Products HomeMotorized Filter Flip Mounts
- 90° Flipping Between Two Positions
- Accepts up to Two Optic Holders
- Controlled Using Button, Handset,
External Trigger, or Software - Fully Configurable Input and Output Signals
Application Idea
MFF102
Rear View
A Typical Beam Steering Setup with
a Flip Mount in the Beam Path
Remote Handset (Included)
MFF101
Front View
Please Wait
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Flip Positions | 0° and 90° |
| Flip Timea | 500 ms to 2800 ms |
| Optic Diameterb | MFF101: 1" MFF102: 2" |
| Flip to Flip Repeatability | 50 μrad |
| Maximum Driftc | 1.0 µm2 |
| Maximum Loadd | 120 g (4.23 oz) |
| Maximum Torque | 0.1 N•m |
| DIG I/O Connector Typee | SMA (2 Places) |
| Power Input | 15 VDC |
| Weight (Excluding Power Supply) |
100 g (3.53 oz) |
Click to Enlarge
Exploded View of Bracket, 8-32 (M4) Screw, and Setscrews for Optic Mount
Caution
Please do not try to move the flipper arm by hand when the motor is enabled; doing so will permanently damage the internal gearbox.
Please do not try to move the flipper arm by hand when the motor is enabled; doing so will permanently damage the internal gearbox.
Features
- Lens Holder Included
- Compatible with All LMR Series and FMP Series Mounts up to 2.0" Optic Diameter
- Velocity Feedback for Smooth Transitional Motion
- Mechanical Hard Stops for Repeatable Positioning
- 8-32 (M4) Tap for Post Mounting
- Flipper Unit Has Small 30 mm x 30 mm Cross Section
- Remote Handset with 39" (1 m) Cable, APT Software Suite, and Power Supply Included
These Two-Position, High-Speed Flip Mounts flip lenses, filters, and other optical components into and out of a free-space beam. As shown by the image below, up to two optic mounts can be attached to the same flipper unit, allowing the user to alternate between optics. The flip action can be controlled in four ways: by the button on the top of the unit, via the included remote handset, via the external SMA connectors, or via a PC running the included APT software (see the Motion Control Software and APT Tutorials tabs for more information). The flipper position rotates 90° clockwise or counterclockwise when it is toggled and may be toggled either by an absolute signal level (i.e., low and high control voltages correspond to specific flipper positions) or by an edge (i.e., a change in the control voltage level causes the flipper to rotate). The unit has magnetic limit switches at both positions to identify which position the flipper is in.
Click to Enlarge
MFF101 Flipper Mount Shown with LMR1 Lens Mount and FMP2 Fixed Optic Mount (FMP2 Sold Separately)
| Filter Mount Selection Guide |
|---|
| Rectangular Optic Mounts |
| Fast-Change Lens-Tube Filter Holder |
| Cage-Compatible Filter Mounts |
| Filter Mount with Sliding Inserts |
| Manual Flip Mounts |
| Motorized Flip Mounts |
| Piezo-Driven Dual-Position Slider |
| In-Line MM Fiber Optic Filter Mounts |
| Filter Wheels and Cubes |
The flipper units offer a compact 30 mm x 30 mm cross section and have two SMA connectors on the side face, marked DIG I/O 1 and DIG I/O 2, which accept input signals from the remote handset or from an external trigger. They can also be configured by a PC running the included APT software to output signals when "In Motion" or "At Position." Software settings can be saved (persisted) within the unit to enable use without a PC.
The MFF101(/M) comes with an LMR1(/M) Ø1" optic mount, which holds an optic with the included SM1RR retaining ring, while the MFF102(/M) comes with an LMR2(/M) Ø2" optic mount, which holds an optic with the included SM2RR retaining ring. Any of our other mounts from the LMR Series or FMP Series can be attached to the flipper mount, so long as their optic diameter does not exceed 2.0" (50.8 mm). As shown in the image above, a bracket connects the optic mount to the flipper unit. The optic mount is held to the bracket by an 8-32 (M4) screw, and the bracket is held to the flipper unit by a flexure clamp. The flexure clamp tightens using two setscrews that accept the provided 0.035" (0.9 mm) hex key. Two brackets and two 8-32 (M4) screws are provided with each flipper unit.
A bottom-located 8-32 (M4) tapped hole allows the flipper to be mounted on a Ø1/2" post. The flipper is powered by the included 15 V power supply, which ships with a location-specific plug. A 1.5 m (59") long micro-USB to USB cable is also included to connect the flipper to a PC for control and configuration.
The flipper is ideal for use with many types of optics, including mirrors. When used with a mirror, please note that the unit is not recommended for applications requiring better than 100 µrad beam stability. The torque applied to the unit should not exceed 0.1 N•m, and the maximum load capacity, including optic mounts and optics, is 120 g (4.23 oz). The side face of the unit contains an array of vent holes to aid cooling; please ensure that the air flow around these vent holes is not restricted.
DIG I/O
SMA Female
Expects and Outputs TTL Signal Levels
TTL Low: 0 V
TTL High: 5 V
Thorlabs offers two platforms to drive our wide range of motion controllers: our Kinesis® software package or the legacy APT™ (Advanced Positioning Technology) software package. Either package can be used to control devices in the Kinesis family, which covers a wide range of motion controllers ranging from small, low-powered, single-channel drivers (such as the K-Cubes™ and T-Cubes™) to high-power, multi-channel, modular 19" rack nanopositioning systems (the APT Rack System).
The Kinesis Software features .NET controls which can be used by 3rd party developers working in the latest C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any .NET compatible languages to create custom applications. Low-level DLL libraries are included for applications not expected to use the .NET framework. A Central Sequence Manager supports integration and synchronization of all Thorlabs motion control hardware.
