© ICSPI Corp. 2007-2021
nGauge AFM User Manual 2.0
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During a scan, the Fine Z is used to track the sample topography. The Fine Z graph will change
during a scan
– try clicking on the Approach page during a scan to watch the Fine Z change:
At the end of a scan, Fine Z gets reset to the middle of its range (because the tip goes back to
its initial lateral position).
The end of the scanner range is 0 V or 3.3 V on the Fine Z page. If the tip reaches either of
these extremes, data can no longer be collected. During a scan, it is recommended to check the
Approach page to make sure that the Fine Z is within the middle of the range and not
approaching one of the extremes.
Example of Fine Z reaching 0 V: the tip is no longer in contact with the sample. The amplitude is
above the setpoint: