Products HomeLab Jacks
- Three Sizes: Heavy Duty (L490), Mini (L200), & Compact (LJ750)
- Rectangular Jacks Offer Rugged, Dual Pantograph Design
- Large Array of Mounting Holes on Each Platform
Application Idea
LJ750
1.00" Vertical Travel,
200 lbs Load Capacity
PM4
(One Included with Each Unit)
L200
1.04" Vertical Travel,
50 lbs Load Capacity
L490
2.26" Vertical Travel,
75 lbs Load Capacity
4"
7"
4"
3"
Ø2.64"
Please Wait
| Item # | Vertical Travel | Min Height | Max Height | Mounting Surface | Max Load Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L490(/M) | 2.26" (57.3 mm) |
2.15" (54.7 mm) |
4.41" (112 mm) |
7.00" x 4.00" (177.8 mm x 101.6 mm) |
75 lbs (34.0 kg) |
| L200(/M) | 1.04" (26.5 mm) |
0.84" (21.3 mm) |
1.88" (47.8 mm) |
3.00" x 4" (76.2 mm x 101.6 mm) |
50.0 lbs (22.7 kg) |
| LJ750(/M) | 1.00" (25.4 mm) |
1.99" (50.5 mm) |
2.99" (75.9 mm) |
Ø2.64" (67.0 mm) |
200 lbs (90.7 kg) |
Laboratory jacks provide a rugged, height adjustable platform ideal for mounting optomechanical sub-assemblies that, as a functional group, require height adjustment. In order to address a wide range of requirements, Thorlabs offers three different models, each with unique design characteristics suited for different ranges of end applications.
L490 Heavy Duty Lab Jack
The dual pantograph design of the L490 offers excellent rigidity and platform parallelism. The large 4.00" (101.6 mm) x 7.00" (177.8 mm) mounting platform supports up to 75 lbs (34 kg) with a smooth vertical adjustment range of 2.26" (57.3 mm) supported by stainless steel axles and connecting rods. Both the top and bottom plates offer a generous array of 1/4"-20 (M6) tapped holes and clearance slots for general mounting requirements.
L200 Mini Lab Jack
The L200 is designed with the same rigid dual pantograph design of our popular L490 above. The small design and array of 4-40 (M3) mounting holes makes it an ideal addition to our Mini-Series Construction products. The 3.00" (76.2 mm) x 4.00" (101.6 mm) mounting platform supports up to 50 lbs (22.7 kg) with a smooth vertical adjustment range of 1.04" (26.5 mm). Both top and bottom plates offer a wide range of mounting holes including 4-40 (M3), 8-32 (M4), and 1/4"-20 (M6) for general mounting requirements (see Support Drawing for more details).
LJ750 Compact Lab Jack
The LJ750 offers 1.00" (25.4 mm) of precision vertical adjustment in a compact, easy-to-operate design. The large actuator ring, graduated in 10 μm intervals, offers high sensitivity even when actuating its maximum load of 200 lbs (90.7 kg). The top platform offers an additional functionality with lockable, 360º continuously rotation.
Click to Enlarge
Current L200 Packaging
Smart Pack
- Reduce Weight of Packaging
- Increase Usage of Recyclable Materials
- Improve Packing Integrity
- Decrease Shipping Costs
Thorlabs' Smart Pack Initiative is aimed at minimizing waste while providing adequate protection for our products. By eliminating any unnecessary packaging, implementing design changes, and utilizing eco-friendly materials, this initiative seeks to reduce the environmental impact of our
product packaging.
The updated L200(/M) packaging consists of recycled cardboard and weighs 13% less than the original packaging. This weight change results in a
more than 6.71 kg reduction in travel-based CO2 emissions per year, based on typical product sales.*
The other products on this page have also transitioned to recycled paper packaging. The new L490(/M) packaging results in a 41% reduction in
weight and more than 107.46 kg reduction in travel-based CO2 emissions per year, while the updated LJ750(/M) packaging results in a 28%
reduction in weight and more than 5.15 kg reduction in CO2 emissions per year.*
As we move through our product line, we will indicate re-engineered, eco-friendly packaging with our Smart Pack logo, which can be seen in the
image to the right.
