:42.857) It would be great to have a common SM1 threaded cage plate like CP33/M available with a fine thread adjuster, similar to CP1LM9. llamb
(posted 2021-01-09 10:08:16.0) Thank you for your feedback. We will consider your suggestion further. For the time being, perhaps our SM1Z or CT1 cage translators could also be of interest to you for your application. Rowan MacQueen
(posted 2020-10-27 16:17:13.35) Hi,
This item (and the metric version of it) isn't showing up on the e.biss system at my institution, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin. I'd quite like to buy it otherwise. YLohia
(posted 2020-10-28 09:26:41.0) Hello, stock items can be purchased by contacting our German Sales Team at sales.de@thorlabs.com or +49 (0) 8131-5956-0. Fang Xian
(posted 2020-10-26 20:15:22.29) Hi，I want to know the diameter of the hole in the middle of CP32 in millimeters. YLohia
(posted 2020-10-26 11:26:31.0) The SM05 threaded hole in the middle of the CP32 has a min minor diameter for 0.508", which is 12.9032 mm. The clear aperture is 10.9mm with the retaining ring installed. More specs for this internal thread can be found here: https://www.thorlabs.com/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup_id=1535&tabname=Threading%20Specs Wance Wang
(posted 2020-01-08 12:29:43.213) Hi, I am building parallel 30mm cages (2 30mm cages sharing 2 common rods). I wonder if you have 30mm plate which has 6 holes for this parallel cages? Of course one can build it with 2 CP33 plates (for example), but I feel an integrated plate is better.
In addition, vertical mount UBP2 also only has 4 holes so it can't mount those parallel cages, and I can't make 2 of them parallel with a 30mm spacing. If there is a vertical plate with 6 30mm hole, it would be great.
Thank you! YLohia
(posted 2020-01-08 03:20:22.0) Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. I have reached out to you directly to discuss the possibility of offering this. John Bragg
(posted 2019-12-16 11:31:12.52) I need the RoHS Compliance Certificate for CP33.
It is not downloadable from the website.
Thank you,
John Bragg
jbragg@cytonome.com YLohia
(posted 2019-12-16 04:19:07.0) Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. I have reached out to you with this information. Bolin Liao
(posted 2019-07-29 21:35:23.807) Hi, I'm wondering what kind of anodization was used for the surface finish of the cage plates? Is it high-vacuum (1e-6 torr level) compatible? If not, could you custom-fabricate the cage plates with stainless steel? Thanks!
Best,
Bolin YLohia
(posted 2019-07-30 11:52:55.0) Hello Bolin, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The cage plates are 6061-T6 aluminum anodized and are not rated for high-vacuum use. For custom item quotes, please email techsupport@thorlabs.com. user
(posted 2019-04-02 11:21:49.95) Hello,
I imported the step file for this item into Autocad and am trying now to export it as a different file type. Autocad says that this model is not "water tight." The CP02T worked fine. Do you have a model that is water tight?
Best,
Jon llamb
(posted 2019-04-11 09:58:45.0) Hi Jon, thank you for your feedback. I have reached out to you directly to troubleshoot, and we will look into updating the web files accordingly. Cedric Hurth
(posted 2019-04-02 04:47:02.66) I would like to submit a customer-inspired design for a modified CP4S, how do I proceed?
