Introduction To The Tt-Afm; Computer; Stage; Ebox - AFM Workshop TT-AFM User Manual

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2. Introduction to the TT-AFM
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When fully assembled, the TT-AFM comprises four sub-units. They are
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the control computer, the EBox, the stage and the video optical
microscope.
2.1. Computer
The control computer is a standard IBM/PC-type computer with a
Microsoft Windows operating system. There are two programs required
to operate the TT-AFM: the first is the AFM control software and the
second is the software for the color CCO camera.
2.2. Stage
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Samples are held and scanned in the AFM stage. On the upright inside
the stage is a linear translator which moves the LL-AFM sensor in a
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vertical direction. Also in the stage is the light lever force sensor,
precision x-y stage and the piezoelectric scanner. Samples are held
magnetically on a 1" diameter plate at the top of the piezoelectric
scanner.
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Optimal images are measured with the AFM stage if it is in a vibration­
and acoustic-free environment. If necessary, a vibration and acoustic
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isolation system should be used. Appendix A provides more information
on the best location for the AFM stage.
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At the front left of the stage is a "modes" connector. Signals reqUired for
implementing additional modes such as conductive AFM, STM and
EFM are provided. Additional information on the cable configuration is
provided in Appendix C.
2.3. EBox
The EBox sends and receives signals from the computer through a
single USB cable. Electronic signals are then sent to the stage trough a
60-pin ribbon cable. Additionally, a grounding cable is connected
between the stage and the EBox. All cables are connected at the rear
uf lilt:: CDUX. Dt::siues [he coole
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[he stage, there is a plug for an
auxiliary 50-pin cable that gives access to the EBox's internal electronic
signals. Appendix C provides additional information regarding the
cables.
2.4. Video Optical Microscope
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Aligning the light lever force sensor is greatly facilitated by the aid of
the video optical microscope. Also, the video microscope can help
locate features on a surface for scanning. Finally, a tip approach can be
undertaken much more rapidly with the aid of the video microscope.
Images from the video microscope are displayed on a computers' video
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monitor.
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Figure 2.1. TT-AFM stage combined
with the video microscope in rear
mode
FigtJre 2 2 Front view of the TT-AFM
EBox showing the indicator lights
Figure 2.3. Video microscope
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