Optical mounts are used to connect optical equipment to another, non-optical apparatus. The simplest type of optical mount holds cameras in place for steady and reliable photography, but there is much more to them than that. Optical mounts play an important part in both the manufacturing and research fields. They keep measuring equipment stable and allow accurate readings over a long period of time. Proper use of industrial optical mounts allows machine crafting processes to operate.

There are several prominent optical mount manufacturers, each with their own line of products. Some companies provide specialized optical mounting equipment, and some provide optical tables (which works like an entire series of optical mounts hooked to a single flat table). Consider the following when looking for information about optical mounts:

1. Businesses should opt to purchase directly from the optical mount distributors.

2. Smaller vendors often have specialized optical mounts.

3. Optical tables are superior to a single optical mount for highly specialized projects.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find optical mount suppliers

As with many industrial and research products, it's often best to go directly to the manufacturer. An optical mount manufacturer is likely to have a similar, but slightly different, product line than one of their competitors. Know exactly what you need before shopping so you can find exactly what you want.

I recommend: Newport, Standa and Aerotech are all industry leaders in optical accessories. They feature a wide selection of products and will work directly with buyers to find the right mount for their needs.

Find an optical mount supplier that specializes in specific areas

With a product as varied as optical mounts, it's difficult to cover everything a purchaser may need. Some smaller companies make specialized equipment that falls through the cracks of the larger companies.

I recommend: Rolyn Optics sells optical mount equipment for research; they specialize in small sizes and high tolerances. For a wide range of specialized equipment, look at Capovani Brothers. They also sell used and refurbished optical mounts.

Locate an optical mount distributor that sells optical tables

Optical tables are special platforms with several areas for mounting optics. These tables are commonly used in research and testing areas where lasers or other light forms need to be bounced several times as part of the test.

I recommend: Both TMC and Thorlabs sell a variety of optical tables.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Optical mounts come in a dazzling array of sizes and styles. If you're replacing an old mount, it's important to get the exact same thing you had before. A machine may have its optics measured in fractions of an inch, and the wrong mounting may disrupt its functions.