AFMWorkshop – On-Site AFM Installation And Training

For those AFMWorkshop customers electing On-Site Installation & Training on their AFM, vs. the Assembly and Training program at the AFMWorkshop facility, AFMWorkshop has designed a set of procedures to facilitate optimal installation and function of your new AFM.

Once the new AFMWorkshop AFM is received at your facility, an authorized AFMWorkshop customer service engineer travels to your facility to install the AFM and to train your AFM users on the particular model’s operative techniques.

AFMWorkshop’s on-site training is designed for up to two designated operators of the AFM. These operators are then designated as the primary contact points between AFMWorkshop and the customer’s institution. During the installation and training visit, the focus is on training customers how to make optimal images of standard samples, not on specific applications. We find that this approach yields the best results for future success with the AFM. (If your facility’s AFM operators are interested in continuing their training on specific applications, AFMWorkshop offers five-day advanced applications workshops throughout the year.)

Day 1

The objective is to set up the AFM and ensure it is operating to factory specifications. The AFM’s proposed location is reviewed and remedies to any potential negative ambient impacts on the AFM’s performance are discussed.

Unpack AFM
Set up AFM
Evaluate AFM site for acoustic and structural vibrations
Verify system specifications

Day 2

The objective is to train up to two operators on the skills required to operate the AFM and to make images of standard samples. Skills reviewed include:

Changing samples
Changing probes
Aligning the light lever
Positioning the photo-detector
Selecting resonance (vibrating mode only)
Tip approach
Scanning
Optimizing GPID
High resolution scanning on the AFMWorkshop product

The final component to the AFMWorkshop On-Site Installation and Training is the preparation of a service installation report, completed and signed by both the installation engineer and the customer at the end of Day 2. This report verifies that the instrument is properly functioning and/or makes note of any problems that may need further attention. After the installation, follow-up questions should be primarily directed to the AFMWorkshop service engineer who performed the installation, and come through one of your facility’s two designated AFM users receiving the training.

AFMWorkshop covers all travel costs as well as room and board for the customer service engineer. We request a minimum of two weeks advance notice to schedule the installation.

To learn more about our AFM Installation Training programs, feel free to visit www.afmworkshop.com.

Nanoparticle Characterization With Atomic Force Microscopy

Two day course focusing on atomic force microscopy for nanoparticle characterization. Participants will learn an overview of AFM hardware and software, as well as imaging and data analysis techniques specific to nanoparticle characterization. Lab work mixed with coursework gives students hands-on experience using AFM to measure the properties of nanoparticles.

Atomic Force Microscopy to Characterize Nanoparticles

Two Day Training Course

The Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) allows for 3D characterization of nanoparticles with sub-nanometer resolution. Nanoparticle characterization using Atomic Force Microscopy has a number of advantages over dynamic light scattering, electron microscopy and optical characterization methods. The AFM provides powerful information on size, distribution, and geometries of nanoparticles.

Some of the unique advantages of nanoparticle characterization with an AFM include:

-Characterization of nanoparticles that are .5nm and up.
-Nanoparticle mixture distributions below 30 nm.
-Characterization of variable geometry nanoparticles.
-Direct visualization of hydrated nanoparticles/liquid medium.
-Characterization of nanoparticle physical properties such as magnetic fields.

This two day AFMWorkshop course mixes lecture with labwork on atomic force microscopy operation specifically as it applies to characterizing nanoparticles. AFM hardware and software will be reviewed, with special emphasis on the imaging modes and image processing needed to study nanoparticles. We will utilize AFMs from AFMWorkshop to teach basic concepts and demonstrate AFM operation, however attendees with experience on any make of AFM instrument will find the labwork relevant and practical.

Topics to Be Covered:

-Overview of AFM operation and different modes Topography measurements on nanoparticles.
-Nanoscale resolution
-Overview of AFM hardware
-Overview of AFM software
-Imaging modes for nanoparticles
-Imaging artifacts and best practices
-Image processing for important measurements on nanoparticles

Labwork:

-Scanning standard and reference samples.
-Nanoparticle imaging and image processing.
-AFM calibration

Interested in participating of our workshops?

