Why Use Atomic Force Microscopes to Make Measurements on Biological Samples

Atomic force microscopes are well suited for making measurements on biological samples at the nanoscale in ambient air and in liquids.

Atomic force microscopy has a particular advantage over electron microscopy, in that cells and biomaterials can be imaged in partially or totally hydrated conditions including ambient air and liquid environments.

Recommended AFM products for life sciences applications are TT-2 Atomic Force Microscope and LS-Atomic Force Microscope.

Just have a look at some of these biological applications:

Double-stranded DNA Molecules

Using atomic force microscopes, imaging of DNA of size 5 µm x 5 µm can be done easily. Imaging of oligonucleotides can be used in a wide variety of applications, notably in structural studies, and in the study of interactions between the oligonucleotides and other molecules, such as enzymes.

Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV)

In structural studies, imaging of Tobacco Mosaic Virus is commonly carried out. Such high-resolution imaging requires an instrument noise floor of less than 0.1nm, a good tip approach leading to the maintenance of a sharp tip, placement of the microscope in an environment with minimal structural, the capability to scan with very light forces and acoustic vibrations. Furthermore, TMV is commonly used as an imaging standard since it has a highly conserved structure.

Parasites

In the air, Parasites of size 25 µm x 25µm can be measured using AFM. These Leishmania cells have been treated with an antimicrobial peptide, leading to highly roughened cell membranes, which can be measured and quantified by AFM.

Epithelial Cells

Using an Atomic Force Microscope, Epithelial cell of size 32 µm x 32 µm can be measured in liquid. Measurement of high-resolution images of cells in a liquid (e.g., under physiological conditions) is another possibility unique to AFM and can give much more relevant results than electron microscopy, which requires cell fixation, leading to artifacts.

If you want to buy high-quality Atomic Force Microscope, feel free to visit https://www.afmworkshop.com/.

Table Top Atomic Force Microscope for Demanding Applications

TT-2 AFM is a compact, second generation high resolution tabletop Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). It has all the important features and benefits expected from a light lever AFM. The TT-2 AFM includes a stage, control electronics, probes, manuals, and a video microscope.

Applications

Research

With over 200 TT-2 AFMs in laboratories throughout the world, researchers have published 100s of publications in all types of science and engineering journals.

Instrument Innovators

The TT-2 AFM serves as an ideal platform for creating new and innovative instruments. AFMWorkshop facilitates instrument innovation with an open architecture.

Education

With its open design the TT-2 is ideal for colleges and universities that teach students about AFM design, applications, and operation.

Key Features and Benefits of the TT-2 AFM

Low Noise Floor

With a noise floor <80 picometers, the TT-2 AFM is capable of measuring samples with features from nano-meters to microns.

Direct Drive Tip Approach

A linear motion stage moves the probe relative to the sample. The probe sample angle does not change, and samples of many thicknesses are readily scanned.

Research Grade Video Optical Microscope

With a mechanical 7:1 zoom and a resolution of 2 µm, the video optical microscope facilitates locating features, tip approach, and laser alignment.

Multiple Scanners

Linearized piezoelectric scanners with several ranges are available to optimize scanning conditions.

LabView Software

The TT-2 uses industry standard lab view software. For customization, the systems VI’s are readily available.

Modular Design

Once you buy the TT-2 AFM you can add options and modes such as focus assist, image logger, lithography and liquid scanning when you are ready.

Simple Probe Exchange

With the removable probe holder, exchanging probes is simple, and takes less than a minute.

Ligh Lever Large Adjustment Range

Because the TT-2 has a large adjustment range on the laser and photodetector, probes from all major manufacturers can be used.

To learn more, feel free to visit https://www.afmworkshop.com/.

AFMWorkshop Atomic Force Microscope Probes

Where Atomic Force Microscopy Probes are used? Atomic Force Microscopy Probes are used for all atomic force microscope applications, and are operated in vibrating (tapping), non-vibrating (contact), lithography, conductive and magnetic AFM, as well as force-distance scanning.

AFMWorkshop offers AFM probes from the largest international probe manufacturers at discounted prices. These probes are available to US customers that own AFMWorkshop products only. AFM Probes are nanofabricated using highly-doped single crystal silicon with unparalleled reproducibility, robustness, and sharpness, giving consistent high-quality AFM images.

