6-Axis Kinematic Mounts

High Precision, Locking 6-Axis Adjustment
Mount Ø1/2", Ø1", or Ø2" Optics or
SM-Threaded Components

K6XS

Ø1" Optic Mount

6 Degrees of Freedom

K6A1

Prism Platform
for K6XS Mount

Application Idea

K6XS Mount with K6A1
Prism Mount and PS910
Right Angle Prism

K6X05

Ø1/2" Optic
Mount

Please Wait

Overview
Smart Pack
Feedback
Rotation Mounts and Stages

Features

XYZ Translation with Pitch/Yaw Adjustment and Rotation
SM05- (0.535"-40), SM1- (1.035"-40), or SM2- (2.035"-40) Threaded Versions
Prism Mounting Attachment Available for SM1 Mount

These kinematic mounts feature translation along three axes and rotation about three axes. Each adjuster includes a locking screw for stability. The mounting cell has an SM05-, SM1-, or SM2-threaded bore for mounting optics or SM-threaded components. The K6XS Ø1" mount also features four 4-40-tapped holes on the rotation dial for attaching the K6A1(/M) prism mount (available separately below). The prism mount attachment includes a 0.5" x 1.68" platform and a PM3(/M) clamping arm, as well as the screws and hex key needed to secure it to the K6XS mount. The mounts are fabricated from black anodized aluminum.

Click to Enlarge
K6XS Packaging

Smart Pack Goals

Reduce Weight of Packaging
Increase Usage of Recyclable Materials
Improve Packing Integrity
Decrease Shipping Costs

Thorlabs' Smart Pack Initiative is aimed at minimizing waste while providing adequate protection for our products. By eliminating any unnecessary packaging, implementing design changes, and utilizing eco-friendly materials, this initiative seeks to reduce the environmental impact of our product packaging.

The updated K6XS packaging primarily consists of recycled paper and cardboard and weighs 64% less than the original packaging. This weight change results in a 75% reduction in CO₂ emissions per year, based on typical product sales.

As we move through our product line, we will indicate re-engineered, eco-friendly packaging with our Smart Pack logo, which can be seen above.

Posted Comments:

Steven yao (posted 2024-10-11 01:57:11.043)

Hello, I would like to inquire about a product for experimentation, model K6XS. On the model, the three adjustment screws for pitch and Z-axis are not equipped with locking screws. I have two questions here. Question one: How do I lock the three adjustment screws mentioned above? Question 2: Can you provide stability data or proof for this product? Thank you, have a nice day.

jdelia (posted 2024-10-11 04:51:00.0)

Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The K6XS has a locking screw located near each one of its adjusters. While I have reached out to you directly via email to share a screenshot with these screws called out, you can also find them called out in the CAD drawing: https://www.thorlabschina.cn/_sd.cfm?fileName=TTN009762-E0W.pdf&partNumber=K6XS. We unfortunately have not taken any long-term stability data for these mounts.

Leonardo Scarabelli (posted 2024-09-20 16:08:23.58)

Could I mount a 2inch OAP on a K6X2? I guess I don't understand the limitation on the optic's thickness indicated in the table (Max Optic Thickness). Thank you!

EGies (posted 2024-09-27 02:18:29.0)

Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. You would not be able to directly mount a 2" OAP in a K6X2. The K6X2 secures an optic by its edges between a retaining lip and a threaded retaining ring. The maximum thickness spec refers to the maximum edge thickness of the optic that can physically fit between the lip and the retaining ring. In order to mount one of our 2" OAP mirrors into the K6X2, you would need to use a mounting adapter like the SM2MP, which has external SM2 threads that fit in the K6X2's internal SM2 threads: https://www.thorlabs.com/thorproduct.cfm?partnumber=SM2MP.

Giulia Zanini (posted 2024-07-09 10:51:59.207)

Which differential adjusters can be used to replace the current tip/tilt adjusters of the K6XS? Thank you!

jdelia (posted 2024-07-09 02:44:24.0)

Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. We unfortunately do not offer any differential adjusters compatible with the K6XS mount at this time. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Francois Laforge (posted 2022-11-29 14:46:26.83)

Even with the lock screw completely unlocked, the rotation force necessary to manually rotate the mount is too strong. I can I loosen the mount so that it is easier to rotate?

jdelia (posted 2022-12-27 08:50:53.0)

Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. This mount should not be very difficult to rotate. I have reached out to you directly in an attempt to troubleshoot and resolve your issue.

Sean Kung (posted 2021-10-14 01:46:04.13)

Hi, I work in the University of British Columbia. Is this item (K6X05) rough vacuum compatible (~10^-3 Torr)? We are looking for a compact (3x3x3 inches) 6-axis mount as our sample stage in a FTIR spectrometer. Thanks!

azandani (posted 2021-10-15 04:41:10.0)

Hello Sean, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. Unfortunately, this item is not vacuum compatible (~10^-3 Torr). We do not recommend placing anodized parts into a vacuum chamber as the surface of an anodized component is porous and can become contaminated. That being said, I will reach out to you directly to discuss the feasibility of a custom option.

Zheng Xiang (posted 2020-10-02 10:17:47.62)

为什么K6XS的安装孔没有螺纹?我用对应的8-32(M4)的TRA75/M不适配。急需答复!谢谢!

