Operating instructions

APPROACHING THE SAMPLE

Approaching the sample

To start measuring, the tip must come within a fraction of a nanometer of

the sample without touching it with too much force. To achieve this, a very

careful and sensitive approach of the cantilever is required. This delicate

operation is carried out in three steps: Manual coarse approach, manual

approach using the approach stage, and the automatic final approach. The

colour of the probe status light on the Controller shows the status of the

approach:

orange Normal state during approach, the Z-scanner is fully

extended toward the sample.

red The approach has gone too far, the tip was driven into

the sample, and the Z-scanner is fully retracted away

from the sample. In this case, the tip is probably dam-

aged, so you will have to start over again with install-

ing a new tip.

green The approach is finished, the Z-scanner is within the

measuring range.

The approach is operated using the Positioning window. To open this win-

dow:

- Click the Positioning icon in the Navigator.

Use the side view of the cantilever to judge the distance between tip and the

sample surface. To use the side view:

- If the AFM Video Module is installed, click in the

Video panel of the Positioning window.

- If you do not have the Video Module, use the side view lens to observe

the sample instead.

Even if you do not have the Video Module, you can use the Top and Side

view switches to quickly change the illumination to a predetermined level.