Patent ID: 7230699
Filing Date: 2007-06-12
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method of calibration involving orientating a monitored location on a sample, said sample being characterized by: it has surface irregularities, or it is small in dimension; comprising the steps of: a) providing a stage for supporting a sample, said stage having means for effecting translation in any of said “X”, “Y” and “Z” directions as well as rotation about said “X”, “Y” and optionally “Z” axes; b) placing a sample characterized by a selection from the group consisting of: onto surface onto said stage; c) causing an interrogating beam of electromagnetic radiation to impinge on said monitored location on said sample; d) monitoring the effect of “X” and “Y” direction translation on the locus of reflected beam electromagnetic radiation from the surface said sample and if either said translation causes significant change therein practicing step e, and if neither said translation causes significant change therein terminating the practice of said method; e) adjusting rotation of said stage about at least one of the “X” and “Y” directions and again practicing step d.