YLohia (posted 2020-10-02 09:48:59.0)

The K6XS is specified to have two #8 (M4) counterbored holes, not threaded holes, for mounting. You will have to use capscrews (not setscrews) to mount this to a post. https://www.thorlabs.com/_sd.cfm?fileName=TTN009762-E0W.pdf&partNumber=K6XS

mdelgrange (posted 2019-02-04 09:05:59.12)

Hi, Do you have a solution for having a K6XS compatible with a 60mm cage system ? Thank you.

llamb (posted 2019-02-05 08:17:11.0)

Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. The K6XS currently does not have enough space to accommodate holes for a 60 mm cage system. I have reached out to you directly to discuss your application and possible configurations.

akuznetsov (posted 2018-07-02 22:16:49.88)

Who designed the 8/32 mounting points to be spaced apart at 0.395" and 0.55"? Completely doesn't match imperial breadboard hole patterns for 2 screw attachment. Yes the corner hole can't be too far from the center line because of the corner, but the outer edge hole could have at least been 1" away from the corner hole. Instead of 0.55" center to edge, it should have been 0.605" that way corner to edge holes would provide 1" mounting space, and while that would make the center line off axis, frankly I con't care and those who do can use a translation stage or just use 1 screw in the first place.

llamb (posted 2018-07-09 09:56:11.0)

Thank you for your feedback. I have added this suggestion to our internal product forum for further revision. The original design was limited by space constraints on the back plate of the mount between the springs and adjuster screw. For two screw attachment, you can still mount two posts to the K6XS and place them in our more versatile Universal Post Holders, so the hole spacing will not limit you for breadboard mounting. I will reach out to you directly in case you are interested in a custom product.

jchapmn2 (posted 2015-07-13 11:07:49.257)

Hello, in your older model, "K6X", you had four holes tapped on the back side for 30mm cage system. It was not very useful because the back plate was in the way of getting the cage component really close to the front plate and if you wanted them close you had to screw it into the back side of the front plate where there is no x/y translation. I STRONGLY suggest putting tapped holes on the front side for a 30mm cage system so that you can bring cage compenents really close to the front where something could be mounted and have x/y translation. We like to use the cage rods on the back side of the old ones to do fiber coupling with a mounted asphere and a connectorized fiber mounted in one of your terminating plates. Your collimation packages are great but sometimes you need other focal lengths and greater positioning control and if you can have the fiber and lens on a cage mount together it greatly increases stability. And having that mounted on a K6XS allows you to tilt the whole system together which is necessary for high coupling efficiency.

besembeson (posted 2015-09-23 11:17:21.0)

Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: In the current design, one way to achieve this is to use a cage plate like the CP02 with a coupler such as SM1T2 or SM1T10. It seems it makes sense to include the 30mm cage holes to the front mounting surface but this will involve a redesign at this time.

Klaus.Bergner (posted 2014-06-19 02:35:13.12)

Hello Thorlabs - team, would it be possible to add 3 additional holes in this mount to use it with a cage system? Kind regards from Jena, Germany, Klaus Bergner

jlow (posted 2014-08-01 04:41:25.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: The K6XS is not suitable for cage system. However, you should be able to achieve similar functionality using a combination of other kinematic and rotation mounts. We will contact you to get more details on your application and suggest appropriate items.

andreas.olk (posted 2014-04-22 12:17:27.203)

Dear Sir or Madam, is there a way to mount a BB2-E03 Ø2" Broadband Dielectric Mirror on the K6XS? Kind regards, Andreas Olk ------------------------------------------------- Andreas Olk Optische Systeme Optical Systems Fraunhofer-Institut für Lasertechnik ILT Steinbachstr. 15, 52074 Aachen, Germany Tel +49 241 8906-8082 Fax +49 241 8906-121 andreas.olk@ilt.fraunhofer.de http://www.ilt.fraunhofer.de ------------------------------------------------- Besuchen Sie uns/Visit us: AKL'14 - International Laser Technology Congress 07.-09. Mai 2014, Aachen Eurogress Conference Center www.lasercongress.org

jlow (posted 2014-04-22 09:08:17.0)

Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: You can do this using two adapters: SM1A2 and SM2P2. You can find them at the following links. SM1A2: http://www.thorlabs.com/thorproduct.cfm?partnumber=SM1A2 SM2P2: http://www.thorlabs.com/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup_id=748&pn=SM2P2

jlow (posted 2012-08-02 14:53:00.0)

Response from Thorlabs: There should always be some clearance between the mount and the circular bore. I will get in contact with you directly regarding sending your K6X back to us to be inspected/repaired.

christopher.long (posted 2012-07-27 08:08:28.0)

It seems like the xy translation is limited because of the circular opening surrounding the inner mount. I often bump into edges when trying to align a fiber. Any thoughts on changing to a square shape so that we can reach the corners? Thanks!

tcohen (posted 2012-04-02 17:29:00.0)

Update from Tim at Thorlabs: There is a possibility of rotation to occur when the X and Y axis is adjusted. We are testing the current K6X to determine where the rotation is coming from and how to redesign to correct for this. Thank you for your feedback to help us create a better product for future users!

bdada (posted 2012-03-29 16:29:00.0)

Response from Buki at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback on the K6X mount. We are reviewing your comments and suggestions and will post an update shortly on our plans to improve the performance of this product.

user (posted 2012-03-27 11:22:41.0)

Terrible mount, the rotation DOF creeps. If you mount an optical fiber + collimator to this mount, the rotational DOF about the collimator optical axis creeps because of little friction. You cannot maintain any alignment, forget about polarization orientation. Increasing the friction will not fix the problem. Unless you fix this issue by adding a lock screw you should recall this product.

bdada (posted 2012-01-25 20:32:00.0)