Thank you! llamb
(posted 2019-04-03 09:42:46.0) Thank you for your interest! For any product suggestions or improvements, you can email techsupport@thorlabs.com. We are always happy to receive product feedback and new product ideas. I have reached out to you by email in this case to discuss your design further. pszwaykowski
(posted 2017-08-17 14:26:40.89) What are the chances to get a CP01 with clamping features like CP08? I need to modify CP01 plate to accommodate our own creations but can not use the set screws to lock the plate in place. Tightening these screws causes small translation of the plate that can not be easily controlled. tfrisch
(posted 2017-08-28 11:08:53.0) Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. I will reach out to you directly about details to quote this custom plate. ludoangot
(posted 2017-04-10 10:40:26.51) I have a suggestion for new cage plate: one plate able to receive rods from either (or both) of your 30mm and 60mm cage system (e.g. as the CP06 for 30mm, LCP01 for 60mm, LCP02 for both) and offering threaded mounting holes (as several of your surface mounting plate, ex. as the detachable mounting plate of your C1001). This would allow to mount, for example, an industrial or scientific camera at the end or in the middle of a cage. The plate would look like your LCP03 (case of your 60mm cage) but thinner and with many threaded (and unthreaded) holes. tfrisch
(posted 2017-04-27 02:19:41.0) Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. I will reach out to you directly about your application. It would be helpful if you could send a sketch that we could use in our discussion. ludoangot
(posted 2016-09-30 15:05:23.23) I have several of your cage plates, but today I am looking for one with a 30mm inner bore, and you don't seem to offer any. Could you consider making such dimension, or, as an alternative, offer a mounting adapter (sleeve) so a 30mm diameter element (many 3rd party lenses are 30mm in diameter) could fit in one of your cage plate (e.g. the one with 1.2" bore)? jlow
(posted 2016-10-03 01:39:35.0) Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: Yes we can make this. I will contact you directly about quoting this. eddy.porter
(posted 2015-04-21 08:32:23.963) What is the material and finish of CP01/M Cage Plate?
We intend to machine and re-finish the part.
Thanks
Eddy Porter jlow
(posted 2015-04-22 04:08:23.0) Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: The cage plate is made from 6061 aluminum that is anodized with a Type 2 anodization. gir
(posted 2013-05-14 21:54:02.91) FYI: the #8-32 threaded hole on the CP06 is shown in the AutoCAD PDF file, but not in the SolidWorks model. tcohen
(posted 2013-05-15 12:45:00.0) Response from Tim at Thorlabs: Thank you for pointing this out! We will fix this shortly. david.baddeley
(posted 2013-05-14 13:17:16.063) Would you consider offering cage plates with 4-40 threaded holes (to accommodate screws on the ends of cage rods) the drilled and tapped on the sides to allow a second cage system to be attached at right angles.
I've previously had this done on existing plates in a local machine shop, and have found it to be a very efficient way of making 3D cage structures. I now have less access to machining facilities, and though it might be worth suggesting as a product variation. Ideally this would also involve a slight increase (~ 1-2 mm in the width of the plate) as the length of the rod threads is such that they will often engage the rod running through the plate before the end of the rod at right angles is flush with the cage plate surface.
Cage cubes and right angle rods (ER90C) don't work for my application as the position of the right angle needs to be adjustable. Cross couplers (C1A) won't work as they are too large (I'm putting a KC45D gimbal mirror at the intersection of the two cage systems to deflect the beam from one to the other and it won't fit with the C1As there).
many thanks,
David cdaly
(posted 2013-05-16 15:37:00.0) Response from Chris at Thorlabs: Thank you for your suggestion. I will suggest this within our internal discussions. As a quick solution though, would it be possible for you to use C1A, C2A, or ER90C to achieve this as well? cdaly
(posted 2013-03-06 17:59:00.0) Response from Chris at Thorlabs: We haven't specifically tested the gasket in vacuum, but I was able to find another resource that tested the material. The CPG3 is made of Buna-N, which at an exposure to 10^-6 Torr for 336 hours, experienced a weight loss ratio was 1.06, which is a pretty large value as far as outgassing is concerned. At the moment, we do not make a delrin version. These are intended for light tight purposes in a non-vacuum environment. For general purposes the compressiblity of the material is ideal as it allows it to conform to the objects it is between. jlow
(posted 2012-08-09 09:33:00.0) Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. The CPG3 is designed with a large aperture in mind. It is unfortunate that it does not work with the CP08 because of the slits of the side. I have submitted this feedback to our engineering group and we will look into improving this. matthias.sauer
(posted 2012-08-07 13:48:39.0) The gasket is not covering the slits of a CP08 cage plate. To fulfill its intended use, it would be helpful if it optically sealed one side of the cage plate from the other. tcohen
(posted 2012-05-01 12:23:00.0) Response from Tim at Thorlabs: Both the cage system and traditional posts have their uses. The cage system provides an easy way to quickly align along a common optical axis. Posts and post holders allow the flexibility to quickly drop in and adjust the height of a component. Different setups may benefit from one over the other but they are also subject to personal preference. If there is ever a question of which would be preferred, please contact us at techsupport@thorlabs.com where an Applications Engineer will be able to discuss your application and the suitability of the products to fit into your ideal setup. Carlos.Gulien
(posted 2012-04-26 22:33:16.0) Yes, can you provide your professional opinion on using a cage system vs. using standard posts, post holders, pedestals and so on...can you comment on when I should use each system and what are the pros and cons of each, like ease of use vs. stability vs cost vs anything else you have experienced as a scientist. What system are most people using these days? I tend to trust the "herd" if you know what I mean. apalmentieri
(posted 2010-02-08 08:55:52.0) A response from Adam at Thorlabs to Dan: Thank you for your feedback. This does count as customer inspired and I have informed our mechanics division of your feedback. I agree that this would make a good addition to the product line. If it is added, we would offer you a prototype to test out the new design. In the meantime, we can offer this item as a custom. flickingerd
(posted 2010-02-04 18:19:11.0) I wish you had a product like CP06, but for a 2in optic in the 60mm cage system. I can use the FMP2 for my design, but it seems like it will be relatively very wobbly since it doesnt look beefy enough.
Does this count as "customer inspiration"? Laurie
(posted 2008-08-07 09:25:07.0) Response from Laurie at Thorlabs to xavier.schwab: The new metric indicator (i.e., the dot) is a very recent addition to our metric mounts. Unfortunately, this new information must have been added to our website prior to stock depletion of the ones without a metric indicator. There is no difference in the physical functionality of the product. We are merely trying to make it easier/quicker for our customers to look at our parts and know whether they are imperial or metric. That being said, if you would like to return your CP02/M and receive one with a metric indicator, please feel free to speak to our RMA department. We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience we may have caused. xavier.schwab
(posted 2008-08-07 07:17:31.0) Dear Mr., dear Madam,
I will purchase new cage system products. I have a question about the dot near a thread which may signified "Metric". In our actual CP02, we have no dot near the thread but it is a Metric thread. As we would like to keep the same standard, could tell me if its normal?
Best regards,
X. Schwab |
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The CP32 cage plate allows for
Ø1/2" lens tubes to be integrated
in 30 mm cage systems.
- Directly Mounts Ø1/2" Optical Components Within a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- 0.35" (8.9 mm) Thick
- Tapped with Our Standard SM05 Thread (0.535"-40)
- Post Mountable via 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
The CP32(/M) SM05-threaded cage plate is 0.35" (8.9 mm) thick with a center-located SM05 (0.535"-40) threaded bore that is compatible with our popular Ø1/2" lens tubes. The bore can also directly accept a Ø1/2" optic up to 0.2" (5 mm) thick. Two SM05RR retaining rings are included.
Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located M4 locking setscrew, which can be secured using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key. For additional convenience, an 8-32 (M4) tapped hole is provided for post mounting applications.
For those looking to convert from the 30 mm to the 16 mm cage system standard, Thorlabs offers a similar product, the SP05 cage plate.
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- Directly Mounts Optical Components Within a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- 2 Thicknesses Available: 0.35" (8.9 mm) and 0.50" (12.7 mm)
- Tapped with Our Standard SM1 Thread (1.035"-40)
- Post Mountable via 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
The CP33(/M) cage plate is 0.35" (8.9 mm) thick and provides a center-located SM1 (1.035"-40) threaded bore that is compatible with our popular Ø1" lens tubes. The SM1-threaded bore can also directly accept a Ø1" optic up to 0.2" (5 mm) thick. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking setscrew, which can be secured using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key or balldriver.
The CP33T(/M) cage plate is 0.50" (12.7 mm) thick and has a center-located SM1-threaded hole that directly accepts optics up to 0.35" (8.9 mm) thick. It features an extra-thick design with double locking setscrews that enables two extension rods to be inserted end-to-end and firmly locked into place, providing a rigid connection between two cage system subassemblies. The cage rod locking setscrews can be tightened using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key or balldriver.
Each cage plate includes two SM1RR retaining rings and has an 8-32 (M4) tapped hole for post mounting.
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The CP02F(/M) Cage Plate offers a 1/4"-20 (M6) tap for mounting on our Ø1" Posts.