ACLA AFM Probes

ACLA AFM Probes are designed for vibrating mode (non-contact, tapping mode, intermittent contact, and/or close contact) applications. Compatible with most commercially available SPMs/AFMs, ACLA probes are nanofabricated using highly doped single crystal silicon with unparalleled reproducibility, robustness and sharpness for consistent high-resolution imaging capabilities. This is a box of 10 probes.

SHOCONA Probes

SHOCONA Probes are designed for non-vibrating, contact mode applications and are compatible with most commercially available SPMs/AFMs. These probes are nanofabricated using highly doped single crystal silicon with unparalleled reproducibility, robustness and sharpness for consistent high resolution imaging capabilities. This is a box of 10 probes.

For a more in-depth understanding of how AFM probes work, as well as some helpful AFM tips and pointers, you can get in touch with experts of AFMWorkshop. At a fraction of the cost of other AFM manufacturers, AFMWorkshop is the only option for high-value atomic force microscopy. They provide a closer look at their AFMs, including full demonstrations, introductory AFM videos and more.

AFMWorkshop designed the free Atomic Force Microscopy animated tutorials to help students and professionals learn AFM technology and how an Atomic Force Microscope works. They offer multiple AFM courses and AFM training opportunities: from building your own Atomic Force Microscope to learning advanced techniques and applications.

Vibration Solution Products to Avoid Fuzzy AFM Images

AFMs are quite susceptible to external vibrations, structural vibartions are transmitted through a building structure and acoustic vibrations are transmitted through air. Both acoustic and structural vibrations degrade the resolution and overall performance of an Atomic Force Microscope.

External vibration can degrade the resolution of scans by adding extra noise. Atomic force microscope vibration solutions offer a way to reduce external vibration that often causes fuzzy AFM images. To reduce external vibrations and obtain the highest-quality AFM images, particularly for high-resolution scanning, AFMWorkshop has designed a variety of proven options for vibration isolation including vibration tables, vibration enclosures, bungee options, and even custom/OEM enclosures.

Vibration Isolation filters out unwanted acoustic structural vibrations that interfere with high-resolution scanning. Acoustic vibrations are reduced by placing the microscope in an acoustic isolation chamber. Structural vibrations are reduced by using a mechanical isolation platform.

Below are some vibration solution products offered by AFMWorkshop:
– Passive Vibration Table
Passive Vibration Table is a moderate Vibration solution when ultimate AFM Performance is not necessary.
– Active Vibration Table
An Active Vibration Table uses a feedback control method for removing vibrations for a better quality of scans.
– Acoustic Cabinet
An acoustic cabinet reduces unwanted vibrations transmitted through air.
– Custom OEM vibration enclosure
Customized (OEM) Vibration enclosure is a scalable vibration solution for any Atomic Force Microscopy System.
–Bungee Option
A Bungee Option is a relatively cost-effective method for reducing unwanted structural vibrations and improving the quality of AFM Image.

Looking for the best atomic force microscope vibration solutions? If yes, feel free to get in touch with AFMWorkshop or visit https://www.afmworkshop.com/.

Important Features of the B-AFM

Are you planning to buy the best quality B-AFM? If yes, then get in touch with AFMWorkshop.

B-AFM offered by AFMWorkshop is the ideal option for scientists with bigger ideas because of genuine pricing. User-Friendly design makes the B-AFM best for teaching the basics of AFM theory and operation to the students. The B-AFM is designed to obtain AFM images without expertise.

AFMWorkshop provides a 100% money-back guarantee and if their AFMs can’t run your application, they will refund the full purchase price. The complete B-AFM system includes the AFM stage, electronics, enclosure, computer and software.

Some of the features of the B-AFM are:

Sample Stage

The sample stage has an XY translation range of 6 mm X 6 mm and is used to select an area of interest on a sample for scanning. The controls for the positioner are conveniently located on the surface of the B-AFM stage, and the magnetic sample holder makes exchanging samples easy and intuitive.

Video Optical Microscope

For locating features on samples, aligning the light lever, and facilitating the probe approach, an LED video optical microscope is used. This optical microscope is all an AFM user needs to start scanning with 200X zoom, adjustable focus, and an LED illumination light.

Exchanging Samples

At the top of the piezoelectric stage, there is the magnetic sample holder that makes sample exchange a routine process. Samples are mounted onto metal disks and easily placed on the magnetic sample holder.

