Piezoelectric Stack and Nanopositioning Amplifiers — Why Stacked Actuators Need More Current

Nanopositioning stages, stacked PZT actuators, and open-loop packaged piezoelectric ceramics all share a common driving requirement: a power amplifier that can supply substantial current at a moderate, well-controlled voltage range. Aigtek's ATA-P series is purpose-built for this piezoelectric stack driving role.

Why Piezoelectric Stacks Are a Distinct Load From Single-Element Ceramics

A stacked PZT actuator is effectively many piezoelectric elements connected in a mechanical series, electrical parallel configuration — this multiplies the effective capacitance compared to a single ceramic element, which in turn multiplies the current needed to drive it at a given frequency. The ATA-P series addresses this with current ratings up to 10A, substantially higher than the current available from Aigtek's general piezoelectric ceramic amplifiers at a comparable voltage range.

The Three Models

Note the asymmetric voltage range on the ATA-P2010 (-20V to 130V) — many piezoelectric stack actuators are specified with a small allowable negative voltage excursion alongside a larger positive range, and this model's output range reflects that directly rather than offering a symmetric ± swing that wouldn't match typical stack actuator ratings.

Applications Beyond Nanopositioning

The ATA-P series is documented for use across nanomanufacturing, ultrasonic acoustics, precision machining, and laser technology — essentially anywhere a piezoelectric stack is used as the final actuation element in a precision motion or vibration system. Selecting between the three models comes down to your required response bandwidth (which sets an upper practical limit on stage positioning speed) and the current your specific stack actuator draws at that bandwidth.

Finch Electronic Solutions — Melbourne, Australia
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