Calibration, Maintenance, Troubleshooting and Warranty
TappingMode AFM Troubleshooting
320
MultiMode SPM Instruction Manual
Rev. B
Figure 15.12a
Images With/Without Streaks
15.12.2
Lines across the image
Lines oriented in the fast scan direction can be caused by the tip sticking to the surface. This
condition may be remedied by increasing the RMS voltage. Working with a larger RMS has the
effect of giving the tip more energy to pull off of the surface. To correct this condition, try the
following approach:
1. Use arrow keys (p) to increment the
Setpoint
voltage positively. Do this while monitoring
the
Z Center Position
voltage on the display monitor. Increase the Setpoint voltage until the
Z Center Position
voltage jumps to the fully retracted position.
2. Note the current
Setpoint
voltage value. This value is just slightly greater than the RMS
voltage currently used.
3. Increase the Setpoint voltage another 2V.
4. Use arrow keys to increase the
Drive amplitude
(press 2-3 times). This will increase the
RMS voltage output from the microscope. (Increasing the RMS voltage means the cantilever
is oscillated harder, making it less subject to capture by a sticky surface.)
5. Use arrow keys to reduce the Setpoint voltage until the
Z Center Position
voltage begins to
move away from the retracted position. Continue to reduce the Setpoint voltage until the
topographic image on the display monitor “pops” into clear view.
021
022
With Streaks
Without Streaks