Kinesis GUI Screen
APT GUI Screen
Our legacy APT System Software platform offers ActiveX-based controls which can be used by 3rd party developers working on C#, Visual Basic, LabVIEW™, or any Active-X compatible languages to create custom applications and includes a simulator mode to assist in developing custom applications without requiring hardware.
By providing these common software platforms, Thorlabs has ensured that users can easily mix and match any of the Kinesis and APT controllers in a single application, while only having to learn a single set of software tools. In this way, it is perfectly feasible to combine any of the controllers from single-axis to multi-axis systems and control all from a single, PC-based unified software interface.
The software packages allow two methods of usage: graphical user interface (GUI) utilities for direct interaction with and control of the controllers 'out of the box', and a set of programming interfaces that allow custom-integrated positioning and alignment solutions to be easily programmed in the development language of choice.
A range of video tutorials is available to help explain our APT system software. These tutorials provide an overview of the software and the APT Config utility. Additionally, a tutorial video is available to explain how to select simulator mode within the software, which allows the user to experiment with the software without a controller connected. Please select the APT Tutorials tab above to view these videos.
Software
Kinesis Version 1.14.25
The Kinesis Software Package, which includes a GUI for control of Thorlabs' Kinesis and APT™ system controllers.
Also Available:
- Communications Protocol
Software
APT Version 3.21.4
The APT Software Package, which includes a GUI for control of Thorlabs' APT™ and Kinesis system controllers.
Also Available:
- Communications Protocol
These videos illustrate some of the basics of using the APT System Software from both a non-programming and a programming point of view. There are videos that illustrate usage of the supplied APT utilities that allow immediate control of the APT controllers out of the box. There are also a number of videos that explain the basics of programming custom software applications using Visual Basic, LabView and Visual C++. Watch the videos now to see what we mean.
 |
Click here to view the video tutorial | |
To further assist programmers, a guide to programming the APT software in LabView is also available.
 |
Click here to view the LabView guide | |
| Posted Comments: | |
Fabian Brunner
(posted 2021-01-14 11:22:21.067) Hi!
I'm trying to control the flip mount from a C++ program but I always receive an 'LoadDevice failed' message from the FF_Open method of the ThorLabs.MotionControl.FilterFlipper.dll.
In the latest version of the Kinesis software the communication with the flip mount works perfectly. And also in the C++ program the device is found and eg. device information can be read. Only 'opening' the device doesn't work for some reason. Do you maybe have an idea of what could be the cause of this? I tried building the device list as well as closing the device before calling FF_Open without success.
Thanks and kind regards!
The returned error code is 3 and the error message reads '01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1131 Info Loading Device Settings List (Success)
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1131 Info Loading Custome Settings List (Success)
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1146 Diagnostics RegisterDeviceSettingsFactory
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1111 Info Loading Device Configurations
Device = General
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1110 Info Reading Device Configurations
Device = General
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1120 Info Loaded General Settings
OutputDebugMask = 7
OutputLogMask = 31
LoadSettingsOption = 2
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1111 Info Loading Device Configurations
Device = 37003367
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1110 Info Reading Device Configurations
Device = 37003367
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1100 Info Loaded Device Settings
CollateLogging = 0
SettingsName = FilterFlipper
OutputDebugMask = 7
OutputLogMask = 31
DeviceAlias =
LoadSettingsOption = 2
01/14/21 15:41:57.679 1112 Info Storing Device Configurations
Device = 37003367
01/14/21 15:41:58.805 37003367 Error LoadDevice Failed' DJayasuriya
(posted 2021-01-15 11:34:25.0) Thank you for your feedback. I will reach out to you directly to resolve this issue. Cathy Jiang
(posted 2020-12-02 14:33:29.78) Hi I'm looking for a filter motor that is going to be used in automated test equipment. I'm interested in knowing:
1. the highest speed of switching speed
2. if it has been rated for maximum number of runs above 100k times?
3. If the controller gives feedback on the actual position? So if the motor stops working, the testing software gives error message. DJayasuriya
(posted 2020-12-11 08:18:19.0) Thank you for your inquiry. The switching time would depend on the load on the mount, however we spec between 500 ms to 2800 ms. The number of runs also depends on the pay load. If the payload was relatively small we would think it would get fairly close 100 K runs. There is no position feedback only the limit switches at the end of the MFF101. I guess this could be used for a failure mode as by definition when you activate the flipper you know that the current limit switch is active and you know that roughly after the flight time the other one should. In the status bits returned the state of each limit switch is available.
Hope this helps, please get in touch with our tech support team if you would have any questions regarding your application. Tony Denault
(posted 2020-09-30 19:09:57.337) I wish to use this with only DIG input/output (w/o a PC in the loop). Would "Input: Goto Position" mode always set the unit to know a position at power up based on the input?
What is the "enable" on the software? If power was re-cycled on the unit, shouldn't up come up "enable"?
Can I use this only with DIG1 (button input) and DIG2 (output, at position).
Is using a long transit time (2800 ms) best. 3 seconds is no problem for us, is a longer transit time easier for the unit (longer life, etc)? cwright
(posted 2020-10-06 11:38:20.0) Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Hello and thank you for your query. Our technical support will reach out to you directly in regards to your application due to the length and depth of your questions. Gerold Kloos
(posted 2020-09-13 22:27:44.877) Hi
Can you please advise what the power requirements for the filter flipper MFF102/M are?
It's 15V, what current, what power?
Thanks
Gerold YLohia
(posted 2020-10-23 10:23:21.0) Hello Gerold, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The power supply used for this MFF flipper will output 15V and up to 2.4A (36 W). The device will draw varying levels of current during use -- this can depend on the load and the filter position. Mikhail Olegin
(posted 2020-08-08 21:25:31.643) I can't use this flip mount with logic edge input and go to position option without software, because flip mount doesn't enable themself on start. Each time I need to connect with PC and push Enable button. Do you have any solutions of this problem? DJayasuriya
(posted 2020-08-14 04:46:28.0) Thank you for your inquiry. Please ensure that the settings has been persisted into the IO ports so that on power up the mode is correct to operate. The remote input will not work until the button on the unit has been pressed. So you would need to ensure that when the flipper is powered down the payload with gravity will take it to one end stop or another, so that on repower the remote input will work.
The reason being there is no position feedback other than the two end positions so if a trigger signal happens to be active on power up and it is in an unknown state it could just move inadvertently anywhere, which may cause problems/damage. So you have to physically push the button on the unit in these circumstances.
If you have any questions do not hesitate to get in touch with your local tech support team Warren Massey
(posted 2020-07-06 16:21:00.09) When either of the SMA/Digital-I/O ports is configured as an output, how much current can they source and sink? DJayasuriya
(posted 2020-07-17 07:06:18.0) Thank you for your inquiry. These outputs are open collector with a 10K internal pull up so they have to drive a relatively high output impedance.
So the output can sink more than it can source. Say nominally 100 micro-amp source and 10 milli-amp sink.
If you would wanted to drive a low impedance it would need a buffer of some sort in between. HYESANG KIM
(posted 2020-04-23 11:51:56.933) Hello, I got your reply and tried it, thank you. But I got problem with it. The error message "Object reference not set to an instance of an object" (with source : Thorlabs.MotionControl.PrivateInternal)
I think I should use FilterFlipperCLI.dll but yours isn't. If I could've help with it, I would be very thankful. DJayasuriya
(posted 2020-04-24 07:55:48.0) Response from Dinuka at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback, I will be in contact with you directly to help troubleshoot your programming issues. HYESANG KIM
(posted 2020-04-23 04:55:21.59) I am trying to interface with the MFF101/M via using kinesis in MATLAB. If I could have help with any general suggestions with interfacing via MATLAB, I would be very thankful. DJayasuriya
(posted 2020-04-23 10:34:03.0) Response from Dinuka at Thorlabs: Hello, thank you for your inquiry. You will be able to use the communication protocall to send messages to the controller. I will get in touch directly to help with your application. DJayasuriya
(posted 2020-04-23 10:34:03.0) Response from Dinuka at Thorlabs: Hello, thank you for your inquiry. You will be able to use the communication protocall to send messages to the controller. I will get in touch directly to help with your application. ioannis Theodonis
(posted 2019-12-21 19:53:28.993) can we use these to rotate the lambda/2 plates in QKD demonstration experiments through distance over internet? cwright
(posted 2020-01-03 12:24:23.0) Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Hello Ioannis, unfortunately these do not have an ethernet port or a wireless connection to directly facilitate this. The only way I can think to achieve remote control over the internet would be to remotely log in to the controlling PC. Dor Saddan
(posted 2019-12-09 02:30:27.917) I want to use the MFF102/M to flip 2 optical assemblies in/out of a vertical optical axis, i.e. - the unit will hold a ST1XY-S/M + camera in one point and a K5X1 in the other.
What is the maximal loading capacity of the unit in this vertical state? cwright
(posted 2019-12-11 04:18:27.0) Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Hello Dor, unfortunately these devices have not been characterised for a load capacity in anything other than their upright state i.e. a horizontal optical axis, where the limit is 120g. They were only intended for low load capacity applications however and the maximum torque which can be applied is 0.1Nm. Your local technical supprot team will reach out to see how we can help you with your application. Chris Armstrong
(posted 2019-12-02 08:22:32.59) It would be good if we could purchase or request in the initial order additional lens mountings and crucially the small bracket to attach them to the flipper. Often it is useful to have multiple optics or filters mounted to a specific angle and then switch them between flipper motors.
Cheers,
Chris. cwright
(posted 2019-12-03 11:21:26.0) Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Hello Chris. Thank you for your feedback. I can certainly see how this would be useful for some customers and will ensure this idea is put forward for consideration. For now, I will contact you directly to see how we can address your needs. Yaniv Yirmiyahu
(posted 2019-12-02 08:19:21.053) I received two MFF101/M without any "location specific adapter " for the two KPS101 power supplies.
