Stand Alone AFM Head

Building the "stand alone" scanner is relatively simple but does require access to a machine shop to build or modify the parts that support the AFM scanner.

Mechanics: You can purchase and modify a horseshoe holder from Pacific Nanotechnology. However, you can design your own horseshoe holder with a specific footprint for the motor and thumb screws. Next, mount the motor (requires an adapter if you use the Pacific Nanotechnology horseshoe) and thumb screws into the horseshoe.

Electronics: Connect the hall effect position sensors and motor leads to wires and connectors that plug into the stage interface board at the rear of the AFM microscope. Schematics for these parts are located in the user manual for the PNI stages.

Software: Using the X'pert™ mode software, select the correct direction for the Z approach motor.