*This product transitioned to smart packaging in 2013. Travel-based emissions reduction calculations are estimated based on the total weight reduction of packaging materials used for all of that year's product sales, traveling 1,000 miles on an airplane, to provide general understanding of
the impact of packaging material reduction. Calculations were made using the EPA’s shipping emissions values for different modes of transport.
| Posted Comments: | |
user
(posted 2020-10-19 03:55:41.303) What is the accuracy and repeatability of height adjustment for LJ750/M? I know that graduation is each 10um, but is it possible to move ring eg. half of graduation? YLohia
(posted 2020-10-19 03:12:48.0) The pre-loaded design will allow for minimal backlash, making the repeatability and accuracy dependent on the user's dexterity to visually resolve the space between the engraved graduations. Typical users can indeed rotate the adjustment ring/knob by half graduations, so a 5 µm accuracy would likely be reasonable. Jason Yobby
(posted 2020-04-15 13:01:25.497) What is the fully open and fully closed heights of the L490? These dimensions are needed for bottom mounting hardware I am developing. YLohia
(posted 2020-04-15 02:39:48.0) Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The maximum and minimum heights for the L490 are given in the engineering drawing : https://www.thorlabs.com/_sd.cfm?fileName=1708-E0W.pdf&partNumber=L490. The top plate is 112.0 mm when fully extended and 54.7 mm when completely contracted. Decibel Elpa
(posted 2020-03-25 06:37:11.99) Where can I download the software for this motorized lab jack? I downloaded the software for the model that replaced this, but I am experiencing some problems. We had it installed previously but now we don't have the software for L490MZ/M. S/N 46844913 DJayasuriya
(posted 2020-03-26 07:51:46.0) Response from Dinuka at Thorlabs: Thanks for reaching out to us. I will reach out directly to get your issue resolved. user
(posted 2019-12-17 06:44:48.927) The drawing for LJ750/M shows the top plate as having metric tapped holes with Imperial spacings - is that correct?
e.g M6 holes with 1 inch spacing. YLohia
(posted 2019-12-17 11:38:25.0) Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. Yes, the LJ750/M has metric holes that have imperial spacings. user
(posted 2019-11-14 10:28:36.273) Hello,
what is the maximum load if you use the L200 upside down ? That is, if the load pulls the two plates apart, instead of pushing them together. llamb
(posted 2019-11-18 02:04:59.0) Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. We have not formally tested the L200 for the inverted orientation, however, we would not expect failure of the unit when using the same load capacity. The key issues in this orientation would be repeatability and stability. When mounted upright on a table, the leadscrew and springs provide a mechanical advantage for a load compressing the two plates together. I have reached out to you directly to discuss your application and this lab jack further. user
(posted 2019-05-08 09:11:49.407) Hi!
You claim the Ø2.64" Compact Lab Jack(LJ750/M) has a "high stability" - what exactly do you mean with that? The load capacity or positional stability?
Do you have any numbers concerning the mechanical creep/long term positional stability of this stage?
I'm interested in moderate loads of about 5-10kg, over several hours/days. We are looking for a vertical stage that can keep it's position in the (sub)micron range. Other suggestions are welcome, too! llamb
(posted 2019-05-10 05:30:58.0) Thank you for your feedback. The high stability refers to being able to support a high load while maintaining its 10 µm resolution from the engraved dial. We have not tested the long-term positional stability of this stage, as it will also depend on thermal conditions and how the load is mounted. I have reached out to you directly to discuss your application further. xrb09126
(posted 2017-06-29 11:30:29.127) For the L200/M labjack we are having problems with what it seems to be the adjuster rod where iis struggling to move the jack at all? Just wondering if you can help tfrisch
(posted 2017-07-01 11:45:32.0) Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. I will reach out to you directly to troubleshoot your labjack. dw
(posted 2017-03-22 16:59:11.467) After some use, these lab jacks tend to get jammed. It would be very helpful to have some info as to how to take apart the lab jack and fix this. jlow
(posted 2017-03-29 04:41:06.0) Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: Typically the common cause for the stage getting jammed is dirt contamination on the lead screw. If you move the stage until it is at the end of the upright position, you can access the leadscrew somewhat to clean it with solvents (e.g. isopropyl alcohol). Once the lead screw is clean, you can then regrease it. The grease we use on the lead screw is Apiezon M. Afterwards, run the lead screw back and forth fully a few times. andrew
(posted 2013-07-23 06:32:01.503) We own a L490/M. Can we add the motorized stage to it?
