Veeco Dimension 3100, Manual

Page: 197 / 376

Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM)
Basic STM Operation
Rev. D Dimension 3100 Manual 177
Figure 11.1a Dimension Tip Holder and Head Connection
11.2 Basic STM Operation
11.2.1 Imaging Samples
This section explains how to use the NanoScope to image the 10µm, silicon standard supplied with
the system.
1. Select the STM option— Click the left mouse button with the cursor on the Realtime icon in
the menu bar to select the Realtime operating mode. Pull down the Microscope menu by
clicking on the Microscope item in the menu bar, click on the Select command, then click on
STM and OK to place the microscope into STM mode.
2. Insert a new tip in the tip-holding tube mounted on the STM tip holder. The tips come in a
small, plastic snap-box filled with black foam. Grip the tip with tweezers near the sharp end,
then insert the blunt end of the tip into the tip-holder. For the tip to be held in the tube, it is
necessary to put a small bend in the tip before it is completely inserted. The tip should be
inserted so that it protrudes about 2mm beyond the end of the head and should be fairly tight
in the tip-holder. The business end of the tip must project beyond the bottom profile of the tip
holder’s preamp chip; otherwise, the chip will bottom out on the sample surface before the
tip engages.
3. Load the calibration standard (sample) onto the stage using a magnetic puck. Ensure that the
standard is in electrical contact with the stage surface. This usually necessitates using an
electrically conductive epoxy (silver-based) to affix the sample to the surface of the puck
(e.g., Dynaloy 325).
BOTTOM VIEW
SIDE VIEW
(tip installed)
STM Metal Tip
Op Amp
Tip Holding Tube
Electrical Mounting
Sockets (4)