Veeco Dimension 3100, Manual

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Head, Probe, & Sample Preparation
Basic AFM Operation
102 Dimension 3100 Manual Rev. D
7.2 Basic AFM Operation
7.2.1 Select the Microscope
1. Set the microscope configuration by selecting the Microscope Select panel from the Di pop-
down menu (see Figure 7.2a ).
2. Click
OK
to close the Microscope > Select dialog box and initiate the Realtime software.
Figure 7.2a Microscope Select Prompt
7.2.2 Select Mode of Operation
1. Select Microscope > Profile .
2. Select the desired mode of operation (Contact Mode, TappingMode, etc.) and click
OK
.
7.2.3 Prepare the Cantilever Holder
Before loading the substrate onto the cantilever holder, place the cantilever holder on the cantilever
holder stand (see
Figure 7.2b ). The cantilever holder stand is a 2.5-inch diameter black anodized
aluminum cylinder that ships with the Dimension 3100 SPM for easy installation of the substrate
onto the cantilever holder.
The cantilever holder stand has three stations for different tip holders: 1) standard AFM, 2) fluid
imaging AFM and 3) STM. A small, raised block in the center of the gold connector identifies the
standard AFM load station.
To prepare the cantilever holder, with the AFM cantilever holder's large spring clip face up, mate
the standard AFM cantilever holder sockets to the pins of the AFM cantilever holder stand (see
Figure 7.2b ).