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Cage rod arms can flex to compensate for cage rod misalignment due to tolerance stacking.
- Self-Aligning Cage Rod Arms Eliminate Cage Plate Binding
- Tapped with Our Standard SM1 Thread (1.035"-40)
- Directly Mounts Optical Components Within a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- Post Mountable via 8-32 (M4) and 1/4"-20 (M6) Tapped Holes
The CP02F(/M) Flexure Cage Plate features a flexure arm design for locking onto 30 mm cage rods. This design compensates for the tolerance stacking effects common in cage systems, ensuring that the cage plate never binds or sticks within a constructed cage segment. The cage plate's orthogonal flexure arms remain rigid when handled, but will flex slightly to provide compensation for rod misalignment when installed within a constructed cage segment. This unique feature is illustrated in the diagram to the right. In contrast with the standard setscrew retention method of the CP33 Cage Plate, each CP02F arm clamps onto cage rods using a separate flexure clamp that increases holding force and cage plate rigidity.
Like our CP33(/M) cage plate, it is 0.35" (8.9 mm) thick and provides a center-located SM1 (1.035"-40) threaded bore that is compatible with our popular Ø1" lens tubes. The center-threaded bore of the CP02F(/M) can also directly accept a Ø1" optic up to 0.19" (4.8 mm) thick. Two SM1RR retaining rings are included. The cap screw on each flexure cage rod through hole can be tightened using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key or Thorlabs' HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrews.
For additional convenience, 8-32 (M4) and 1/4"-20 (M6) tapped holes are provided on opposite sides of the cage plate for post mounting applications. For Ø1" optics thicker than 0.125" (3.2 mm), we offer the CP06F(/M) Cage Plate with a Ø1" Double Bore.
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- Directly Mounts Bulk Optics Within a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- Tapped with Our Standard SM1 Thread (1.035"-40)
- Post Mountable Via 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
- Thickness: 0.35" (8.9 mm)
The CP08(/M) Cage Plate provides a more stable clamping mechanism for cage rods than our popular CP33(/M) Cage Plate. It also offers a center-located SM1 (1.035"-40) threaded bore and 8-32 (M4) mounting hole. This cage plate uses a flexure clamping mechanism that increases the surface area in contact with the ER rods. The CP08(/M) uses four side-located 3/32" (2.5 mm) hex cap screws with for securing the cage rods. The central bore of the CP08(/M) can also directly accept a Ø1" optic up to 0.2" (5 mm) thick using two SM1RR retaining rings. One SM1RR retaining ring is included.
Thorlabs also offers the CP02F(/M) Flexure Cage Plate (sold above) with self-aligning cage rod arms that eliminate cage plate binding.
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The CP4S cage plate mounting an SM1FC FC/PC Fiber Adapter Plate within a cage system.
- Directly Mount Optical Components Within a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- 3 Thicknesses Available: 4.0 mm (0.16"), 6.0 mm (0.24"), and 8.0 mm (0.31")
- Tapped with Our Standard SM1 Thread (1.035"-40)
- Not Post Mountable
At 4.0 mm (0.16"), 6.0 mm (0.24"), and 8.0 mm (0.31") thick, respectively, the CP4S, CP6T, and CP8T are the thinnest cage plates we offer. They have a center-located SM1 (1.035"-40) threaded bore that is compatible with our SM1 threaded optomechanical components. These plates allow the close spacing of optical components within a cage system. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking setscrew, which can be secured using a 0.05" (1.3 mm) hex key for the CP4S cage plate or a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key for the CP6T and CP8T cage plates. Unlike the standard cage plates sold above, these cage plates do not offer an 8-32 (M4) tapped hole for post mounting.
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CP42 Cage Plate Mounting an RMS-Threaded Objective in a 30 mm Cage System
- Integrates RMS Components with a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- Tapped with RMS Threading (0.800"-36)
- Post Mountable via 8-32 (M4) Tap
- Thickness: 0.35" (8.9 mm)
The CP42(/M) Cage Plate allows for RMS-threaded components, including many of our microscope objectives, to be incorporated with our 30 mm cage system. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking M4 setscrew, which can be secured using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key. The CP42(/M) can also be post mounted using the 8-32 (M4) threaded hole on the bottom.