Response from Buki at Thorlabs: Thank you for your response. You cannot lock the rotation of the K6X. Please use the link below to consider some of our lockable rotation mounts: http://www.thorlabs.com/NewGroupPage9.cfm?ObjectGroup_ID=1885 Depending on your application, we may be able to combine multiple products to get you the rotation and kinematic adjustment you need. We will contact you to continue this discussion.

rbjaculbia (posted 2012-01-24 00:12:35.0)

Hi, Is it possible to lock the rotation of the k6x? thank you

bdada (posted 2011-11-22 13:02:00.0)

Response from Buki at Thorlabs: Thank you so much for your feedback. We apologize you could not quickly find all relevant information about the K6X. The SM1 thread is 1.035"-40. This information is on the drawing but we are already working on including this information in the web presentation on this page and across our website to make it easier to identify the Thorlabs threads we use. Thank you again for your feedback. We have contacted you to provide additional support, but please contact TechSupport@thorlabs.com if you have any questions.

volkov (posted 2011-11-22 06:08:20.0)

Terrible. I spent hours both with catalogue and with your website trying to understand what is the thread of this mount (not a thread for mounting on post): the thread to mount optical components with it. Still I do not see any clear number.

bdada (posted 2011-10-21 13:59:00.0)

Response from Buki at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. We just released XY cage translators that provide translation without the optic cell rotating. Please refer to the link below to get more information about the CXY1 and CXY2. We are working on incorporating this design into the rest of our lens translators. Please contact TechSupport@thorlabs if you have any questions. http://www.thorlabs.com/NewGroupPage9.cfm?ObjectGroup_ID=184&pn=CXY1#3042

jjurado (posted 2011-09-01 11:51:00.0)

Response from Javier at Thorlabs to schaefer: The tip and tilt capability of the K6X mount should help in increasing the coupling efficiency of your system. However, there are other parameters that are also important such as the operating wavelength, the type of fiber used with the F810SMA-780, and the mechanics used to mount this fixed collimator. I will contact you directly to get more information about your experimental setup.

schaefer (posted 2011-08-31 15:42:14.0)

Hi, I use a HPSC10 fiber in combination with the reflective collimator (RC08FC-P01) to create a ray of light with very low divergence. The collimator is mounted on a 60mm cage (using CP1XY and an adapter from 30 ro 60mm cage). Can I use K6X to align the collimator in order to use F810SMA-780 to couple the light back into a fiber? It seems as if the thread of CP1XY isnt precise enough to allign the ray.

bdada (posted 2011-08-25 11:31:00.0)

Response from Buki at Thorlabs: The outer diameter for the X-Y adjustment knob is Ø0.28 and the tip/tilt adjustment knob is Ø0.58".

kmmertes (posted 2011-08-22 16:20:55.0)

I need to connect flexible drive shafts to the X,Y, Pitch and Yaw adjustment screws heads. What is the OD of the X-Y adjustment screw heads and the OD of the pitch and yaw adjustment screw heads? Thanks.

tor (posted 2010-11-15 15:01:43.0)

A response from Tor at Thorlabs to rbjaculbia: Thank you for your inquiry. Our Mechanics Department indicates that translation in the x- and y-axes will introduce ~2° of rotation. Please note that this can be easily corrected after adjustments in x- and y-axes are made.

rbjaculbia (posted 2010-11-14 21:22:10.0)

hi, how much rotation does the k6x introduce to the optic? Thanks

apalmentieri (posted 2010-02-10 14:09:15.0)

A response from Adam at Thorlabs to blair: The weight of the K6X is 1lbs. At this time, we do not offer a cheaper four axis kinematic mount. Thank you for the idea and I will contact you directly to get more information about the price you were looking for.

blair (posted 2010-02-10 10:38:53.0)

Hello, I couldnt find the weight of your unit. We want to use it on a motorized stage and interested in the weight due to limits of our stage. Also, do you offer a cheaper four-axis mount? I just want tilt and XY.

Greg (posted 2009-03-10 08:47:04.0)

A response from Greg at Thorlabs to marshabr: Thank you for your feedback regarding our products. We always like to hear our customers suggestions as customer centricity is at the heart of our company. I am sorry that our K6X mount is not suitable for your application. If you would like, I can have a member of our RMA staff issue a return on these for you. I will also let our Mechanics department that customers, like you, require a 6-Axis mount with completely independent axis adjustment. I updated the webpage to reflect the X- and Y-axis issue you mention.

marshabr (posted 2009-03-06 16:58:49.0)

I purchased two of the K6X mounts. They are not usable for my application because the translation mechanism is inherently coupled to rotation due to the design. When the positioner translates, the moving part pivots about the spring and visibly rotates, meaning that alignment will have to be iterative. This is a very poor design for translation, but it is simple and cheap. I will have to purchase from another vendor that makes a similar device with a good translation stage. I will have to find a use for these mounts in a less demanding application. You really should point out this problem in the description.