S/N: 37002123 & 37002124
23-Sep-19 cwright
(posted 2019-12-03 11:11:13.0) Response from Charles at Thorlabs: Hello Yaniv. I will contact you directly to get your order details and ensure these are sent out to you as soon as possible. Marty Stevens
(posted 2019-10-11 16:19:16.147) What is the part number for the small trapezoidal bracket for mounting an LMR1 or LMR2 optic holder to the flip mount? I already have the flip mount, but we seem to have lost our adapter brackets. AManickavasagam
(posted 2019-10-15 07:56:16.0) Response from Arunthathi at Thorlabs: Thanks for your query. I have contacted you directly with the part number and further details. Chris Purves
(posted 2019-10-04 13:27:56.777) I'm having a lot of trouble getting the MFF101 to work with LabVIEW using the Kinesis drivers. My problem with is that I cannot get them to work without creating a LabVIEW project. This does not work with our design structure. I have tried loading the .NET drivers into the GAC, but that also didn't work. Do you have instructions for using Kinesis drivers without creating a LabVIEW project? Thanks. AManickavasagam
(posted 2019-10-09 06:51:58.0) Response from Arunthathi at Thorlabs: Unfortunately, you will need to create a LabVIEW project to sort the DLLs for it to work. The .NET assemblies are standard dlls (non-Active-X/COM) that are not easily stored in the Windows Registry. Thus, there are some application-dependent requirements on where the DLL files are required to be stored to run properly. user
(posted 2019-09-26 14:10:55.793) I'm not able to connect to MFF101 using either APT or Kenisis GUI. I'm using the latest version of the software with Windows 10. The flipper does not show up in Device Manager. I've tried two different flippers; no response from either one. rmiron
(posted 2019-09-27 09:16:31.0) Response from Radu at Thorlabs: I am sorry to hear that you are experiencing this connectivity issue. It might be that the USB port or its associated circuitry got damaged in transit. I will send you troubleshooting instructions directly so that we can precisely identify the reason behind this. VIC MCCARN
(posted 2019-07-31 17:19:06.627) I may need to power the MFF101 with a different power supply. What is the tolerance on the 15V input? AManickavasagam
(posted 2019-08-02 10:16:00.0) Response from Arunthathi at Thorlabs: Thanks for your query. Just to point out the warranty on this item would be void once used with a different power supply. However, should you wish to proceed that route the initial set accuracy on the voltage would be ±5% at 50% load. Sooyoung Park
(posted 2019-04-03 01:28:03.61) Hello.
I'm a graduate school student in Korea University.
I'd like to purchase MFF101/M.
But I have two questions after I read the manual.
1. First question
There is the explanation about 'stability' in chapter 2.1.
It is written that 'When used with a mirror, please note that the unit is not recommended for applications requiring better than 100 µrad beam stability. '.
What does it mean?
Does it mean that the mirror would be oscillating in angular range of 100 µrad?
If then, what is the period of the oscillation?
2. Second question
There is information about 'repeatability' in Appendix B.
But there are two kinds of repeatability.
One is 'flip to flip repeatability' and the other is 'angular repeatability'.
What is the difference?
Thank you.
I'm looking forward to seeing your answer. rmiron
(posted 2019-04-11 09:36:17.0) Response from Radu at Thorlabs: Hello, Sooyoung. The beam stability specification refers to how much the reflected beam can drift by (with respect to the input beam). We can't specify a frequency for this drift for two reasons: we did not attempt to measure it and the test data we have on-hand suggests that it is a chaotic motion, as opposed to a harmonic oscillation.
The repeatability specifications refers to the angular variation of the plane in which the optical mount lies. If it is flipped from position 1 to position 2 and back to position 1, this plane can tilt by up to the figure we specify for flip-to-flip repeatability (the same holds true for position 2 to 1 and back). Over time, after many flips, the orientation of the mount's plane can change by up to the angular repetability specification, but not by more. eoldewur
(posted 2019-01-24 22:00:06.56) Hi, is it possible to use the motorized flipper in a continuous fashion, e.g. flipping every 1 or 2 seconds for many hours? What is the expected life-time of the device? Thanks! bhallewell
(posted 2019-01-25 06:28:11.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Whilst we don't have a formal test specification for lifetime for this device, we do have some nominal test data which may be of use to you. I will contact you directly to discuss this with you. qiyu4227
(posted 2019-01-24 09:01:52.837) Hi, I want use APT on Windows XP (32 bit) with Labview 8.2 (32 Bit). But no previous version of APT could be found. Is there anything compatible you could suggest or provide?
Thank you! bhallewell
(posted 2019-01-24 11:01:24.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: I will contact you directly to provide you with an older 32-bit version of APT for XP. Please bear in mind that this may have reduced functionality compared with the latest version available on the website. marcus.held
(posted 2018-10-01 10:41:22.973) Dear Thorlabs-Team,
I would like to ask how the SMA DIOs are connected.
I installed at the DIO1 a TTL signal and at DIO2 the remote handset. A switching either with the handset or an TTL signal connected to DIO2 is not possible.
It would be very beneficial if DIO2 can be used in addition to DIO1.
I appreciate any help and best regards,
Marcus Held rmiron
(posted 2018-10-02 06:54:54.0) Response from Radu at Thorlabs: Dear Marcus, you should be able to set both ports in the same operating mode (I assume this would be "Input: Toggle Position" in your case). With that being said, there might be situations in which the controller receives conflicting commands via the two ports, causing it to not operate as expected. I will contact you directly to check what is going wrong in your case. jskim84
(posted 2018-08-28 21:25:04.513) Hello, I am Jung-Su Kim in EOTECHNICS.
I hope to use MFF101 Flipper motor.
What is the operating current?
- Voltage : 15VDC
- Current : ?
please answer about my question.