Enclosure

The front-opening enclosure of the B-AFM reduces both structural and acoustic vibrations that can affect the quality of AFM scans. It is made with high-density material and lined on the inside with noise-reducing foam.

Exchanging Probes

There is a removable probe holder with a spring action clamp that allows probe exchange to be done easily within one minute. A probe holder support is provided to store the probe holder when it is not in the AFM.

To buy the best quality product, feel free to visit https://www.afmworkshop.com/.

AFMWorkshop – A leading manufacturer for high value atomic force microscope

Being considered the leading manufacturer for high-value atomic force microscopes, AFMWorkshop works to design and manufacture high quality atomic force microscopes. Apart from this, it provides fundamental training to the customers. It ensures that the AFMs will run the application and in addition to this, the customer service provided by them is always there to help.

Looking for an atomic force microscope for research instruments? AFMWorkshop offers TT-2 AFM that includes an open architecture with unsurpassed flexibility. If you need a microscope for soft samples and biomaterials, LS-AFM is there for you at AFMWorkshop. Besides, if you are searching for a microscope for routine scanning and educational purposes, go for the newest model B-AFM.

AFMWorkshop offers in-house workshops as well as on-site training for each of their customers. They also offer tutorials on the website explaining the basic function of an atomic force microscope, as well as videos and webinars for further education. They ensure that their customers are fully prepared to operate their AFM successfully.

Being one of the confident atomic force microscope
companies, AFMWorkshop ensures customer satisfaction. Additionally, it builds AFMs with price and resolution in mind in order to increase the accessibility of AFMs. Believe it or not, atomic force microscope education is important as it helps students to get exposed to an atomic force microscope by showing them what an AFM looks like and how it operates. I0t helps to prepare students for a career in instrumentation design or instrument customer service. This is accomplished in part by helping students understand the design and construction of an Atomic Force Microscope. This group may include an additional category of researchers who intend to modify or repair their own instruments.

Struggling to find the best atomic force microscope manufacturer? Look no further with AFMWorkshop. To learn more, feel free to visit https://www.afmworkshop.com.

AFM Vibration Isolation Solution: Active Vibration Table

Atomic Force Microscopes which are quite susceptible to external vibrations, are able to measure topographic images at resolutions below 0.1 nanometers. The external vibrations need to be reduced in order to obtain the highest-quality AFM images, particularly for high-resolution scanning.

Both acoustic and and structural vibrations degrade the resolution and overall performance of Atomic Force Microscopy Instrumentation. The acoustic vibrations can be reduced by placing the microscope in an acoustic isolation chamber. On the other hand, structural vibrations can be reduced by using a mechanical isolation platform such as an active vibration table.

The vibration isolation tables are designed to provide stable working conditions for devices that are sensitive to vibration and shocks. The table consists of an outer table frame that supports the main work surface which is not isolated from vibration and an inner table frame that is entirely separate and supports the inner isolated work surface. This ensures vibrations are not transmitted to the isolated inner work surface. An Active Vibration Table uses a feedback control method for removing vibrations. An acceleration sensor measures vibrations and then electromechanical transducers use the output of the sensors to control the motion of the tabletop.

The advantage of an Active Vibration Table over the Bungee option is that the Vibration Isolation Tabletop is more stable than a platform suspended with bungee cords. Other equipment that provide vibration isolation include vibration enclosures, bungee options, and custom/OEM enclosures.

This being said, bungee solutions are often better for structural vibration reduction than active vibration tables.

AFMWorkshop is a leading Atomic force microscope manufacturing company in the USA and at the global market. Our customers range from researchers and engineers at high-profile institutions to educators in high schools and community colleges. Our atomic force microscopes have a modular and open design, simplifying education and training as well as allowing adjustments tailored to specific research. Feel free to visit https://www.afmworkshop.com/ for more information. You can also reach out to us via phone (1 (888) 671-5539) and email (info@afmworkshop.com).

How to Reduce External Vibrations

Acoustic and structural vibrations affect the resolution and overall performance of an Atomic Force Microscope. External vibration can degrade the resolution of scans by adding extra noise. Even though AFMs are quite susceptible to external vibrations, they can measure topographic data at resolutions below 0.1 nanometers in a normal laboratory environement.

