Patent ID: 7284415
Filing Date: 2007-10-23
Classification: B82Y,G01Q

Abstract:
1. A scanning probe microscope comprising: a cantilever having a minute probe on a distal end thereof; displacement detecting means for detecting displacement of the cantilever; Z-axis controlling amount calculating means for calculating a controlling amount for keeping constant a displacement amount of the cantilever; Z-axis driving means for driving in a Z direction the cantilever or a sample in accordance with the controlling amount from the Z-axis controlling amount calculating means; XY scanning means for relatively moving the probe in a direction of an XY plane with respect to the sample to measure an uneven shape and/or a physical characteristic of the surface of the sample; storing means for storing the controlling amount outputted from the Z-axis controlling amount calculating means and a signal outputted from the displacement detecting means; controlling range limiting means for limiting a driving range of the Z-axis driving means; and controlling range setting means for optionally setting the driving range of the Z-axis driving means.