Hi. If you are using Any Peak Force mode, the gains are being set automatically as you scan. In tapping mode they will appear on the Scan Parameters list of values to change.
I would like to ask, is there any need to change the drive amplitude and amplitude set point when using tapping mode? I am quite new to AFM. I normally change these parameters but cannot seem to get consistent images most of the time. This is the first guide I've seen in which these parameters were not changed.
Typically, you can set it and forget it! When using tapping mode, the setpoint can be decreased on samples that require greater tapping force. If your probe is tending to come off the sample surface, you should increase the tapping force. Also, make sure you're using the best probe for the sample.
Hi Partho, It is always a good idea to check where the laser spot is in relation to the white light coming from the camera before you insert your sample or probe. Using a white strip of paper, place it in the optical head just above the probe holder. It should be just to the left of or near center. The white light is your general field of view, FOV, when observing the live image on the software "Setup" screen. If you insert a very reflective sample, such as a smooth metal like gold, you can then direct the laser spot to the end of your cantilever. Make certain your probe is in the FOV, then focus on the reflective sample. Sometimes bringing the probe close to the surface of the sample will help in seeing the laser spot. Then watch the SUM. It should increase as the reflection of the laser hits the position sensitive detector. If you continue to have issues, feel free to connect with me on Zoom. I will be happy to walk you through the process. Best regards, Diana
Why I can't find the integral gain and the proportional gain parameter ? (I use the mechanical properties mode)
Hi. If you are using Any Peak Force mode, the gains are being set automatically as you scan. In tapping mode they will appear on the Scan Parameters list of values to change.
@@EyringMaterialsCenter Thank you so much. 😃
I would like to ask, is there any need to change the drive amplitude and amplitude set point when using tapping mode? I am quite new to AFM. I normally change these parameters
but cannot seem to get consistent images most of the time. This is the first guide I've seen in which these parameters were not changed.
Typically, you can set it and forget it! When using tapping mode, the setpoint can be decreased on samples that require greater tapping force. If your probe is tending to come off the sample surface, you should increase the tapping force. Also, make sure you're using the best probe for the sample.
@@EyringMaterialsCenter So Ideally, I can match the trace and retrace by changing the proportional and integral gains as pointed out in the video?
@@darylldalayoan4880 yes that is the goal to get good images.
This is really helpful. Do you have any tips that can be followed to focus the instrument? I face hard time when i start that focus step. Thanks.
Hi Partho,
It is always a good idea to check where the laser spot is in relation to the white light coming from the camera before you insert your sample or probe. Using a white strip of paper, place it in the optical head just above the probe holder. It should be just to the left of or near center. The white light is your general field of view, FOV, when observing the live image on the software "Setup" screen. If you insert a very reflective sample, such as a smooth metal like gold, you can then direct the laser spot to the end of your cantilever. Make certain your probe is in the FOV, then focus on the reflective sample. Sometimes bringing the probe close to the surface of the sample will help in seeing the laser spot. Then watch the SUM. It should increase as the reflection of the laser hits the position sensitive detector. If you continue to have issues, feel free to connect with me on Zoom. I will be happy to walk you through the process. Best regards,
Diana
@@dianaconvey4527 Thank You very much !