Patent ID: 6608307
Filing Date: 2003-08-19
Classification: B82Y,G01Q,H01J,Y10S

Abstract:
In a scanning probe microscope (SPM), a method of stabilization in real time of the gap separating probe tip and sample in at least two intersecting axes, at least one of said at least two intersecting axes being substantially non-parallel to the scan pattern of said SPM, said method providing supplemental movement in said at least two intersecting axes to said probe tip to offset drift motion of said probe tip relative to said sample, said method comprising the steps of:a. applying a first supplemental signal which provides supplemental movement in a first axis of said at least two intersecting axes to said probe tip in conjunction with a first positioning signal in said first axis of said at least two intersecting axes; and b. applying a second supplemental signal which provides supplemental movement in a second axis of said at least two intersecting axes to said probe tip in conjunction with a second positioning signal in said second axis of said at least two intersecting axes; wherein said steps of applying a first supplemental signal and applying a second supplemental signal include providing supplemental signals which provide a controlled movement of said probe tip that offsets drift motion of said probe tip relative to said sample in said at least two intersecting axes; and wherein said supplemental signals are determined in response to a topographic signal.