The CXI sample chambers are home to a large number of EPICS controllable motorized stages, usually driven by stepper or piezo type actuators. Motors and other in-vacuum electronics within the sample chambers are interfaced to external electronics in atmosphere using flange panels with straight-through M-M DB9 feedthrough connectors. A typical flange at CXI has its connectors arranged in two columns, with one column designated for motor phase/power and the other for motor encoder power and readback. In-vacuum stages at CXI are custom wired to connect to the vacuum chamber flanges.
Don't Forget:
Always wear clean gloves and a lab coat when working with components in CXI's vacuum chambers.
(Picture of an SC1 or SC3 motor and its cables to flange)
About the Labels...
Many flanges and panels in CXI have helpful labels to guide users and staff. Beamline staff always try to exercise good practice and label new flange connections with relevant information such as EPICS PVs or motor/signal names. However, as components often move or are replaced for experiments, the upkeep of these labels can be overlooked causing confusion or mistakes. Before connecting anything to a chamber flange, consider its labels and any consequences that may result from connecting to something other than what its label indicates. If ever in doubt, refer to an HXR or PCDS staff member.
The most common stage types in CXI are the Micronix VT-50 and VT-21, which are "dumb" stepper motors. For stages and components that require smaller or finer actuators, Micronix PP-30 piezo stages are used. Both actuator types have relative optical encoders and are generally operated in a closed loop position control scheme. Other makes and types of motors appear on the CXI beamline but generally follow similar principles.
(Picture of VT-50) (Picture of PP30)