best regards,
JSKIM rmiron
(posted 2018-09-03 04:47:35.0) Response from Radu at Thorlabs: Thank you for contacting us, Jung-Su. The maximum current that MFF101's power supply can draw is 2.4 A. gino.lopes
(posted 2018-08-07 11:26:27.853) Followed the LabVIEW guide for dotNET Kinesis drivers, works ok when controlling the MFF102/M Filter Flipper in the LabVIEW programming environment. When I compile the code I get an error displayed in the dotNet container on the front panel stating that the control cannot be loaded. Copied the KInesis folder to the same directory as the exe. Using LabVIEW 2014 and dotNet 4.0. rmiron
(posted 2018-08-08 05:51:04.0) Response from Radu at Thorlabs: Thank you for contacting us. I will reach out to you directly in order to troubleshoot this issue. user
(posted 2018-07-16 21:15:28.123) Our application, needs to query the serial # for the MFF102. But, when we issue MGMSG_HW_GET_INFO the serial # always returns 0. After chatting w/ tech support, it seems this issue will be addressed in the next firmware release. Can I get a date when this will be available ? bhallewell
(posted 2018-08-14 03:44:56.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: To clarify - the serial number is programmed onto Flash memory within the MFF PCB during our Production processes such that this can be retrieved through MGMSG_HW_REQ_INFO / MGMSG_HW_GET_INFO. We would be able to re-program your unit at our manufacturing site. Please contact your local Tech Support office so we can look into arranging this. fangchunyu
(posted 2018-07-05 15:34:10.647) I want to control MFF101 with LabVIEW and I used an ActiveX based APT plugin, my question is:
What method or command do I need to use to switch it between 2 positions? AManickavasagam
(posted 2018-07-16 06:06:55.0) Response from Arunthathi at Thorlabs: Thanks for your query. I have contacted you directly with a lab view VI we created for you, which could be used to switch between positions and further guidelines for the methods you could use. garcia32
(posted 2018-07-03 10:06:04.22) MFF101: We are having lost of problems with the APT software, hanging for unknown reasons at start-up.
WE would like to control it directly using TTL signals, but not enough information is provided.
How long has to be the pulse, is the operation pull-up or pull-down?
What is the required duration of the pulse?
Best, Victor rmiron
(posted 2018-07-04 12:53:09.0) Response from Radu at Thorlabs: I am sorry to hear about your issues with APT. Over the past couple of years, our efforts have mostly gone into improving Kinesis. Therefore, you might have a better user experience with this newer software.
Regarding the trigger ports, the operation is pull-up for both of them. They are in the HIGH state by default. I can't give you a precise figure for the minimum pulse duration, but the rate at which the state of the input port is polled is above 10 kHz. Therefore, every pulse that is above 100 microsecs long should be detected. adavid
(posted 2018-02-22 16:28:41.403) I am using an old version of APT (1.0.22) on Windows XP. I use it with various stages connected to TDC001 cubes without issue.
I have recently acquired an MFF101 motorized mount, connected by USB. The mount shows as "APT USB device" in the Windows hardware manager, so it looks like the driver installed without issue. However, the MFF101 doesn't appear in the APT User software.
* Do I understand correctly that the MFF101 should show up directly in APT User? Or do I need to configure it in APT Config first? if so, how? (it doesn't show up as a motor like other stages in the Apt Config pull-down menu)
* Or, is the NFF101 not showing because my APT version is too old? If so, where can I find a software version compatible with win XP which would recognize this stage?
Thanks! bhallewell
(posted 2018-03-01 05:38:41.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. This version of APTUser you’ve referenced is a part of the following APT Software Versions
2.11.0 (Released 17-09-10)
2.12.0 (Released 09-05-11)
2.13.0 (Released 23-01-12)
The MFF* series was released at the end of 2013. I have a more recent Windows XP compatible version of Software I will send you which includes support for the MFF* series mount. It is worth checking the Change Log for our APT Software for awareness of changes in functionality across software updates. An icon for this can be found next to the Download icon for APT.
https://www.thorlabs.com/software_pages/ViewSoftwarePage.cfm?Code=Motion_Control marc.kraemer
(posted 2017-10-16 09:30:34.943) When I operate the motorized filter flip by remote control or by the button on the housing it does not change between Position 1 and 2, it only compensates gravity. I want to use the filter flip without connection to a PC. What can I do to make the filter flip work properly? I hope you can help me. Tank you in advance! bwood
(posted 2017-10-18 06:28:09.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. I will be in direct contact to troubleshoot the issues with your device. nhuffman
(posted 2017-07-25 10:06:53.76) I am trying to interface with the MFF via two ways in MATLAB. First, using the APT, and second, with the .NET API.
I have successfully got the motor to flip with the APT using the MoveJog command, but after the filter flips, the program keeps running, and I receive a Hardware Response Timeout error.
I successfully downloaded the Kinesis folder, but when I try to load the .NET dlls into MATLAB, I get the following error:
"Message: Could not load file or assembly 'file:Thorlabs.MotionControl.DeviceManagerCLI.dil' or one of its dependencies. The system cannot find the file specified.
Source: mscorlib
HelpLink:
If I could have help with one or both of these issues (or any general suggestions with interfacing via MATLAB), I would be very thankful. bwood
(posted 2017-07-27 04:21:27.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback, I will be in contact with you directly to help troubleshoot your programming issues. user
(posted 2017-06-14 08:39:36.593) I was hoping to use the Motorized Filter Flip Mount on a python language. Is there some software, or help, to achieve this? Thanks bwood
(posted 2017-06-15 09:33:15.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. The software used to control the MFF series flipper mounts, Kinesis, has a full .NET API for integration with third party software. I would suggest taking a look at the ".NET API Help" file, which is installed with Kinesis, for advice on how to use this API. user
(posted 2017-05-10 12:36:00.41) The MFF201 outputs: there is only one output, the "in motion" indicator? Isn't there a position readout, a bit indicating which state it's flipped to? nbayconich
(posted 2017-06-12 03:34:18.0) This can be achieved by configuring the Dig Output as ‘At position’.
If the logic is not inverted then you will get a 'Logic High' output at the point in time when move has finished after the transition from CCW to CW position & 'Logic Low' if going in the opposite direction again at the point in time when move has finished after the transition from CW to CCW position.
If the logic is inverted then you will obtain an inverted response to the above. weihua.dong
(posted 2017-03-03 05:11:23.34) Hi
For MMF102/M, because it only include one LMR2/M.
