The Newport FPA (Fiber Positioner Actuator) is a precision instrument for accurate alignment of optical fibers across multiple axes. It delivers sub-micron sensitivity and independent axis locks to maintain stable optical coupling in laboratory and industrial photonic systems. The FPA accommodates bare fibers and connectorized fibers—standard and polarization-preserving—making it adaptable to diverse fiber-optic configurations.
Technical Specifications
• Axes of Travel: X, Y, Z; select models include θz (theta-z) rotation axis
• Travel Range:
– X, Y Axes: ±1.6 mm (±0.063 in.)
– Z Axis: ±3.6 mm (±0.14 in.) or ±3.2 mm
• Optical Axis Height: 25.4 mm
• Adjustment Screw Thread Pitch:
– XY Axes: 100 TPI
– Z Axis: 80 TPI
• Positional Sensitivity:
– X, Y Axes: 0.75 µm
– Z Axis: 1 µm
• Position Locks: Independent locks per axis secure the mechanism and maintain alignment with negligible cross-axis influence
• Base Mounting: Threaded 8-32 and M4 holes for optical post mounting; some models feature slotted base plate for direct optical table installation
– Key Features
• Three-axis (X, Y, Z) or four-axis (including θz) positioning capability
• Sub-micron resolution enables precision fiber coupling and alignment
• Decoupled axis locks prevent coupling loss during adjustment and subsequent operation
• Support for multiple fiber types: bare, connectorized standard, and polarization-preserving
• Fine-pitch adjustment screws (100 and 80 TPI) minimize drift and enable repeatable positioning
– Typical Applications
• Fiber-to-fiber coupling alignment
• Fiber-to-component coupling in photonic systems
• Laboratory optical test and measurement setups
• Industrial photonic alignment requiring sub-micron precision
– Compatibility & Integration
The FP-1 model integrates with FPH-S, FPH-S-2.5, FPH-J, and FPH-DJ chucks for bare fiber handling. Systems may incorporate the Newport F-91-C1-T Multimode Fiber Coupler Sub-Assembly and pair with the Newport 840-C optical power meter for fiber-coupled measurements.