Tyler (posted 2008-10-03 08:28:16.0)

A response from Tyler at Thorlabs to jian.wang: Your idea has been entered into our internal engineering forum along with your contact information. Although not all ideas entered into the forum make it to the development stage, we always appreciate suggestions that come from the field. I will personally solicit the attention of an engineer to look at this idea. If the idea is adopted, we traditionally involve the originator of the the idea in the design stage as well provide them with preproduction models, in so much as they want to be involved. Thank you for your contribution.

jian.wang (posted 2008-10-01 07:22:30.0)

Dear Sir/Madam It would be a popular good source or detector mount for your cage system, if a cage system compatible new product of functions similar to the "K6X 6-Axis Kinematic Optic Mount" can be made availabe. Regards Dr. J Wang ASG,NPL,UK

Tyler (posted 2008-09-04 17:32:16.0)

A response from Tyler at Thorlabs to r96222041: This depends somewhat on how the device is mounted. However, we tested a K6X by hanging a mass 25 mm off of the front plate of the K6X. The mount functioned correctly for masses up to 330 grams. For heavier masses the springs were not stiff enough for the mount to function properly. We are always interested in hearing about the types of products our customers need for their applications. If you could provide us with more information about your application perhaps we could suggest an alternative solution or develop a product that would be suitable for your needs. Thank you for your interest in our products.

r96222041 (posted 2008-09-04 12:55:00.0)

I was wondering that how much weight can this K6X mount support? I want to mount a 700-gram device on it and I am afraid that is too much for this mount. Thanks for your reply.

Rotation Mount and Stage Selection Guide

Thorlabs offers a wide variety of manual and motorized rotation mounts and stages. Rotation mounts are designed with an inner bore to mount a Ø1/2", Ø1", or Ø2" optic, while rotation stages are designed with mounting taps to attach a variety of components or systems. Motorized options are powered by a DC Servo motor, 2 phase stepper motor, piezo inertia motor, or an Elliptec™ resonant piezo motor. Each offers 360° of continuous rotation.

Manual Rotation Mounts

Rotation Mounts for Ø1/2" Optics
Item #	MRM05(/M)	RSP05(/M)	CRM05	PRM05(/M)^a	SRM05	KS05RS	CT104
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Mini Series	Standard	External SM1 (1.035"-40) Threads	Micrometer	16 mm Cage-Compatible	±4° Kinematic Tip/Tilt Adjustment Plus Rotation	Compatible with 30 mm Cage Translation Stages and 1/4" Translation Stages^b
Additional Details

This mount is available in the PRM05GL5 bundle, which includes the PRM05 rotation mount with the SM05PM5 polarizing prism mount.
The CT104 is complatible with the 1/4" translation stages using our MS103(/M) adapter plate.
The CT104 is compatible with the CT1A(/M) cage translation stage, which is designed for use with 30 mm cage systems.

Rotation Mounts for Ø1" Optics
Item #	RSP1(/M)	LRM1	RSP1D(/M)	DLM1(/M)	CLR1(/M)	RSP1X15(/M)	RSP1X225(/M)	PRM1(/M)^a
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Standard	External SM1 (1.035"-40) Threads	Adjustable Zero	Two Independently Rotating Carriages	Rotates Optic Within Fixed Lens Tube System	Continuous 360° Rotation or 15° Increments	Continuous 360° Rotation or 22.5° Increments	Micrometer
Additional Details

This mount is available in the PRM1GL10 bundle, which includes the PRM1 rotation mount with the SM1PM10 polarizing prism mount.

Rotation Mounts for Ø1" Optics
Item #	LM1-A & LM1-B(/M)	CRM1T(/M)	CRM1LT(/M)	CRM1PT(/M)	KS1RS	K6XS
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Optic Carriage Rotates Within Mounting Ring	30 mm Cage-Compatible^a	30 mm Cage-Compatible for Thick Optics^a	30 mm Cage-Compatible with Micrometer^a	±4° Kinematic Tip/Tilt Adjustment Plus Rotation	Six-Axis Kinematic Mount^a
Additional Details

This mount also features four 4-40 (M3) holes on the rotation dial for use with the K6A1(/M) prism platform.

Rotation Mounts for Ø2" Optics
Item #	RSP2(/M)	RSP2D(/M)	PRM2(/M)	LM2-A & LM2-B(/M)	LCRM2A(/M)	KS2RS	K6X2
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Standard	Adjustable Zero	Micrometer	Optic Carriage Rotates Within Mounting Ring	60 mm Cage-Compatible	±4° Kinematic Tip/Tilt Adjustment Plus Rotation	Six-Axis Kinematic Mount
Additional Details

Rotation Drive Mechanism and Adjustment Range	Manual, 360° Continuous		Coarse: Manual, 360° Continuous; Fine: ±7° Micrometer	Manual, 360° Continuous
Optic Mounting	Internally SM2-Threaded Carriage			Internal SM2 Threads in LM2-A	Internally SM2-Threaded Carriage
Maximum Accepted Optic Thickness	0.51" (13 mm)	0.54" (13.7 mm)	0.48" (12.2 mm)	0.46" (11.7 mm)	0.52" (13.2 mm)	0.47" (12 mm)	0.53" (13.4 mm)
Post Mounting	8-32 (M4) Tap			8-32 (M4) Tap in LM2-B	8-32 (M4) Tap	Four Counterbores for 8-32 (M4) Cap Screws	Six Counterbores for 8-32 (M4) Cap Screws
Cage System Compatibility	N/A		Four 4-40 (M3) Taps on Rotation Dial with 60 mm Spacing	N/A	Four Bores for Ø6 mm Cage Rods with 60 mm Spacing	N/A	N/A

Manual Rotation Stages

Manual Rotation Stages
Item #	RP005(/M)	PR005(/M)	MSRP01(/M)	RP01(/M)	RP03(/M)	QRP02(/M)
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Standard					Two Hard Stops
Additional Details

Manual Rotation Stages
Item #	XRNR1(/M)	XRR1(/M)	PR01(/M)	CR1(/M)	XYR1(/M)	OCT-XYR1(/M)
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Fine Rotation Adjuster and 2" Wide Dovetail Quick Connect	Fine Rotation Adjuster and 3" Wide Dovetail Quick Connect	Fine Rotation Adjuster and SM1-Threaded Central Aperture	Fine Pitch Worm Gear	Rotation and 1/2" Linear XY Translation
Additional Details

The stage profile is higher when it is mounted using the screw slots rather than stacked on another stage or accessory with mating dovetails.
The OCT-XYR1(/M) stage includes the XYR1A solid sample plate. This plate can be detached from the stage to reveal the same mounting features present on the XYR1(/M) stage.

