Prior Scientific introduces a new generation of devices with ProScan III [TM]

Prior Scientific, a specialist in automation components in microscopy, is setting new standards in control technology with ProScan III[TM]. ProScan III[TM] is the latest generation of the proven ProScan series for high-end automation of microscopes from leading manufacturers. In addition to a new, ergonomic design, Prior is primarily expanding the performance parameters of automated microscopes with the new stepper motor control. Compared to the previous model, ProScan III[TM] enables motorized scanning tables to be up to 250% faster in speed and up to 8 times faster in acceleration. The new control also allows extremely high-resolution, precise positioning of the sample.

The basic model is a compact XYZ control, optionally equipped with an encoder function, which can be upgraded to up to 15 axes by adding another module, e.g. for operating fast filter wheels, shutters and other accessories. This also includes four programmable TTL inputs and outputs and a real-time trigger function. The control can still be operated via a serial interface. A new feature is the real USB-HID interface for operation under both Windows and Mac PCs. An OEM version for customer-specific requirements with fully programmable performance parameters and an SDK for software integration is also available.

Interactive multifunction joystick

ProScan III[TM] is complemented by a new multifunction joystick. More than just XY and Z positioning, the device enables manual control of all of Prior's additional components, e.g. filter wheels and shutters for excitation and emission ports. Filter wheel positions can be assigned to corresponding fluorescent dyes using programmable buttons. The measurement function is also new. Distances in XY and Z can be read directly on the joystick display. For the operation of Prior scanning tables, the two Z adjustment wheels can optionally be used for ultra-fine XY positioning. This enables the finest control for high-resolution applications.