The PScan2™ SPM Controller

Our unique system combines the convenience of a Windows™ user interface with real-time control of microscope operations through an Ethernet connection. No more expensive DSP boards that may become obsolete tomorrow!

Because of its unique design, the PScan2™ controller is ideally suited for developing advanced probe microscope instrumentation including atomic force, scanning tunneling and near field optical microscopes.
The PScan2™ controller is appropriate for use by instrument companies that want to create their own scanning probe microscope products or as an add-on feature to an existing product.

The hardware in the PScan2™ is designed for maximum speed and flexibility. All high voltage signals are isolated from digital signals for optimal low noise performance. Functions supported by the PScan2™ controller include:

X-Y Raster:
Support is provided for tripod scanners with or without external linearization. Tube scanners can be controlled with the optional high voltage board.

Z Feedback:
A digitally controlled high speed analog PID controller optimizes the control of the Z feedback loop in all scanning probe instruments. Force/distance curves are also possible by disabling the Z feedback control.

Modulation:
An internal 32-bit sinusoidal function generator and amplitude detector are available for techniques such as non-contact FM and shear force NSOM measurements.

Sensor inputs:
Support is provided for 4 quadrant photo-detectors used in most AFM heads. Additionally, the sensor output from STM and NSOM heads can be directly input into the PScan2™ controller.

Motor Controls:
For Z approach, both DC and stepper motor controllers are available. Additionally, seven stepper motor controllers are available for sample stages and other control functions.

Head Support:
Flags and control lines are available for turning lasers on and off in AFM heads and monitoring feedback signals.

Digitally Programmed Analog Output:
For creating new applications such as electrochemistry, two additional 12 bit analog outputs are provided.

Additional I/O Support:
Additional I/O support is available through a 16 bit TTL bus. This bus can be used for additional ADC or DAC's to the PScan2™ controller.