The OpenStand is a configurable and motorized optical stand. It can be combined with a range of available optics, light sources, and accessories. It can then become part of a customizable optical microscope. It is designed for optogenetics, physiology, electrophysiology, neuroscience, industrial, and general imaging applications. The OpenStand is designed to allow interchangeability, flexibility, and the imaging of a range of samples. Overall, it can offer a custom working development platform.