Contact Mode AFM
8
Scanning Probe Microscope Training Notebook
Rev. F
3.0
Contact Mode AFM
Figure 3.0a
Feedback Loop Maintains Constant Cantilever Deflection
Contact mode AFM operates by scanning a tip attached to the end of a cantilever across the sample
surface while monitoring the change in cantilever deflection with a split photodiode detector. The
tip contacts the surface through the adsorbed fluid layer on the sample surface.
A feedback loop maintains a constant deflection between the cantilever and the sample by
vertically moving the scanner at each (x,y) data point to maintain a “setpoint” deflection. By
maintaining a constant cantilever deflection, the force between the tip and the sample remains
constant.