L490MZ/M Motorized Lab Jack, 50.8 mm Travel, M6 Taps
http://www.thorlabs.hk/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup_id=4018 cdaly
(posted 2013-07-25 10:34:00.0) Response from Chris at Thorlabs: Thank you for using our feedback tool. I'm afraid I am not sure if you are asking these can be mounted together or if the manual stage can be turned into a motorized one, so I will answer both. No, unfortunately, the L490(/M) cannot be motorized by adding the controller afterwards. Yes, you would be able to mount one on top of the other. In a perpendicular or offset configuration, you can just use M6 (1/4-20) cap screws, but if you are mounting them together flush to one another, you would need also to use the corresponding nuts in order to fasten them. rlang
(posted 2012-11-30 00:00:00.0) The L490/M includes 19 M6 mounting holes manufactured with 25 mm spacing. The tapped holes each include a positional tolerance that would allow the spacing to range between 24.87 mm to 25.13 mm. Our apologies, but our supporting documentation is currently inaccurate and will be updated shortly. Thank you for pointing out this inconsistency, and please note that the L490/M will suit your application. oleg.mavr
(posted 2012-11-28 11:17:17.123) This product would be very useful to our company if it is really "METRIC" as it is mentioned in short description of L490/M:
"The top and bottom plates each have an array of nineteen 1/4"-20 (M6) tapped mounting holes on 1" (25 mm) centers."
However one can see 25.4 mm spacing between tapped mounting holes. Please clarify is it possible to order L490/M with 25.0 mm spacing? tcohen
(posted 2012-05-14 09:34:00.0) Response from Tim at Thorlabs: Thank you for contacting us. The L490 uses anodized aluminum and stainless steel almost exclusively. There are, however, a few steel components which may not be stainless. I am checking into this and will contact you with more details. johannes.sparrer
(posted 2012-05-10 18:56:07.0) Is the L490 completely made of stainless materials? I would like to use it in an environment with a high humidity. eliseo
(posted 2010-06-01 00:04:15.0) Do you have any experience in making the L200 UHV compatible? Would it be feasible to scrub out the lithium grease and replace with vacuum grease? jjurado
(posted 2010-06-01 21:41:58.0) Response from Javier at Thorlabs to eliseo: we currently do not offer a vacuum-compatible version of the L200 labjack. There is not only grease, but other components that would require a redesign of the assembly in order to make the L200 vacuum compatibe (~10^-6 Torr). Alternatively, I would suggest looking at our LNR series stainless steel stages. We could customize its mounting accesories for use in vacuum environments. I will contact you with more details. apalmentieri
(posted 2010-01-27 10:00:00.0) A response from Adam at Thorlabs to rick: This is a very interesting application and we would like some more information. I will email you directly to get this information. With respect to the grease, the L490 uses Apiezon grease while the L200 uses white lithium for moving parts and a combination of Apiezon grease with NYE PG-44A grease. vvv
(posted 2010-01-26 16:47:55.0) I have an application for the L490 and or L200. The lab jacks would be used in a radioactive hot cell. That only causes problems if some kind of solid bearing material is used. Most lubricants are Ok, if one is used; I need to run it through our system.Your help will be appreciated.
rick apalmentieri
(posted 2010-01-14 14:18:45.0) A response from Adam at Thorlabs, Inc to Dan: I am sorry about the issue with our step files. We will update the web and send you out an accurate step file. flickingerd
(posted 2010-01-14 11:44:53.0) The STEP file thats available for L200 is flawed in a subtle but serious way. The hole spacings on the top and bottom plates are incorrect in one dimension. The holes, as modeled, are on a 1" x 25mm grid! tyler
(posted 2008-03-06 09:33:44.0) Response from Tyler at Thorlabs to ghegenbart: Thank you for bringing the missing drawings to our attention. They are now available. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused you. ghegenbart
(posted 2007-11-16 06:39:34.0) Drawings for LJ750/M are missing. |
Zoom
- Convenient, Removable Actuator Knob Included
- 2.26" (57.3 mm) Height Adjustment from 2.15" (54.7 mm) to 4.41" (112 m)
- 7.00" (177.8 mm) x 4.00" (101.6 mm) Mounting Surface
- 75 lbs (34.0 kg) Vertical Load Capacity
- 1/4"-20 (M6) Mounting Holes, 19 Places
- Top- and Bottom-Located Mounting Slots
The L490(/M) Lab Jack utilizes a dual-pantograph design which offers excellent rigidity. The adjustment mechanism uses a lead screw to close the angle between the opposing pairs of supporting struts. Stainless steel axles and connecting rods allow loads of up to 75 lbs (34 kg) to be smoothly elevated over the full range of the L490. The top and bottom plates each have an array of nineteen 1/4"-20 (M6) tapped mounting holes on 1" (25 mm) centers. Mounting slots are provided on the top and bottom plates.
