XY Table

This Python repository is for controlling an experiment using an XY table powered by two MDrive23 stepper motors, and an HP8510C vector network analyzer. All control is done with Ubuntu 10.04. I use the linux-gpib module found on sourceforge and pySerial for the motor control, also found on sourceforge.com

The kernel version appears to make a difference. Kernel 2.6.xx works, but upgrading to 3.x caused a failure.

I use a National Instruments GPIB PCI interface card.

There's a thread on ubuntuforums.org that I started when getting this setup for the first time and the install instructions for the linux-gpib module are there.

Moving Table Hardware

The moving table was produced in house at SFSU by Peter Verdone.

XY Table without ceiling plane. XY Table with ceiling plane installed.

Each stepper motor has two end of travel switches to prevent damage to the rig and to programatically define the available travel for the crystal carrier.

End of travel sensors. HP8510C Vector Network Analyzer. Old unit had some boards repaired. Early crystal designed with dielectric rods and spacers.

Cheers, dpc