Atomic force microscope vibration solutions offer a way to reduce external vibration that often causes fuzzy AFM images. To reduce external vibrations and obtain the highest-quality AFM images, particularly for high-resolution scanning, AFMWorkshop has designed a variety of proven options for vibration isolation including vibration tables, vibration enclosures, bungee options, and even custom/OEM enclosures. Vibration Isolation solutions filter out unwanted acoustic and structural vibrations that interfere with high-resolution scanning.

Acoustic vibrations are reduced by placing the microscope in an acoustic isolation chamber. Structural vibrations are reduced by using a mechanical isolation platform.

Have a look at the vibration solution products offered by AFMWorkshop:

Bungee Option

Bungee Option is a relatively cost-effective method for reducing unwanted structural vibrations and improving the quality of AFM Image.

The Bungee Option is used in the Acoustic Enclosure. Such combination allows a comparatively cost-effective way reducing structural mechanical vibrations and Acoustical noises and obtaining better quality AFM images.

Passive Vibration Table

Passive Vibration Table is moderate Vibration solution when ultimate AFM Performance is not necessary.

Active Vibration Table

An Active Vibration Table uses a feedback control method for removing vibrations for a better quality of scans.

Vibration Cabinet

Vibration isolation is essential for high-resolution AFM scanning. Vibrations from buildings, tables, and external vibration can affect the resolution of scans by adding extra noise. To further reduce vibration, it is recommended a vibration isolation cabinet.

Custom OEM vibration enclosure

Customized (OEM) Vibration enclosure is a scalable vibration solution for any Atomic Force Microscopy System.

For the best atomic force microscope vibration solutions, feel free to get in touch with AFMWorkshop or visit https://www.afmworkshop.com/.

What Are The Unique Features Of The B-AFM?

B-AFM is the ideal option for educators that want to train students about AFM because of affordable pricing. A user-Friendly design makes the B-AFM best for teaching the basics of AFM theory and operation to the students. The B-AFM is designed to obtain AFM images without much training.

The complete B-AFM system includes the AFM stage, electronics, enclosure, computer and software. Have a look at some of the features of the B-AFM:

Video Optical Microscope

Sample Stage

Enclosure

Exchanging Samples

Exchanging Probes

For the best quality B-AFM, get in touch with AFMWorkshop. They provide a 100% money-back guarantee and if their AFMs can’t run your application, they will refund the full purchase price.

To buy the best quality product, feel free to visit https://www.afmworkshop.com/.

LS-AFM for Life Science Applications

The LS- Atomic Force Microscope is designed specifically for life science applications when paired with an inverted optical microscope. This tip-scanning atomic force microscope includes everything required for AFM scanning: AFM stage, inverted optical microscope adaptation plate, EBox, manuals, cables, and AFM-Control Software.

Have a look at some of the features of LS-AFM:

A turnkey system with guaranteed results
No additional sample holding options required for most applications
Readily scan samples in ambient air and liquids
Zoom to feature with accurate positioning for F/D curves
Readily adaptable to new operating systems
Reduce time for probe exchange (& use any manufacturer’s probes)
Facilitates tip approach and laser alignment
Most common scanning modes included for life sciences applications

When an inverted optical microscope is required for locating cells or other bio-materials on a surface, the LS-AFM has a sample positoiner for glass slides and petri dishes. The LS-AFM can be purchased with the AFMWorkshop inverted optical microscope or it can be retrofitted to almost any inverted optical microscope.

LS-AFM APPLICATIONS

Measure the Stiffness of Biomaterials

LS-AFM can be used to monitor the deflection of a cantilever as it is pushed against sample resulting in a force/distance curve. From the force-distance curve, many parameters may be measured, such as stiffness of the sample and probe-sample adhesion.

Imaging Cells

Images of cells are easily scanned in both a liquid and dry environment with the LS-AFM. The inverted optical microscope facilitates direct placement of the probe on an area of interest for scanning.

The LS-AFM is a nanoscience instrument that‌ ‌may be purchased in two different configurations:

LS-AFM-A

In this configuration, AFMWorkshop fabricates a special plate that pairs the LS-AFM with the customer’s existing inverted optical microscope.

LS-AFM-B

This configuration of the LS-AFM includes a fully-featured inverted optical microscope.

Do you want to buy LS-AFMs? If yes, buy top quality LS-AFMs from AFMWorkshop. To learn more about the LS-AFM, feel free to visit https://www.afmworkshop.com.