We also offer the RMSRR RMS Retaining Ring (not included) for positioning components within the cage plate.
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Click to EnlargeThe CP13(/M) Cage Plate can integrate cameras into a 30 mm cage system.
- Integrates C-Mount Components with a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- Tapped with C-Mount Threading (1.00"-32)
- Post Mountable via 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
- Thickness: 0.35" (8.9 mm)
The CP13(/M) Cage Plate allows for C-Mount-threaded components to be incorporated with our 30 mm cage system. Possible components include our line of C-Mount extension tubes, CMOS/CCD cameras, and camera lenses. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking M4 setscrew, which can be secured using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key. The CP13(/M) can also be post mounted via an 8-32 (M4) tapped mounting hole.
We also offer the CMRR C-Mount Retaining Ring (not included) for positioning components within the cage plate. This cage plate has an inner diameter that is too small to accept Ø1" (Ø25.4 mm) or Ø25 mm (Ø0.98") optics. Optics of thickness less than 0.18" (4.5 mm) with diameters between 0.87" and 0.97" can be secured inside this cage plate using two retaining rings.
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CP14 mounting a Ø1/2" mirror in a cage system.
- Double Bore for Ø1/2" Optics
- Directly Mounts Optical Components Within a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- Post Mountable via 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
- Nylon-Tipped Locking Setscrew
This CP14(/M) Cage Plate allows a Ø1/2" mirror or other optical component to be aligned in our 30 mm cage system. The double-bored mounting area provides two lines of stable contact to hold the optic. It features a top-located, nylon-tipped setscrew, which can be fastened with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key to secure the optic in place. The optic must be at least 0.15" (3.8 mm) thick in order to be properly mounted in the cage plate. The cage plate also has a bottom-located 8-32 (M4) tap for post mounting. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking setscrew, which can be secured using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key.
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CP35 Cage Plate Mounting a Ø1" Lens in Fiber Focusing Application
- Double Bore for Ø1" Optics
- Directly Mounts Optical Components Within a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- Post Mountable via 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
- Nylon-Tipped Locking Setscrew
This CP35(/M) Cage Plate allows a Ø1" mirror or other optical component to be aligned in our 30 mm cage system. The double-bored mounting area provides two lines of stable contact to hold the optic. It features a top-located, nylon-tipped setscrew, which can be fastened with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key to secure the optic in place. The optic must be at least 0.15" (3.8 mm) thick in order to be properly mounted in the cage plate. The cage plate also has a bottom-located 8-32 (M4) tap for post mounting. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking setscrew, which can be secured using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key.
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Two Flexure Cage Plates in a 30 mm Cage System
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Cage rod arms can flex to compensate for cage rod misalignment due to tolerance stacking.
- Self-Aligning Cage Rod Arms Eliminate Cage Plate Binding
- Double Bore for Ø1" Optics
- Directly Mounts Optical Components Within a 30 mm Cage System Assembly
- Post Mountable via 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
- Nylon-Tipped Locking Setscrew
The CP06F(/M) Flexure Cage Plate features a flexure arm design for locking onto 30 mm cage rods. This design compensates for the tolerance stacking effects common in cage systems, ensuring that the cage plate never binds or sticks within a constructed cage segment. The cage plate's orthogonal flexure arms remain rigid when handled, but will flex slightly to provide compensation for rod misalignment when installed within a constructed cage segment. This unique feature is illustrated in the diagram to the right. In contrast with the standard setscrew retention method of the CP35 Cage Plate, each CP06F arm clamps onto cage rods using a separate flexure clamp that increases holding force and cage plate rigidity.
This cage plate is 0.35" (8.9 mm) thick and provides a center-located Ø1" double bore for mounting a Ø1" optic at least 0.125" (3.2 mm) thick. The optic is retained by a nylon-tipped setscrew with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex. The cap screw on each flexure cage rod through hole can be tightened using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key or Thorlabs' HKTS-5/64 Hex Key Thumbscrews.
The CP06F(/M) cage plate can be post-mounted via the 8-32 (M4) tapped hole on the bottom. We also offer the CP02F(/M) Cage Plate with Internal SM1 Threads.
