THORLABS PCS-6000 Series

Randy KingAug 5, 2025

Why is there excess motion of the pipette tip during manual adjustment on my THORLABS PCS-6000?

R
Rachael WaltersAug 6, 2025
If you notice excess motion of the pipette tip during manual adjustment of your THORLABS Controller, it's often due to instability from loose mechanical connections or dirt between surfaces. Ensure all screws are tight, including those on rotary and pivot stages, headstage mount, linear stages, and the mounting system itself. Also, make sure mating surfaces are clean and free of any debris or burrs. Check for vibration issues from wires and ensure the mounting system is stable.

Summary

Chapter 1 Warning Symbols

Safety Symbols Defined

Explains safety symbols used in the manual and on the product for user guidance and hazard identification.

Chapter 2 Introduction

Overview of the PCS-6000

Introduces the PCS-6000 series micromanipulator, its capabilities, and applications in patch clamp recording.

Major Components of the PCS-6000

Details the primary components of the PCS-6000 system, including the micromanipulator assembly and control units.

Chapter 3 Description

Mechanisms of Motion

Explains how coarse and fine motion are achieved using stepping motors and piezo-flexure assemblies.

PCS-6000 Configurations

Describes different PCS-6000 models and their axes of motion, including right/left handed options.

Chapter 4 Orientation

Control Unit Layout

Describes the front panel of the control unit, including indicators and switches for operation.

Motor Control Board Functions

Explains the motor control board, receptacles, indicator lights, and motor stall conditions.

Piezo Control Board

Details the piezo control board, its receptacles, and voltage application for fine positioning.

Rear Panel Connections

Identifies ports and connectors on the rear panel of the control unit for various connections.

Axis Control Unit (ACU)

Describes the ACU's function in piezo positioning and its connection and resolution.

Joystick Operation

Explains the function and controls of the joystick for motor positioning and speed selection.

Chapter 5 Installation

Unit Unpacking and Clip Removal

Instructions for safely unpacking the unit and removing shipping clips to prevent damage.

Mounting the Manipulator

Steps for securely mounting the manipulator to a surface using the rotation plate adapter.

Connecting Cables and Grounding

Guidance on properly connecting cables to the control unit and securing them to prevent disruption.

Mounting Headstage and Pipette

Details on attaching the headstage and pipette adapter plate to the manipulator.

Chapter 6 Operation

Powering Up and Motor Motion Check

Procedure for powering on the unit and verifying motor function for each axis.

Piezo Motion Check

Instructions for attaching the headstage and checking piezo fine motion control.

Adjusting Approach Axis Angle

Steps for setting the angle of the approach axis for optimal positioning.

Setting Adjustable Stops

Procedure for setting the adjustable stop mechanisms on the rotary pivot stages.

Operational Hints and Tips

Provides practical advice for joystick and piezo control, single stepping, and drift issues.

Chapter 7 Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule Overview

Outlines routine maintenance tasks and their recommended intervals for the PCS-6000 system.

Lubricating Motor Shafts

Step-by-step guide for lubricating motor shafts to ensure smooth operation.

Replacing Fuses

Instructions for safely replacing the main power line fuse in the control unit.

Adjusting ACU Knob Friction

Describes how to adjust the friction of the control knobs on the Axis Control Unit.

Adjusting Manual Knob Friction and Play

Details on using a spanner wrench to adjust friction and lateral stability of manual adjustment knobs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Provides solutions for common problems like excess motion, no fine motion, and no coarse motion.

Chapter 8 Specifications

Environmental and Product Specifications

Lists operating conditions, transport/storage conditions, and product safety standards compliance.

Chapter 9 Regulatory

WEEE Directive and Waste Handling

Explains Thorlabs' WEEE compliance and user responsibility for waste treatment.

Ecological Background

Discusses the environmental impact of WEEE and the goals of RoHS and WEEE directives.

Chapter 10 Warranty

Warranty Terms and Conditions

Details the two-year warranty period, repair/replacement policy, and warranty exclusions.