Hexatron 1000

The Hexatron 1000 is PopNeuron's compact tabletop hexapod (Stewart platform) delivering true six-degree-of-freedom positioning across X, Y, Z translation and pitch, roll, and yaw rotation. Its parallel kinematic design eliminates the cumulative errors and reduced stiffness of stacked XYZ stages, making it ideal for laser alignment, micromanipulation, and stereotaxic applications requiring simultaneous angular and spatial control.

Hexatron 1000

What is the Hexatron 1000?

The Hexatron 1000 from PopNeuron is a compact, tabletop hexapod (Stewart platform) offering six-degree-of-freedom precision positioning for laboratory research. Unlike traditional stacked XYZ stages, which compound mechanical errors through sequential axes, the Hexatron 1000's parallel kinematic design distributes loads across all six actuators simultaneously—delivering exceptional rigidity, minimal positioning error, and vibration resistance across the entire working envelope.

Six Degrees of Freedom

The Hexatron 1000 provides full control over X, Y, and Z translation plus pitch, roll, and yaw rotation—movements that a conventional 3-axis stage cannot achieve. Each axis offers ±15 mm (linear) or ±15° (rotational) of travel with 0.25 mm / 0.25° unidirectional repeatability, making it suitable for tasks that require precise angular adjustment as well as fine spatial positioning.

Breadboard Top Plate

The top plate features a precision-machined breadboard design with a standardized grid of threaded mounting holes (1/4-20), allowing unrestricted attachment of optical components, sensors, micromanipulators, or any custom instrumentation. This makes the Hexatron 1000 a universal positioning platform that adapts to evolving research needs without requiring custom adapters or structural redesign.

Key Features

  • 6-Axis Parallel Kinematics: True 6-DOF positioning (X/Y/Z + pitch/roll/yaw) with superior stiffness over stacked serial stages.
  • Compact Tabletop Form Factor: W16 × L16 × H28 cm—integrates easily into existing setups and microscopy enclosures.
  • Breadboard Top Plate: Standardized 1/4-20 threaded grid for unlimited component mounting configurations.
  • Multiple Control Options: Standalone PC software (v1.1), MATLAB library, and Python library all available for download.
  • High Load Capacity: Supports up to 8 lb (3.62 kg) while maintaining positional accuracy.
  • Compatible with PopNeuron Baseplates: Works with the large (600×375 mm) or small (375×375 mm) aluminum breadboard baseplates.

Applications

  • Laser beam steering and optical alignment in optogenetics setups
  • Precision tool and fiber positioning for stereotaxic procedures
  • Sample manipulation in imaging or spectroscopy systems
  • In vivo small animal positioning requiring angular and spatial control
  • Any application demanding simultaneous angular and linear precision

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Technical Specifications

ModelHexatron 1000
Platform TypeHexapod (Stewart Platform)
DimensionsW16 × L16 × H28 cm
Travel Range (X, Y, Z)±15 mm each axis
Rotation Range (Pitch, Yaw, Roll)±15° each axis
Max Velocity (Linear)10 mm/s
Max Angular Velocity10°/s
Unidirectional Repeatability (Linear)0.25 mm
Unidirectional Repeatability (Angular)0.25°
Maximum Load Capacity8 lb (3.62 kg)
MaterialAnodized Aluminum
ColorAnodized Black
Operating Temperature10°C to 50°C
Top PlateBreadboard with 1/4-20 threaded mounting grid
Control OptionsStandalone software (v1.1), MATLAB library, Python library

Hexatron 1000 render blue background
Hexatron 1000 breadboard top plate
Hexatron 1000 side view
Hexatron 1000 stability design

In Vivo Recording

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Peer-reviewed research on hexapod positioning platforms in laboratory research

The Hexatron 1000 is built on Stewart platform / hexapod technology with a strong body of literature documenting six-DOF positioning accuracy, parallel kinematic advantages, and neuroscience applications in stereotaxic and optical alignment contexts.

What is the Hexatron 1000 and what makes a hexapod better than a conventional XYZ stage?

The Hexatron 1000 is a compact tabletop hexapod (Stewart platform) from PopNeuron providing six degrees of freedom—X, Y, Z translation plus pitch, roll, and yaw rotation. Conventional XYZ stages stack axes sequentially, compounding mechanical errors and reducing stiffness. The Hexatron 1000's parallel kinematic design distributes loads across all six actuators simultaneously, delivering superior rigidity, less positional error, and greater vibration resistance.

What software options are available for controlling the Hexatron 1000?

The Hexatron 1000 can be controlled through PopNeuron's standalone PC software (version 1.1), a MATLAB library, or a Python library—all downloadable from the PopNeuron website. A smartphone companion app for wireless control is also in development. This multi-platform approach allows integration into automated experimental pipelines or custom control scripts without proprietary lock-in.

What accessories are compatible with the Hexatron 1000?

The Hexatron 1000 is compatible with PopNeuron's precision aluminum baseplates—available in large (600×375 mm) and small (375×375 mm) sizes—featuring a breadboard grid of 1/4-20 threaded holes. The breadboard top plate on the Hexatron itself uses the same threading standard, enabling direct mounting of optical components, micromanipulators, sensors, or any custom instrumentation.

What are the typical research applications for the Hexatron 1000 in neuroscience?

In neuroscience research, the Hexatron 1000 is used for precision laser alignment in optogenetics setups, fine positioning of optical fibers or electrodes during in-vivo procedures, and controlled animal positioning in stereotaxic configurations where angular adjustment is required alongside XYZ translation. It is also used in physics and engineering for optical alignment and robotics.

Is the Hexatron 1000 available in Israel with local support?

Yes. NBT Ltd distributes POPneuron products including the Hexatron 1000 in Israel. Our team provides local demonstrations, installation support, and technical assistance in Hebrew or English.

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