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- Ø1.2" Bore Supports Outside Diameter of SM1 Lens Tubes and C-Mount Extension Tubes
- Compatible with 30 mm Cage Systems
- Nylon-Tipped Setscrew and Double Bore Securely Hold Lens Tubes
- Not Post Mountable
The CP36 cage plate is designed to allow our SM1 Lens Tubes or C-Mount Extension Tubes to slide into the cage plate and be locked in position with a nylon-tipped 8-32 setscrew. This is ideal for situations where it is not desirable to thread the lens tube into one of our threaded cage plates. It will also allow our Ø1.2" free-space isolator packages to be integrated into a 30 mm cage system. A double-bore design gives three points of contact for stable and secure mounting. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking M4 setscrew, which can be secured using a 5/64" (2 mm) hex key or balldriver.
Please note that this cage plate does not feature a tapped mounting hole, unlike many of our other cage plates. Due to the bore size, there would be interference between the threaded stud on our Ø1/2" posts and the clear aperture of the bore. Therefore, this cage plate cannot be used directly with Ø1/2" Posts, and a cage system utilizing this plate must be supported using a different method. For a post-mountable solution, consider our SM1RC or SM1TC lens tube clamps, but note that these parts are not cage compatible.
Zoom- 35 mm Bore Supports Outer Diameter of SM30 Lens Tubes and Ø1.38" Free-Space Isolators
- Designed with the Largest Possible Clear Aperture (Ø35 mm)
- Compatible with 30 mm Cage Systems
- Nylon-Tipped Setscrew and Double Bore Securely Hold Lens Tubes
- Post Mountable with an 8-32 (M4) Tapped Hole
The CP37(/M) cage plate is designed to allow our SM30 Lens Tubes or Ø1.38" Free-Space Isolators to be mounted in our 30 mm cage system. A lens tube or isolator is held in place against an inner double bore by fastening an 8-32 nylon tipped setscrew with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex wrench. This cage plate offers the largest clear aperture (Ø35 mm) possible within a 30 mm cage system assembly and is also suited for supporting long cage assemblies, providing a greater degree of structural rigidity without interfering with the optical path.
The Ø35 mm hole is large enough to allow an SM1-series lens tube to pass through completely unobstructed. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking setscrew; these screws have a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex head and M4 x 0.7 threading.
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CP38T Cage Plate in a
4-Axis Alignment System that can be Used
with Laser Diode Modules and Fiber Collimators.
- Compatible with 30 mm Cage Systems
- CP38: SM1 (1.035"-40) Internal Threading and Smooth Ø2" Outer Diameter
- CP38T: SM1 (1.035"-40) Internal Threading and SM2 (2.035"-40) External Threads
- Ideal for Mounting Cage Assemblies in Optomechanical Mounts Designed for Ø2" Optics
- Not Post Mountable
The CP38 and CP38T are ideal for mounting small cage subassemblies into optomechanical mounts designed for Ø2" optics (such as our KS2 Ø2" kinematic mirror mount) or SM2 threads (such as our SM2-threaded lens tubes). Both plates feature an SM1-threaded (1.035"-40) hole for mounting Ø1" optics up to 0.2" (5 mm) thick. Cage rods can be secured in each cage rod through hole by a side-located 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex setscrew. One SM1RR retaining ring is included. Please note that in order to mount a Ø1" optic in the SM1-threaded hole, two SM1RR retaining rings will be needed.
The CP38 has a smooth Ø2" outer diameter, which works well with Ø2" mounts with a setscrew, while the CP38T has SM2 (2.035"-40) external threads.
Zoom- Internal Threads Compatible with our Premounted Aspheric and Achromatic Lenses
- 0.35" (8.9 mm) Thick Cage Plate
- 8-32 (M4) Tap for Post Mounting
- Compatible with 30 mm Cage Systems
These cage plates are ideal for mounting aspheric or small achromatic lenses in a 30 mm cage system without the use of adapters. They are available with M6, M8, M9, M10, or M12 internal threads. The cage plates with M12 internal threads are ideal for mounting our singlet and triplet fiber collimators with external M12 x 0.5 threading. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking setscrew, which can be secured to a cage rod using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key.