If I need two, which part number need I need added ? I guess:
LMR2/M + Bracket m4, what is the part number for Bracket ?
best regards,
Weihua bwood
(posted 2017-03-06 10:38:00.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. The MFF102/M is provided additional bracket to mount another LMR mount, as you propose here. However, we are more than happy to provide the part number for an additional bracket, if you need one. We will be in direct contact with more details about this shortly. massey4
(posted 2017-02-28 17:15:01.957) 1) Do the MFF devices have internal sensors such that, upon power up and without being commanded to move, they can determine and accurately report (when asked) the position state (up/down/in-between) of the device?
2) Upon power up, does the device try to move to one of the end states if it is between states?
3) What is the worst case idle power dissipation for the MFF102 when it is supporting a maximum weight optic against gravity?
4) What is the idle power dissipation when it is not having to support an optic? bwood
(posted 2017-03-01 10:06:33.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your questions, let me address them in turn: 1) Yes, upon power up the MFF will detect the position of the flipper arms. 2) If the MFF is between positions when powered on, the device will stay in that position until ordered to move.3 and 4) The idle power consumption will be mostly independent of the load on the MFF, and so the current draw will be in the region of 75 mA to 120 mA. Therefore the idle power consumption would be a maximum of 1.8 W. user
(posted 2016-12-05 07:36:45.9) I was hoping to use this device on a table that also has some sensitive cavity locks running. I would like to know how much noise / vibration are created by the motion and whether there is a video available of the mount flipping between it's two states? Many thanks bwood
(posted 2016-12-06 11:00:23.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. The vibration transferred to our optical surface will strongly depend on how the MFF is mounted. I would suggest contacting your local tech support office, who will be able to discuss your application, and provide the video you have requested. cdhamley
(posted 2016-11-03 08:32:37.177) Would like enable logic on MMF101. I use this mount for a mirror to dump a beam for protection of our system since no shutter can handle the pulse energy. It would be useful if the firmware/software allowed one of the inputs to be configured as an interlock/enable. If logic LOW(HI) it will move to the set "safe" position. If logic HI(LOW) then the position is can be varied by software or the other input. Currently I can only accomplish this by using the logic level inputs to control the position and setting up external logic gates. This means I cannot control the position through the Kinesis software but must instead set up a logic output on other hardware. Hopefully this can be implemented with a firmware update to the device. bwood
(posted 2016-11-03 09:15:32.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for you comments about the MFF101. While I believe you have developed the best method possible with the current functionality, I can see the usefulness of an interlock/enable setting. I will pass on your comments to our engineers. mapope09
(posted 2015-05-19 10:08:28.09) I am using the MFF102 in an automated setup and want to control it using, a different program than the APT and Labview (I use Igor). When plugged into a USB hub my computer does not recognize it has a com port, I want to get your thoughts as to what my computer is likely viewing it as and what commands to use to control it remotely. Thanks, Michael bwood
(posted 2015-05-21 06:42:37.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. You will need to set up a virtual com port in windows, through device management, to operate the device through USB communications. I will contact you directly with a guide on how to do this, and information on the commands available to be used with the MFF102. potentiostat
(posted 2015-01-28 17:50:34.397) I am using the MFF101 in Labview well.
I wanted to install your 32bit APT software under windows7 64bit but I could not.
Our Labview application was built under 32bit windows system.
So I should install the 32bit APT software under Windows7 64bit in C:\Program Files (x86). jlow
(posted 2015-01-29 02:00:35.0) Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: You should download and install the "32-bit software for 64-bit Windows" version of the APT instead. You can find the download page at http://www.thorlabs.com/software_pages/ViewSoftwarePage.cfm?Code=APT mszheng
(posted 2014-09-03 20:18:24.287) I'm trying to control the MFF101 in LabVIEW following your guide found here: http://www.thorlabs.us/images/TabImages/GuideToLabVIEWandAPT.pdf, but when I got to the step to insert ActiveX object I couldn't find a control for this in the selection menu. The MFF flipper responds using the APT User software. What's the simplest way to toggle this thing in LabVIEW? bhallewell
(posted 2014-09-04 06:42:01.0) Response from Ben: Please firstly ensure that you have installed the correct version of APT Software depending upon your operating system. This can be retrieved from the following weblink.
http://www.thorlabs.de/software_pages/ViewSoftwarePage.cfm?Code=APT
If you are using the incorrect version then the APT ActiveX objects will not appear within the LabVIEW dropdown box. The ActiveX methods for the flipper are retrieved when you insert the MG17Motor object into your Front Panel.
To move the flipper, use the MoveJog method whereby the IJogDir parameter controls which direction the filter will flip. The LLGetStatusBits method can also be used to know your current position. paul-emile.aldebert
(posted 2014-05-12 09:52:36.16) I need to drive some MFF101/M motor with Labview. I used the guide to LV and APT, but the activeX window is too voluminous for my application, I'd like to know how to drive my motors with a toggle button on LV. I could program it but I don't know what messages are sent by APTuser on the serial port to switch the position of the MFF. Can you give me any informations about it ? Thank you for your answer msoulby
(posted 2014-05-12 10:44:47.0) Response from Mike at Thorlabs: It is possible to change the status of the filter flipper and query its state in Labview. To move the flipper you need to use the MoveJog motor method; with enumeration for IJogDir set to 1 = move clockwise or 2 = move counter clockwise. To query the status of the flipper you can use the method LLGetStausBits and use bits 0 and 1. One of these is for the UP state and one for the DOWN state. barry.coyle
(posted 2014-04-03 10:45:32.193) I need a software download for the MFF102 motorized flip mirror mount. I've lost my disk. Please advise quickly.
thanks
Barry Coyle cdaly
(posted 2014-04-03 11:07:51.0) Response from Chris at Thorlabs: The download for the APT software can be found here: http://www.thorlabs.com/software_pages/ViewSoftwarePage.cfm?Code=APT I will see if we can get a link added to this webpage to make it easier to find in the future. piel
(posted 2014-03-24 08:41:15.557) I got a couple of MFF102s and need to drive them from a Linux computer. The device is seen as a USB serial interface fine, but I can't find the right serial port settings and the correct commands to send. Could you let me know the right baudrate/parity/stopbit values for the serial port as well as the list of commands accepted?
