SHREWSBURY, Mass., Aug. 4, 2026 — PI (Physik Instrumente) has introduced the A-725, a five-axis air bearing nanopositioning system that pairs a true planar XY stage with an integrated parallel-kinematics Z-θX-θY module. Designed and built in the US by the global leader in precision motion control and nanoscale positioning, PI's 5-DOF stage targets semiconductor manufacturing, photonics, metrology, microscopy and precision automation, offering frictionless motion, high geometric accuracy and precise multi-axis alignment in a compact package.
Launching at Photonics West, the A-725 is available in different configurations with XY travel ranging from 100×100 mm to 300×400 mm, along with 5 mm of Z travel and ±2° of tip/tilt. With a 250 mm platform diameter and payload capacity up to 8 kg, it's suited to demanding tasks like optical inspection, alignment and laser dicing.
Low-profile planar XY base stage
The A-725 is built on PI's A-311 planar air bearing stage, where the platform moves across a single reference plane in both X and Y — unlike conventional stacked designs. This eliminates stacking errors and minimizes Abbe offsets, improving geometric accuracy over stacked or mechanical-bearing alternatives. Read this tech blog comparison on design types.
Parallel-kinematics Z-Tip-Tilt module
Mounted above the base stage, PI's A-523 Z-θX-θY module delivers vertical and angular positioning while maintaining a low center of gravity.
Direct-drive, turnkey design: Tuned and tested with EtherCat controller
Ironless three-phase linear motors drive all five axes, removing friction, backlash, cogging and wear. Each system ships wired, tested and servo-tuned with PI ACS-based controllers, reducing commissioning time.
Specifications, datasheet: 5-axis air bearing stage
Watch the Video: Systems in Motion: Improving Wafer Inspection & Metrology w/Air Bearings and Piezo Nanopositioning Stages.