Motorized Rotation Mounts and Stages

Motorized Rotation Mounts and Stages with Central Clear Apertures
Item #	DDR25(/M)	PDR1C(/M)	PDR1(/M)	PDR1V(/M)	PDXR1(/M)
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Compatible with SM05 Lens Tubes, 16 mm Cage System, & 30 mm Cage System	Compatible with 16 mm Cage System	Compatible with SM05 Lens Tubes & 30 mm Cage System	Vacuum-Compatible; Also Compatible with SM05 Lens Tubes & 30 mm Cage System	Compatible with SM05 Lens Tubes & 30 mm Cage System
Additional Details

Motorized Rotation Mounts and Stages with Central Clear Apertures
Item #	K10CR1(/M)	PRM1Z8(/M)^a	DDR100(/M)	ELL14	HDR50(/M)
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Compatible with SM1 Lens Tubes & 30 mm Cage System		Compatible with SM1 Lens Tubes, 16 mm Cage System, 30 mm Cage System	Compatible with SM1 Lens Tubes, Open Frame Design for OEM Applications	Compatible with SM2 Lens Tubes
Additional Details

This stage is available in the KPRMTE(/M), which includes the PRMTZ8(/M) Motorized Rotation Stage with the KDC101 K-Cube DC Servo Motor Controller.

Motorized Rotation Mounts and Stages with Tapped Platforms
Item #	PRMTZ8(/M)^a	ELL18(/M)^b
Click Photo to Enlarge
Features	Tapped Mounting Platform for Mounting Prisms or Other Optics	Tapped Mounting Platform, Open Frame Design for OEM Applications
Additional Details

This stage is available in the KPRM1E(/M), which includes the PRMT1Z8(/M) Motorized Rotation Stage with the KDC101 K-Cube DC Servo Motor Controller.
This stage is available in the ELL18K(/M), which includes an interface board, mounting brackets, and connectors for PC control.

6-Axis Kinematic Optic Mounts

Zoom

6-Axis kinematic mount usage. Note that while this animation shows the K6XS,
the operation of the K6X05 and K6X2 is analogous.

Six Adjustment Axes with Locks (See Table to the Lower Right)
Independent X, Y, and Continuous 360° Roll Adjustment
Mounts Available for Ø1/2", Ø1", or Ø2" Optics
#8 (M4) Counterbores for Post Mounting

These 6-axis kinematic optic mounts are designed as general-purpose, high-precision positioners. The optic cell can be translated along or rotated about 6 axes, and each axis has a locking screw for stability. All three mounts use 1/4"-80 adjuster screws for pitch, yaw, and z-axis adjustment, and 3/16"-100 adjuster screws for x- and y-axis adjustment. The rotating optic housing is engraved with a graduated scale. Refer to the table below for detailed specifications.

Click to Enlarge

The rotating dial of the K6XS mount has tapped 4-40 holes for attaching the K6A1 prism mounting attachment (sold separately below). In testing, the K6XS was shown to drift less than 15 µrad in 48 hours at typical environmental conditions, with a 2 °C temperature fluctuation. The X and Y axes on the K6XS cause less than ±50 µm of crosstalk when translated over their full range, while the X and Y axes of the K6X05 and K6X2 cause less than ±35 µm of crosstalk.

If higher adjustment resolution is desired for pitch, yaw, or z-translation, the three 1/4"-80 adjusters can be replaced with DAS110 Differential Adjusters.

Item #	Optic Cell Threading	Optic Size	Max Optic Thickness	Pitch/Yaw Adjust (Resolution)	X/Y Adjust (Resolution)	Z Adjust^a(Resolution)	Rotation Scale Graduations	Included Retaining Ring	Mounting Counterbores
K6X05	SM05 (0.535"-40)	Ø1/2"	0.57" (14.4 mm)	±4° (4.2 mrad/rev)	±1.5 mm (254 µm/rev)	±3.2 mm (318 µm/rev)	Every 2°	SM05RR^b	Two #8 (M4)
K6XS	SM1 (1.035"-40)	Ø1"	0.57" (14.6 mm)	±4° (5 mrad/rev)	±2 mm (254 µm/rev)		Every 1°	SM1RR^c	Six #8 (M4)
K6X2	SM2 (2.035"-40)	Ø2"	0.53" (13.4 mm)	±2° (3.6 mrad/rev)	±2 mm (254 µm/rev)		Every 1°	SM2RR^d	Six #8 (M4)

Z-axis translation is accomplished by turning all three tip/tilt adjusters equally in the same direction.
Recommended Spanner Wrench (Sold Separately): SPW603 or SPW603L
Recommended Spanner Wrench (Sold Separately): SPW602 or SPW606
Recommended Spanner Wrench (Sold Separately): SPW604

Prism Mounting Attachment

Zoom

Click to Enlarge

View Imperial Product List

Item #	Qty	Description
K6A1	1	Prism Mount Accessory for K6XS 6-Axis Mount, Imperial
K6XS	1	6-Axis Locking Kinematic Mount for Ø1" Optics
PS910	1	N-BK7 Right-Angle Prism, Uncoated, L = 10 mm
TR4	1	Ø1/2" Optical Post, SS, 8-32 Setscrew, 1/4"-20 Tap, L = 4"