That hopefully should be all I need to get the device working under Linux :-) msoulby
(posted 2014-03-24 11:54:03.0) Response from Mike at Thorlabs: The virtual comm port settings are as follows: Baud Rate = 115200 bits/sec; Flow Control = RTS/CTS; Bits per word = 8; Number of stop bits = 1; Parity = NONE. I have also contacted you directly on how you can determine the correct messages to send to and from the controller using our APT hardware logger. potentiostat
(posted 2014-03-20 08:46:38.6) I bought the MFF101. I want to use 'Move sequencer' in APT user software. Is it possible?
If yes, please explain how to input the parameter. bhallewell
(posted 2014-03-20 11:48:19.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: We greatly appreciate your feedback here. The 'Move Sequencer' utility in APTUser is not currently compatible with the MFF101. In light of your feedback however we will be updating our software to make this functionality available. I will contact you directly with more information. david.lee
(posted 2014-02-27 13:14:19.473) I have just taken delivery of a MFF101/M. When I set it up I noticed that it vibrates when you touch it and occasionally flips when touched. I suspect the device is sensitive to minor changes in voltage caused by touching it. When I wore latex gloves the vibration did not occur. I measured that the device floats at about -0.4 Volts. Has anyone at Thorlabs experienced this issue? bhallewell
(posted 2014-02-28 06:20:22.0) Response from Ben at Thorlabs: We appreciate you providing this feedback. I will contact you directly to troubleshoot this issue. mukphyzics
(posted 2014-01-10 04:06:57.62) Is the flip mirror mount MFF101/M and MFF101/M vacuum compatible. If not is there any vacuum compatible motorized flip mirror mount for 1" and 2" available with thorlabs. msoulby
(posted 2014-01-10 11:27:17.0) Response from Mike at Thorlabs: unfortunately the MFF101/M are not vacuum compatible. The product is made from anodised aluminium and contains a number of plastic/rubber parts that would outgas within a vacuum environment. cbrideau
(posted 2013-11-05 13:34:51.68) As asked by "plascottages" way back in 2011, is there a plan to integrate position information into the mount? A pin with logic high for 'mount is up' and low for 'mount is down' would be extremely useful. Alternatively, switch the control from latched to absolute, I.e. 0v at SMA connector lowers the mount while 5v raises it, rather than the edge-triggered toggle used now. msoulby
(posted 2013-11-21 11:49:28.0) Response from Mike at Thorlabs: Everything you have mentioned will be incorporated into the functionality of the new flipper. This is still currently in the final stages of testing and development but hope to have this updated version released in the near future. katonag
(posted 2013-05-13 12:52:23.063) Could you tell me the mechanical precision of the MFF01? the variability of the angle of the content? e.g. if I put a mirror in it, how much pointing precision I can expect? sharrell
(posted 2013-05-15 10:50:00.0) Response from Sean at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. Unfortunately, we have not measured the pointing accuracy of the MFF001. We are planning to release a replacement for the MFF001 soon, and based on your feedback we have added the pointing accuracy to the list of specifications we will measure for the new product. I will contact you directly to see if we can offer additional support for the current MFF001. tcohen
(posted 2012-07-10 14:37:00.0) Response from Tim at Thorlabs: This product uses a TTL logic 5V high pulse trigger via the SMA female. As one example, you could use a DAQ card controlled by your PC for this operation. suneil.rudra07
(posted 2012-07-05 07:18:14.0) Is there any way of triggering this unit from a PC?
Thanks bdada
(posted 2012-01-31 12:01:00.0) Response from Buki at Thorlabs:
Thank you for using our feedback forum. The MFF001 requires a 15V 1A power supply to operate correctly. Please contact TechSupport@thorlabs.com if you have any questions. werner.poeltinger
(posted 2012-01-18 08:39:04.0) Hello ! I need additional the total Power Consumption of the MFF01. 15 V + ?? Watts or Amps
Thanks in advance user
(posted 2011-12-05 13:51:32.0) A response from Tyler at Thorlabs: I tested one unit of the MFF001 to measure the beam deviation as the mounted mirror was flipped into and out of position. The measurement was made using a BC106-VIS beam profiler that measured the centroid of the reflected beam. The MFF001 should not be used in an application that requires better than 100 micro radian stability in the beam deviation from a beam reflected off a mirror mounted in the MFF001. user
(posted 2011-11-30 14:30:55.0) A response from Tyler at Thorlabs: The MFF001 could certaily be used to hold a mirror but I don't have a reflected beam deviation specification. I would be happy to get one into the technical support lab and make a measurement that could be used as a guidline for the devices performance as a mirror flip mount. sales.lwsolutions
(posted 2011-11-29 05:48:42.0) Would you recommend the device for flipping a mirror in and out of the beam. What is the beam pointing deviation from using it this way? bdada
(posted 2011-09-21 14:23:00.0) Response from Buki at Thorlabs:
We will contact you with an update on the design changes and provide you with more information on the power supply voltage. We will also update our website with this information.
