Origin AFM Lowering the Head

NOTE: Make sure the AFM Head is level prior to continuing.

1. Open the enclosure door.
2. Use the X/Y Stage knobs to position the specimen directly under the cantilever.
3. Click the Engage button in the Sum and Deflection Panel.
4. Turn all 3 leg wheels to lower the AFM Head down. Try to keep the AFM Head level while lowering.
5. Watch the video monitor as you lower the head.
   
   1. The specimen will come into focus. This is a good indication to slow down.
   2. A shadow outline of the cantilever will appear, and it will go away as it approaches the surface.
   3. The Amplitude in the Sum and Deflection Panel will also drop when the tip gets close enough to the surface.
6. STOP when the computer beeps.
7. Use the Front Leg Wheel to adjust the Z Voltage (in Sum and Deflection Panel) to ≈ 70 V. The value will fluctuate rapidly, so make small adjustments and wait before adjusting again.
8. Click Withdraw in the Sum and Deflection Panel.
9. Use the X/Y Stage knobs to move around the specimen and locate the area of interest. If the specimen has large height differences, raise the AFM head prior to moving around the specimen. You can use the Focus Wheel to bring the surface into focus while the head is raised.
10. After locating the area of interest, bring the focus back to the cantilever and repeat Steps 3-8 to lower the AFM Head back down.
11. Click Engage in the Sum and Deflection Panel, double check that the Z Voltage is ≈ 70 V. If not, use the Front Leg Wheel to adjust.
12. Click Withdraw in the Sum and Deflection Panel.
13. Close and lock the door to the AFM enclosure.

AC Air Operation: Image Acquisition