Zoom
Click to Enlarge
Displacement Per Turn for L200 Mini Lab Jack
Click for Details
Mounting Options
- Compatible with Mini-Series Breadboards and Components
- 1.04" (26.5 mm) Height Adjustment from 0.84" (21.3 mm) to 1.88" (47.8 mm)
- 3.00" (76.2 mm) x 4.00" (101.6 mm) Mounting Surface
- 50 lbs (22.7 kg) Vertical Load Capacity
- Mounting Holes:
- L200: 1/4"-20 (7 Places), 8-32 (4 Places), and 4-40 (18 Places)
- L200/M: M6 (7 Places), M4 (4 Places), and M3 (18 Places)
- Steel Leadscrew with 1/8" Hex Socket Height Adjuster (1/8" Hex Wrench Included)
The L200(/M) Lab Jack offers the same highly rigid dual-pantograph design as the L490 but in a smaller package size. The adjustment mechanism provides smooth vertical motion while supporting vertical loads of up to 50 lbs. The top and bottom plates each offer a generous supply of tapped holes and counterbores, adding to mounting flexibility. A steel leadscrew with 1/8" hex socket (hex key included) is accessible from the rear of the unit actuates height adjustment.
Zoom- High Stability Lab Jack
- 1.00" (25.4 mm) Vertical Adjustment from 1.99" (50.5 mm) to 2.99" (75.9 mm)
- Ø2.64" (67.0 mm) Mounting Surface
- 200 lbs (90.7 kg) Static and Active Load Capacity
- Mounting Holes:
- LJ750: 1/4"-20 (4 Places), 8-32 (5 Places), and 6-32 (4 Places)
- LJ750/M: M6 (4 Places) and M4 (9 Places)
- Parallel to Within ±0.005" Over Entire Range
The LJ750(/M) Lab Jack is a compact vertical translation platform, 2" tall when fully collapsed, and 3" tall when fully extended. The large actuator knob is graduated in 10 µm increments allowing calibrated vertical height changes. 1/4"-20 (M6), 8-32 (M4), and 6-32 (M4) mounting holes are provided on the top platform. Additionally, the top platform can be rotated 360° and locked in place. A clamping arm (PM4, shown in the picture to the left) is supplied with the jack.
Zoom
Click for Details
Mechanical Drawings
- Provide Clamping Force for Our Platform Mounts
- Threaded Hole on Top and Threaded Stud on Bottom of Post
- 6-32 Threads on PM3 and PM4
- 8-32 Threads on PM5
- M4 x 0.7 Threads on All Metric Versions
- Maximum Optic Heights from 0.97" to 1.65" (24.6 mm to 41.8 mm)
- Extension Posts Available to Increase Max Optic Height
- PM3SP(/M) with PM3(/M): Hold Optics up to 2.21" (56.1 mm) Tall
- PM4SP(/M) with PM4(/M): Hold Optics up to 3.61" (91.7 mm) Tall
Click to Enlarge
Clamping Arm Extension Posts with Metric Indicator Groove
Thorlabs' Clamping Arms provide clamping force to secure optics to our kinematic platform mounts, stages, and V-clamps. The PM3(/M) accommodates optics up to 0.97" tall and features a 0.69" center-to-center distance between the post and the nylon-tipped setscrew that holds the optic. The PM4(/M) accommodates optics up to 1.61" and features a 1.16" center-to-center distance between the post and the nylon-tipped setscrew. The maximum optic height of the PM3(/M) or PM4(/M) Clamping Arms can be extended using our PM3SP(/M) or PM4SP(/M) Extension Posts, respectively. These extension posts are identical to the posts included in each complete clamping arm. Each clamping arm features 6-32 (M4 x 0.7) threads. The PM3 and PM4 can be mounted in 8-32 tapped holes by using the AS6E8E thread adapter, which features internal 6-32 threads and external 8-32 threads. This thread adapter has an outer diameter of 0.24", which is the same as the PM4SP extension post and the post included with the PM4 clamping arm. This allows the clamping arm to be adjusted across the seam between either post and the adapter. The smaller diameters of the included post for the PM3 clamping arm and the PM3SP extension post cause the thread adapter to act as a stop for the clamping arm.
The PM5(/M) clamping arm is made entirely from heat-treated stainless steel, which helps maintain stability in fluctuating temperatures and provides vacuum compatibility. This clamping arm is recommended for use with the POLARIS-K1M4(/M), but it can be used with any platform mount or stage that has one or more 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) tapped holes. The PM5(/M) can hold optics up to 1.65" tall, and the distance from the post center to the contact point that holds the optic is 0.90".
Each clamping arm is attached to its post using a flexure mechanism that locks with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key. The setscrew on top of the clamping arm also accepts a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key in order to clamp down on the optic. The post includes a through hole which can be leveraged for added torque when tightening down the post. Please see the diagram above for additional information.
Lab Jacks