Please contact TechSupport@thorlabs.com if you have further questions. plascottages
(posted 2011-09-02 10:47:17.0) Hi. Could you give me an update on when the design changes will be ready to integrate position information. Also could you tell me the tolerane on the power supply voltage - could it run from 12V?
Thanks jjurado
(posted 2011-05-19 15:08:00.0) Response from Javier at Thorlabs to richardson: Thank you very much for your feedback. We will be implementing some design changes to this mount in order to integrate position information. We will contact you directly to keep you updated on the progress of this project. richardson
(posted 2011-05-19 11:58:49.0) We have committed to using this product in a remotely controlled apparatus and are also concerned about the method of control. It certainly would be better to have remote control of the flipper state (e.g., 5v for up, 0v for down). Also, the output should tell you the current state, not that the stage is flipping. We have asked customer support if there is a known way to modify the existing units. jjurado
(posted 2011-05-11 09:11:00.0) Response from Javier at Thorlabs to last poster: Thank you very much for your feedback. We will modify the design of the MFF001 in order to integrate position information into the mount. Please contact us at techsupport@thorlabs.com for status updates. user
(posted 2011-05-10 06:04:47.0) It would be hugely more useful if this device switched to one state at 0v and another at 5v rather than just toggling. I understand it is trivial to make a little circuit to emulate this but without an end-sense for position it is not reliable.
Any chance youll offer a modification?
I suspect >95% of users would prefer this interface. tor
(posted 2010-11-22 13:39:58.0) A response from Tor at Thorlabs to Ed: Thank you for your interest in our Motorized Mirror Flipper. Our testing shows good repeatability up to the 500-hour mark. We havent tested it beyond that, so we dont have a spec on MTBF. The torque applied to the MFF001 must not exceed 35 N·mm. The MFF001 requires a 15-V, 1-A source -- the recommended after-market supply would be the TPS001: http://www.thorlabs.com/NewGroupPage9.cfm?ObjectGroup_ID=1710 ewetherell
(posted 2010-11-19 04:08:20.0) do you have an estimated life - number of cycles, MTBF, etc. for this product? would any periodic maintenance be needed to achieve, or exceed, this lifetime?
also, id like some more details on the power supply - current requirement and connector specification.
thanks -ed thorlabs
(posted 2010-10-01 09:46:35.0) A response from Oli at Thorlabs to t.godden: The MFF001 can indeed take a TTL trigger, any rising edge going above 4.8v will cause it to trigger. The easiest way to achieve this manually is to use the MFFH01 remotely or from the button on the top. t.godden
(posted 2010-10-01 03:58:06.0) We would like to remotely control the motorized mirror filter flippers MFF001 we recently purchased. I understand it uses a TTl voltage trigger 5V. Could you please recommend/advise me a source for such a trigger. Can we use a standard DC power supply 5V and switch it on and off rapidly and if, so what length of pulse do we need? Many thanks, apologies for my ignorance on TTl!! Thorlabs
(posted 2010-09-13 09:46:10.0) Response from Javier at Thorlabs to juergen.bosse: Thank you very much for your feedback. The current design of the MFF001 motorized flipper does not feature a sensor that allows retrieval of the actual position of the flipper. However, you can use the Trigger In/Out connections on the flipper for this purpose. I will discuss a more straightforward way of determining the flippers postion with our design engineers and keep you updated. juergen.bosse
(posted 2010-09-08 11:02:20.0) Hi there. Do I read the documentation correctly that there is no static indication of the 0deg or 90deg flip position? If a maintenance person, or, worse, the end user is entering our automated environment, we fear that they might "test" the flip mount and might leave it in an unexpected state. Since we have no way of knowing the actual state at boot time of our controller, this would require some extra work. Is there an optional sensor to tell us 0deg or 90deg? Thanks, Juergen. apalmentieri
(posted 2009-12-30 12:59:43.0) A response from Adam at Thorlabs to Tom: Tom, I am sorry, but we removed our feedback from 12/28 because it was incorrect. There are permanent magnets used in the motor and the sensor and there is an EMF induced when actuated. killian
(posted 2009-12-28 14:07:22.0) Are there any permanent magnets in the Thorlabs motorized flipper mount?
regards,
Tom Killian klee
(posted 2009-11-02 18:40:20.0) A response from Ken at Thorlabs to craig: I apologize for the trouble that this defective unit has caused you. We have shipped a replacement unit (which we checked and made sure was aligned correctly) to you today and you should receive it tomorrow. Our return department will email you with the RMA number. We are also checking with our manufacturing facility in the UK to see how we plan to resolve this issue. We will post more information here and also send you an email once we have more information. craig
(posted 2009-11-02 14:08:50.0) I am considering the MFF001 for an OEM application. I was very disappointed to discover that the dovetail mount on the mirror holder was mounted very far off perpendicular to the mount surfaces (several degrees, visibly misaligned.) It was so far off that I ran out of adjustment range to compensate for it with a 1" kinematic mirror mount. I wasted more than an hour before I realized your mount had been assembled misaligned. I tried to remove and readjust the dovetail, but it tends to rotate when you tighten the screw. (Im sure this was the problem is assembly on your end.) It looks like there is a hole for an alignment pin on the mirror mount, but no mating hole on the dovetail.
I think you should improve the design and/or assembly of the mirror mount for this unit so that the mirror is mounted within 0.1 degree of perpendicular.
I would like to hear about your plans to resolve this issue as it will determine whether we use your motorized flipper or a product from a competitor in our product.
Thanks,
Craig |
Additional Optomechanical Devices
Motorized Filter Flip Mounts