Custom Controller Needed for Motorized Leica Microscope Lens (Focus, Iris, Zoom)

[lalan45]

Hi everyone, I’m looking for someone with experience in electronics and programming who can help with a custom control project.
I have a Leica microscope lens that uses motorized focus, iris, and zoom, all currently controlled by an original Leica controller. My goal is to replace or bypass that controller with an alternative system that gives much finer control, specifically for filming and video work.
As an example, the current zoom control only allows fast or slow movement. I’d like smooth, variable-speed control instead — ideally with options like a joystick, dial, or similar input so I can precisely control the motors over a wide range of speeds.
If you’ve worked on motor control, reverse engineering, microcontrollers, or similar projects, I’d really like to hear from you. I’m happy to provide more technical details about the lens, motors, and existing controller if needed.
Also, if this post belongs in a different section, please let me know. Thanks

 

[Harald Kapp]

Can you provide information how the original controller controls the motors? Ideally a circuit diagram or at least a signal and timing diagram.
If not, can you provide information on the motors being used by the microscope? Any replacement controller will have to be built to match the type of motor (BLDC, stepper, servo, ...).
It is also of interest whether there is any feedback mechanism, e.g. position sensors, end sensors etc.