Alternatively, aspheric lenses can be mounted within a cage system using our aspheric lens adapters and a standard SM1-threaded cage plate.
| Item # | Internal Threads |
Base Item # of Compatible Mounted Lenses | Mount Thickness |
|---|---|---|---|
| CP1M06(/M) | M6 x 0.5 | A414TM, C140TME, C151TMD, C392TME, C430TME, C710TME Aspheric Lenses | 0.35" (8.9 mm) |
| CP1M08(/M) | M8 x 0.5 | C021TME, C170TME, C350TMD, C390TME, C440TME, C660TME Aspheric Lenses | |
| CP1M09(/M) | M9 x 0.5 | A110TM, A220TM, A230TM, A375TM, A390TM, A397TM, C036TME, C037TME, C110TME, C220TME, C230TME, C260TMD, C280TME, C330TMD, C340TMD, C560TME, C610TME, C671TME Aspheric Lenses; Ø5 mm, Ø6 mm, and Ø6.35 mm Mounted Achromatic Doublets |
|
| CP1M10(/M) | M10 x 0.5 | C028TME Aspheric Lenses | |
| CP1M12(/M) | M12 x 0.5 | A240TM, C240TME Aspheric Lenses; Ø8 mm Mounted Achromatic Doublets |
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CPN08 Used to Mount an AC080-020-A Unmounted Ø8 mm Achromatic Doublet in a 30 mm Cage System with a KCB1 Mount
- Mount Ø5 mm to Ø20 mm Optics
- Two Retaining Rings Included for Mounting Optic
- Compatible with 30 mm Cage Systems
- Ideal for Use with Unmounted Aspheric and Achromatic Lenses
- Not Post Mountable
These cage plates are designed for mounting optics that have diameters up to 20 mm, such as our unmounted aspheric and achromatic lenses, into a 30 mm cage system. They have M5.5, M6.5, M8.5, M9.5, M15.5, 0.750"-40, or M20.5 internal threads and include two retaining rings of the appropriate size to secure the optic. The SPW801 spanner wrench is recommended when threading the retaining rings into place. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located locking setscrew, which can be secured to a cage rod using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key.
Thorlabs also offers internally threaded, post-mountable fixed mounts, which are not cage compatible, for mounting optics from Ø5 mm to Ø4".
| Item # | Optic Diameter |
CAa | Optic Thickness (Max)b | Internal Threads | Retaining Ring | Mount Thickness | Spanner Wrench |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPN05 | 5 mm | Ø0.15" (Ø3.8 mm) | 0.09" (2.2 mm) | M5.5 x 0.5 | SM5RR | 0.23" (5.7 mm) | SPW205 or SPW801 |
| CPN06 | 6 mm | Ø0.19" (Ø4.8 mm) | 0.11" (2.8 mm) | M6.5 x 0.5 | SM6RR | 0.25" (6.4 mm) | SPW206 or SPW801 |
| CPN08 | 8 mm | Ø0.27" (Ø6.9 mm) | 0.16" (4.0 mm) | M8.5 x 0.5 | SM8RR | 0.30" (7.6 mm) | SPW208 or SPW801 |
| CPN09 | 9 mm | Ø0.31" (Ø7.9 mm) | 0.16" (4.0 mm) | M9.5 x 0.5 | SM9RR | 0.30" (7.6 mm) | SPW209 or SPW801 |
| CPN15 | 15 mm | Ø0.50" (Ø12.7 mm) | 0.21" (5.3 mm) | M15.5 x 0.5 | SM15RR | 0.35" (8.9 mm) | SPW801 |
| CPN18 | 18 mm | Ø0.62" (Ø15.7 mm) | 0.24" (6.1 mm) | 0.750"-40 | SM18RR | 0.40" (10.2 mm) | SPW801 |
| CPN20 | 20 mm | Ø0.68" (Ø17.3 mm) | 0.24" (6.1 mm) | M20.5 x 0.5 | SM20RR | 0.40" (10.2 mm) | SPW801 |
Zoom- Ideal for Custom Machining to Mount Non-Standard Components
- Designed for 30 mm Cage System
- Post-Mountable via 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) Tapped Hole
- Black-Anodized Aluminum
Blank cage plates are ideal when standard threads and hole sizes are insufficient for custom mounting and OEM-level requirements. Custom hole sizes and threads can be machined using drill bits and taps; one surface of the cage plate has a small dimple in the center to aid in alignment when machining a bore. One side of the cage plate has an 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) tapped hole for post mounting. Each cage rod through hole is accompanied by a side-located M4 locking setscrew, which can be secured using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key.