View Metric Product List

Item #	Qty	Description
K6A1/M	1	Prism Mount Accessory for K6XS 6-Axis Mount, Metric
K6XS	1	6-Axis Locking Kinematic Mount for Ø1" Optics
PS910	1	N-BK7 Right-Angle Prism, Uncoated, L = 10 mm
TR100/M	1	Ø12.7 mm Optical Post, SS, M4 Setscrew, M6 Tap, L = 100 mm

K6A1 Prism Accessory Mounted onto a K6XS 6-Axis Mount

Mounts on the Face of the K6XS Translating Cell
0.5" x 1.68" (12.7 mm x 42.7 mm) Platform
1/4" (6 mm) Adjustment Range

The K6A1(/M) platform accessory is designed to be mounted on the rotation ring on the K6XS 6-axis kinematic mount and our 30 mm cage-compatible rotation mounts using the included 4-40 screws and hex key. The platform has a height adjustment range of 1/4" (6.3 mm) so that the mounted optic can be positioned on the axis of rotation. Four 6-32 (M4 x 0.7) tapped holes at the corners of the platform surface can be used to mount the included PM3 (PM3/M) prism clamping arm or other optomechanics.

Clamping Arms

Zoom

Click to Enlarge
Clamping Arm Extension Posts with Metric Indicator Groove

Click for Details
Mechanical Drawings

Provide Clamping Force for Our Platform Mounts
6-32 (M4) Threads on Top and Bottom of Post
PM3(/M): Holds Optics up to 0.97" (24.6 mm) Tall
PM4(/M): Holds Optics up to 1.61" (40.9 mm) Tall
Extension Posts Available to Increase Max Optic Height
- PM3SP(/M) with PM3(/M): Hold Optics up to 2.21" (56.1 mm) Tall
- PM4SP(/M) with PM4(/M): Hold Optics up to 3.61" (91.7 mm) Tall

Thorlabs' PM3(/M) and PM4(/M) Clamping Arms use a nylon-tipped setscrew with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex to secure optics to our kinematic platform mounts and V-clamps. The PM3(/M) accommodates optics up to 0.97" (24.6 mm) tall and features a 0.69" (17.5 mm) center-to-center distance between the post and the nylon-tipped setscrew. In contrast, the PM4(/M) accommodates optics up to 1.61" (40.9 mm) and features a 1.16" (29.3 mm) center-to-center distance between the post and the nylon-tipped setscrew. The maximum optic height of the PM3(/M) or PM4(/M) Clamping Arms can be extended using our PM3SP(/M) or PM4SP(/M) Extension Posts, respectively. These extension posts are identical to the posts included in each complete clamping arm.

The clamping arm for all items is held to the post using a flexure mechanism that locks with a 5/64" (2.0 mm) balldriver or hex key. The post also offers a through hole for added torque when tightening down the post. Please see the diagram above for additional information.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey

+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available

PM3	Small Adjustable Clamping Arm, 6-32 Threaded Post

$21.86

Today

PM3SP Customer Inspired! Extension Post for PM3 Clamping Arm, 6-32 Threaded

$6.06

Today

PM4	Large Adjustable Clamping Arm, 6-32 Threaded Post

$26.73

Today

PM4SP Customer Inspired! Extension Post for PM4 Clamping Arm, 6-32 Threaded

$6.06

Today

+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available

PM3/M Small Adjustable Clamping Arm, M4 x 0.7 Threaded Post

$21.86

Today

PM3SP/M Customer Inspired! Extension Post for PM3/M Clamping Arm, M4 x 0.7 Threaded

$6.06

Today

PM4/M Large Adjustable Clamping Arm, M4 x 0.7 Threaded Post

$26.73

Today

PM4SP/M Customer Inspired! Extension Post for PM4/M Clamping Arm, M4 x 0.7 Threaded

$6.06

Today

Rotation Drive Mechanism and Adjustment Range	Manual, 360° Continuous			Coarse: Manual, 360° Continuous; Fine: Micrometer, ±7°	Manual, 360° Continuous
Optic Mounting	Internally SM05-Threaded Carriage
Maximum Accepted Optic Thickness	0.23" (5.8 mm)	0.23" (5.8 mm)	0.26" (6.5 mm)	0.23" (5.9 mm)	0.24" (6.0 mm)	0.41" (10.4 mm)	0.29" (7.3 mm)
Post Mounting	4-40 (M3) Stud	8-32 (M4) Tap	None	8-32 (M4) Tap	None	Two Counterbores for 8-32 (M4) Cap Screws	Two Counterbores for 4-40 (M3) Cap Screws
Cage System Compatibility	N/A				Four Bores for ∅4 mm Cage Rods with 16 mm Spacing	N/A	N/A^c

Rotation Drive Mechanism and Adjustment Range	Manual, 360° Continuous					Manual, Continuous: 360°; Discrete: 15°	Manual, Continuous: 360°; Discrete: 22.5°	Coarse: Manual, 360° Continuous; Fine: Micrometer, ±7°
Optic Mounting	Internally SM1-Threaded Carriage
Maximum Accepted Optic Thickness	0.47" (11.9 mm)	0.34" (8.6 mm)	0.51" (12.9 mm)	0.25" (6.4 mm)	0.27" (6.8 mm)	0.50" (12.7 mm)	0.50" (12.7 mm)	0.50" (12.7 mm)
Post Mounting	8-32 (M4) Tap	N/A	8-32 (M4) Tap
Cage System Compatibility	N/A							Four 4-40 (M3) Taps on Rotation Dial with 30 mm Spacing

