Design Features



The AOM130M series of gimbal mounts position optical components as large as 600 mm in diameter in both azimuth and elevation. The AOM130M mounts provide outstanding stability and sub-arc-second resolution for use in optics and laser experimentation in research or industrial laboratory settings.

Precision Bearings Ensure Accuracy

The AOM130M\'s precision gimbal pivot ball bearings minimize backlash and reduce stiction. The mirror cell and azimuth bearing systems utilize high-quality preloaded angular contact bearings that permit fully-loaded operation in any orientation, including upside-down.

Excellent Positioning Capability

The AOM130M mounts possess desirable positioning characteristics including 0.75 arc sec unidirectional repeatability, negligible backlash and hysteresis that is typically better than 5 arc sec. The mechanical and thermal stabilities of the AOM130M series are excellent. The rigid castings employed help push resonant frequencies beyond 200 Hz, and thermal stability is better than 2 µrad/°C.

Highly Accurate Limits and Homing System

All AOM130M mounts are equipped with high accuracy limit switches. Combining the output of these switches and the motor\'s marker signal, Aerotech\'s motion controllers can position the AOM130M mounts to highly accurate home reference points, typically to within 0.001°.

Standard Sizes to 600 mm

AOM130M series motor-driven gimbal mounts are available in six standard sizes that accommodate 152.4, 228.6, 304.8, 406.4, 508.0 and 609.6 mm diameter optical components. In addition, adapters for 127.0, 203.2 and 254.0 mm diameter optics are available as accessories, providing mounting capability for virtually all standard optic elements between 127.0 and 609.6 mm in diameter.

Full 360° AZ and EL Positioning

High resolution positioning in the range of ±4° is achieved under motor control. Rotational freedom is further extended to a full 360 degrees by unclamping the mirror cell and/or azimuth assembly (a tool is included), manually rotating each axis anywhere in a 360° range, and then reclamping. Neither of the manual adjustments disturbs the precision motorized drive assembly.

Wide Range of Resolutions and Drive Choices

Depending upon the motor selected (microstepping or servo) and the controller resolution setting, resolution to 0.008 arc second is achievable with the AOM130M. Some commonly specified resolutions and corresponding mount resolutions are listed in the specifications table. For mount resolutions other than those listed in the specifications table, please contact us.


A home marker encoder and positioning knob are options for microstepping versions. The DC servomotor is equipped with a rotary encoder with marker-to-enable closed-loop positioning feedback.