| Nov 11, 2025 |
PINovAlign automated fiber alignment system for silicon photonics
Available in 3-asix to 6-axis variants for single- and dual-sided fiber and fiber-array applications.
(Nanowerk News) PI (Physik Instrumente) offers a new 6-axis variant of its successful F-141 PINovAlign automated fiber alignment system. The F-141 is a compact, cost-optimized high-performance alignment solution providing precision motion in 2, 3, 4 and degrees of freedom for the industrial test and assembly of photonic integrated circuits (PICs), fibers and fiber array units (FAU). Designed for space-limited environments, the F-141 fits within a footprint of just 5 x 7 x 4 inches (WxLxH) while delivering 40 mm of XYZ travel and ±12° of rotation—ideal for array alignment tasks.
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| The F-141 PINovAlign is a cost-optimized, high-speed photonics alignment system available in 3 to 6-axis single- and dual-sided variants. The PINovAlign system is ideal for array alignment and silicon photonics applications. (Image: PI)
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Direct-Drive Design Provides for High Dynamics
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Powered by direct-drive motors, the system achieves high acceleration, speed, and resolution with long lifetime and maintenance-free operation. Crossed-roller bearings and flexure guides ensure smooth, precise motion and repeatable performance.
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Optional 6-Axis Version
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In addition to 2-, 3-, and 4-axis models, the F-141 is available with an optional pitch/yaw module for fully automated six-degree-of-freedom alignment. Custom configurations are also available for different optical axis orientations.
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Advanced Alignment Control and Integrated Intelligence
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The F-141 is driven by PI’s EtherCAT®-based multi-axis alignment controller, featuring rapid signal analysis and onboard machine learning. Embedded scan and alignment routines deliver faster and more reliable results than conventional host-based algorithms, simplifying system integration and boosting throughput.
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Fastest First-Light Detection in the Industry
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PI’s proprietary alignment algorithms enable industry-leading first-light acquisition and signal optimization speeds—up to 100× faster than conventional techniques. Leveraging ultra-low-noise electronics, pulse-width modulation (PWM) amplifiers, and 24-bit analog-to-digital converters for high-bandwidth optical power monitoring, the F-141 delivers highly stable and repeatable optical coupling performance, even under challenging environmental conditions.
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SPIE Prism Award Finalist
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The F-141 PINovAlign system was also recognized as a finalist for the SPIE Prism Award in the Test & Measurement category. The winners will be announced in January 2026, during the Photonics West Conference in San Francisco.
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Industries Served
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PIC alignment, fiber alignment, photonics test and assembly, optical component assembly, automated photonic wafer testing, photonics wafer probing.
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