Rotation Drive Mechanism and Adjustment Range	Manual, 360° Continuous			Coarse: Manual, 360° Continuous; Fine: Micrometer, ±7°	Manual, 360° Continuous
Optic Mounting	Internal SM1 Threads in LM1-A	Internally SM1-Threaded Carriage	Double-Bore with Setscrew	Internally SM1-Threaded Carriage
Accepted Optic Thickness	Max: 0.37" (9.4 mm)	Max: 0.37" (9.4 mm)	Min: 0.31" (7.9 mm)	Max: 0.37" (9.4 mm)	Max: 0.47" (11.9 mm)	Max: 0.55" (14 mm)
Post Mounting	8-32 (M4) Tap in LM1-B	8-32 (M4) Tap			Six Counterbores for 8-32 (M4) Cap Screws
Cage System Compatibility	N/A	Four Bores for ∅6 mm Cage Rods with 30 mm Spacing			N/A

Rotation Drive Mechanism and Adjustment Range	Manual, 360° Continuous
Mounting Platform
Diameter	Ø1.00" (Ø25.4 mm)	Ø1.00" (Ø25.4 mm)	Ø1.40" (Ø35.6 mm)	Ø2.07" (Ø52.8 mm)	Ø4.29" (Ø109.0 mm)	Ø2.00" (Ø50.8 mm)
Height	0.67" (17.0 mm)	0.75" (19.1 mm)	0.51" (13.1 mm)	0.63" (16.1 mm)	0.70" (17.8 mm)	1.00" (25.4 mm)
Taps	Six 4-40 (M3) One 1/4"-20 (M6)	One 8-32 (M4) Eight 4-40 (M3)	Four 4-40 (M3) One 8-32 (M4)	Four 8-32 (M4) One 1/4"-20 (M6)	Eight 6-32 (M4) Sixteen 8-32 (M4) Thirteen 1/4"-20 (M6)	Four 6-32 (M4) Four 8-32 (M4) Five 1/4"-20 (M6)
Additional Holes	Two Ø0.13" (Ø3.2 mm) Holes for FiberBench Accessories	-	Four Clearance Holes for 4-40 (M3) Cap Screws	-	-	-
Platform Adapter Plate(s)	-	-	-	-	-	-
Base
Dimensions	1.50" x 1.50" (38.1 x 38.1 mm)	1.50" x 1.50" (38.1 x 38.1 mm)	1.78" x 1.40" (45.2 x 35.6 mm)	2.45" x 2.45" (62.2 x 62.2 mm)	4.65" x 4.65" (118.1 x 118.1 mm)	2.55" x 2.55" (64.8 x 64.8 mm)
Mounting Holes	Four Clearance Holes for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws	Four Clearance Holes for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws	Four Clearance Holes for 4-40 (M3) Cap Screws	Four Clearance Holes for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws	Four Clearance Holes for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws	Four Counterbores for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws
Side Taps for Vertical Mounting	-	-	One 4-40 (M3)	One 8-32 (M4)	Three 8-32 (M4)	-
Cage System Compatibility	N/A

Rotation Drive Mechanism and Adjustment Range	Manual: 360° Continuous; Fine: Adjuster Screw, ±5°	Manual: 360° Continuous; Fine: Adjuster Screw, ±5°	Manual: 360° Continuous; Fine: Micrometer, ±5°	Worm Gear, 360° Continuous	Manual, 360° Continuous with 1/2" (13 mm) Linear Travel Along X and Y Axes with Micrometer
Mounting Platform
Diameter	Ø2.21" (Ø56.0 mm)	Ø3.19" (Ø81.0 mm)	Ø2.70" (Ø68.6 mm)	Ø1.70" (Ø43.2 mm)	Ø4.18" (Ø106.0 mm)	Ø4.04" (Ø102.5 mm)
Height	On Breadboard: 0.91" (23.0 mm)^a Dovetail Stacked: 0.83" (21.0 mm)	On Breadboard: 0.91" (23.0 mm)^a Dovetail Stacked: 0.83" (21.1 mm)	1.00" (25.3 mm)	1.00" (25.4 mm)	1.00" (25.4 mm)	1.65" (41.8 mm)
Taps	Thirteen 1/4"-20 (M6) Four 8-32 (M4) Four 6-32 (M4)	Thirteen 1/4"-20 (M6) Four 8-32 (M4) Four 6-32 (M4)	Four 4-40 (M3) Ten 6-32 (M4) Six 1/4"-20 (M6)	Four 4-40 (M3) Eight 6-32 (M4) Four 8-32 (M4)	Eight 4-40 (M3) Twelve 8-32 (M4) Sixteen 1/4"-20 (M6)	-^b
Additional Holes	-	-	Ø0.94" (Ø23.9 mm) Clear Aperture with SM1 Threading	-	Ø0.90" (Ø22.9 mm) Clear Aperture with SM1 Threading	-^b
Platform Adapter Plate(s)	-	-	PR01A(/M) CRA30(/M)	CR1A(/M)	XYR1A	-^b
Base
Dimensions	3.35" x 2.52" (85.0 mm x 63.9 mm)	4.33" x 3.58" (110.0 mm x 91.0 mm)	2.75" x 3.50" (69.9 x 88.9 mm)	2.76" x 2.10" (70.1 x 53.4 mm)	5.50" x 4.42" (139.7 x 112.3 mm) (Not Including Micrometers)
Mounting Holes	Four Mounting Slots for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws	Four Mounting Slots for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws	Four Mounting Slots for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws	Two Mounting Slots for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws	Four Mounting Slots for 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws
Side Taps for Vertical Mounting	-	-	Two 1/4"-20 (M6)	-	-
Cage System Compatibility	-	N/A	Four 4-40 Taps on Top Surface for 30 mm Cage System	N/A	Four 4-40 Taps on Top Surface for 30 mm Cage System Four 4-40 Taps on Top Surface for 60 mm Cage System Four 4-40 Taps on Bottom Surface for 60 mm Cage System	-^b