Thorlabs also offers the SP01 16 mm and LCP03(/M) 60 mm blank cage plates.
Zoom- Highly Compressible Material Blocks Light Between Mating Optical Mounts
- Perfect for use with Light-Sensitive Instrumentation
- Typically used in a 30 mm Cage Assembly
This optical gasket is used to create a light-tight interface between two mating optical mounts. The highly compressible foam, measuring 0.25" (6 mm) thick in an uncompressed state, can easily adapt to uneven surfaces to maintain a light-tight seal between mating parts.
Most commonly used in cage assemblies, these gaskets are perfect for highly sensitive instrumentation such as CCD cameras and amplified photodiodes where ambient lighting is sufficient to saturate detection equipment or degrade signal-to-noise ratios.
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ERCPS Cage Plate Stops snap onto cage rods without any disassembly of the cage system.
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ERCPS Cage Rod Stops can mark the position of cage components.
- Marks the Position of Cage Components
- Flexure Clamping Mechanism
- Sold in Packs of Four
ERCPS Cage Plate Stops mark the position of a cage plate, allowing it to be reliably moved and repositioned in a cage system. These clamps are 0.14" (3.6 mm) thick and are compatible with our Ø6 mm cage rods for 30 mm and 60 mm cage systems. Utilizing a flexure design, the clamps are secured in place using a 0.05" (1.3 mm) hex key. They can be easily clamped onto the middle of a cage rod without removing other components.
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Back View of VRC4CPT
- Quick, Drop-In Beam Alignment Tool
- Small Through Hole Aligned at Center of 30 mm Cage Assembly
The CPA1 and CPA2 Alignment Plates are convenient tools for aligning cage-based optical systems. These drop-in plates feature a small through hole at the exact center of the 30 mm cage assembly that is used for aligning visible beams. For easy alignment, the through hole is surrounded by engraved rings, which indicate Ø4 mm, Ø7 mm, Ø10 mm, and Ø13 mm. The CPA1 provides a Ø0.9 mm through hole, while the CPA2 provides a Ø5 mm through hole.
The VRC4CPT and VRC6SCPT Alignment Plates are specifically designed to align IR or MIR beams in a cage-based optical assembly. Both plates are identical to the CPA1 (shown to the left) on the front. The back (shown to the right) of the VRC4CPT includes a Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm), non-rotating IR-sensitive fluorescing alignment disk made of the same material used in our VRC4 Viewing Card. Alternatively, the back of the VRC6SCPT includes a Ø0.39" (Ø10.0 mm), non-rotating MIR alignment disk is made of the same thermochromic liquid crystal material used in our VRC6S Viewing Card, which reacts to laser sources over the 1.5 to 13.2 µm wavelength range, and has a minimum detectable power density of 0.05 mW/mm2 at 1550 nm (22 °C). The VRC4CPT plate has a Ø1.5 mm hole centered on the plate's Ø0.9 mm hole, and the VRC6SCPT has a Ø2.0 mm hole centered on the plate's Ø0.9 mm hole.
| Item # | Wavelength Range | Emission Band | Minimum Detectable Power Density | Active Region Diameter | Alignment Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VRC4CPT | 790 - 840 nm, 870 - 1070 nm, 1500 - 1590 nm |
~520 to 580 nm | N/A | 1/2" (12.7 mm) | Ø0.9 mm Hole in Plate Ø1.5 mm Hole in Disk Center |
| VRC6SCPT | 1.5 to >13.2 µm | N/A | 0.05 mW/mm2 @ 1550 nm (22 °C) | 0.39" (10.0 mm) | Ø0.9 mm Hole in Plate Ø2.0 mm Hole in Disk Center |
Standard Cage Plates