"Hig-Mover" system uses open RS-485 protocol, has apps for Windows over serial and for Android over Bluetooth.

Higbie Labs has introduced a new miniature direct-drive smart rotary stage. Its unique octangonal housing offers versatile mounting options in a package that's only 116mm across and 53.15mm tall, with a 22mm through-bore. Built into this small package are motor, drive electronics and 18-bit absolute encoder.

With a peak torque of 12 ft-lbs, the "Hig-Mover" stage is suited for applications such as camera mounts, optical positioning, material handling, inspection automation, test and measurement and animatronics.

Being fully integrated, multiple movers can be daisy-chained over a single ethernet-style cable carrying serial control and power. Thanks to their internal slip rings, two or three movers can be nested together.

Higbie's apps for Windows and Android offer easy and versatile setup and operation with features like preset positions and a menu-driven scripting tool for easy sequencing and programming of multiple movers. Their serial protocol is open so users with custom applications can adapt their own controllers. The movers can also follow industry-standard step and direction signals.

The optional "Hig-Hub" accessory provides the Bluetooth connectivity for Android, as well as 8 analog inputs and isolated digital I/O's (4 in, 4 out). A multi-mover system with the "Hig-Hub" can operate standalone with no computer present.