Motor Type	Brushless DC Servo	Piezo Inertia Drive
Rotation Adjustment Range	360° Continuous
Rotating Platform/Carriage
Diameter	1.14" (29.0 mm)	1.10" (28.0 mm)	1.34" (34.0 mm)	1.96" (49.7 mm)
Height	1.12" (28.5 mm)	0.71" (18.0 mm)		0.91" (23.0 mm)
Threaded Mounting Holes	Four 4-40 with 16 mm Spacing	Four 8-32 (M4 x 0.7), Four 4-40 with 16 mm Spacing	Four 8-32 (M4 x 0.7)	Four 8-32 (M4 x 0.7), Four 4-40 with 30 mm Spacing Four 2-56 (M2 x 0.4)
Center Aperture	SM05 Internal Threads, 1.2" (28.5 mm) Deep	Ø4.9 mm Clear Aperture with 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0) Internal Threads, Thru	Ø9.0 mm Clear Aperture with SM05 Internal Threads, 2.5 mm Deep	Ø9.0 mm Clear Aperture with SM05 Internal Threads, 3.5 mm Deep
Speed (Max)	1800°/s	100°/s	20°/s	30°/s
Base
Dimensions	2.19" x 2.19" (55.6 mm x 55.6 mm)	1.18" x 1.18" (30 mm x 30 mm)	1.57" x 1.57" (40.0 mm x 40.0 mm)	2.20" x 2.20" (56.0 mm x 56.0 mm)
Bottom Surface Mounting Features	-	Two #2 (M2) Slots	Two 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) Holes	Two #8 (M4) Counterbores Two 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) Holes
Side Holes for Vertical Mounting	Four 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) Eight 4-40	Three 8-32 (M4 x 0.7)	One 8-32 (M4 x 0.7), Two Sides	One 8-32 (M4 x 0.7)
Cage System Compatibility	Four 4-40 Holes on Back Side with 16 mm Spacing, Four 4-40 Taps on Front Side with 30 mm Spacing	-	Ø6 mm Holes for ER Cage Rods with 30 mm Spacing	Four 4-40 Taps on Rotating Platform with 30 mm Spacing

Motor Type	2 Phase Stepper Motor with Worm Gear	DC Servo	Brushless DC Servo	Piezo Resonant Motor	2 Phase Stepper Motor with Worm Gear
Rotation Adjustment Range	360° Continuous
Rotating Platform/Carriage
Diameter	1.81" (46.0 mm)	1.97" (50.0 mm)	4.37" (111.0 mm)	-	3.86" (98.0 mm)
Height	0.84" (21.5 mm)	0.91" (23.0 mm)	1.57" (39.9 mm)	0.59" (15.1 mm)	1.73" (44.0 mm)
Threaded Mounting Holes	Six 4-40 (M3)	Four 6-32 (M4), Four 8-32 (M4), Four 4-40 with 30 mm Spacing	Eight 8-32 (M4), Four 1/4"-20 (M6), Four 4-40 with 16 mm Spacing, Four 4-40 with 30 mm Spacing	-	Four 8-32 (M4)
Center Aperture	SM1 Internal Threads, 0.84" (21.5 mm) Deep	SM1 Internal Threads, 0.91" (23.0 mm) Deep	SM1 Internal Threads, 0.82" (21.0 mm) Deep	SM1 Internal Threads, 0.58" (14.7 mm) Deep	Ø50.0 mm Clear Aperture with SM1 Internal Threads, 6.9 mm Deep
Speed (Max)	10°/s	25°/s	1080°/s	430°/s	50°/s
Platform Adapter Plate(s)	K10CR1A2(/M)	PRM1SP1(/M)	NR360SP9(/M) NR360SP4(/M)	-	NR360SP9(/M) NR360SP8 NR360SP4(/M)
Base
Dimensions	4.21" x 2.60" (107.0 mm x 66.0 mm)	5.18" x 3.26" (131.5 mm x 82.8 mm)	4.53" x 4.53" (115 mm x 115 mm)	2.60" x 3.25" (66.0 mm x 82.5 mm)	7.46" x 4.55" (189.4 mm x 115.5 mm)
Stage Adapter Plates	K10CR1A1 K10CR1A3	PRM1SP2 PRM1SP3	-	-	NR360SP2(/M) NR360SP5(/M)
Bottom Surface Mounting Holes	-	Two 1/4" (M6) Counterbores	Four 1/4" (M6) Clearance Holes	-	Four 1/4" (M6) Counterbores
Side Holes for Vertical Mounting	Three 8-32 (M4)	Four 8-32 (M4)	Eight 1/4"-20 (M6)	-	Six 1/4"-20 (M6)
Cage System Compatibility	Four 4-40 Holes on Each Side with 30 mm Spacing	-	Four 4-40 Holes on Back Side with 30 mm Spacing	60 mm Cage using Four Ø0.12" (3.0 mm) Holes for 4-40 Screws, 30 mm Cage using SR025 Cage Rods to Adapt to ER Cage Rods	-