To learn more about Atomic Force Microscopes Training, feel free to visit www.afmworkshop.com.

Features of Table Top Atomic Force Microscope

This compact, second generation high resolution tabletop Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) 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.

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.

Light 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.

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.

The TT-2 AFM meets a wide variety of applications. More details on the use of the TT-2 AFM for educators, industry, and research can be found by clicking on www.afmworkshop.com or call at (888)671-5539 any queries.

AFMWorkshop Offers Instrumentation and Training Materials to Educational Groups

One of our most popular instruments used in university settings is the TT-AFM. Because the TT-AFM is similar to 99% of the Atomic Force Microscopes used in research labs throughout the world, students can use skills developed on the TT-AFM to operate AFMs with more complex instrumentation.

On a TT-AFM, students learn how to operate all of the key modes such as contact, vibrating, lateral force, and phase modes. For example, the TT-AFM and AFMWorkshop was selected as instrument and trainer of choice by Hiroshi Yokoyama, Ph.D., director of Kent State University’s Glenn H. Brown Liquid Crystal Institute.

AFMWorkshop can work with your institution to create your own optimal training program.

AFM Training Programs

TT-2 Assembly Workshop

The ultimate in comprehensive knowledge of Atomic Force Microscope design and function can be gained through AFMWorkshop’s TT-AFM Assembly Workshop. Participants build their own AFM and participate in numerous workshops on AFM theory, operation, and applications. Attendees learn the components of an Atomic Force Microscope, how an AFM operates, key AFM design points, light lever design, scanner design/construction, and how to maximize image signal-to-noise ratio.

AFM Applications Workshop

AFMWorkshop’s five-day AFM Applications Workshop provides access to an AFM for each attendee for extensive hands-on labs. Participants spend time in group lectures on the theory of Atomic Force Microscopy, and put theory into practice by preparing and measuring images for a wide variety of metallurgic and life sciences samples. Participants have time for expert guidance in troubleshooting their particular applications.

For more information on creating a tailored workshop to meet your students’ needs, please contact AFMWorkshop.

Free Atomic Force Microscopy Webinars

AFMWorkshop provides a series of free live-streaming seminars for educators and professionals. Key skills to help all AFM users’ gain the most from their AFM are covered, including effective utilization of image processing software, techniques for successful sample preparation, detecting artifacts, and selecting the right probes. To view pre-recorded webinars, visit the AFMWorkshop Webinar Page.

Animated AFM Tutorials

Learning how an atomic force microscope works is an essential part of proper AFM training. AFMWorkshop provides a series of animations that illuminate key operating principles and efficiently introduce new users to Atomic Force Microscopes.

While minimal training is needed to measure basic AFM images, gaining optimal performance requires greater insight into the operating principles and design of atomic force microscopes. This depth of understanding is especially necessary when users need to measure high-quality images with only a few angstroms of resolution.

Concepts essential to understanding how to optimize AFM performance, such as the design of piezoelectric scanners, light lever design, probe sample interactions, and feedback control can be readily understood by the AFM user and are clearly illustrated in the AFMWorkshop Animated.

AFM Tutorials

Our tutorials act as a starting point for anyone interested in learning about the theory and operation of atomic force microscopes. For example, in the section of animations describing the “Design of the Light Lever AFM,” we:

First show that a photodetector can convert photons to electrical energy;
Then demonstrate how 2 photodetectors are used to create a position-sensitive detector;
Finally show how the motion of a cantilever is measured with a light lever.

Researchers, educators, and students around the globe have voiced their appreciation for the unique and immediately useful knowledge communicated through the AFMWorkshop animated tutorials.

Atomic Force Microscopy Textbook

The book Atomic Force Microscopy, written by Dr. Peter Eaton and Paul West and published by Oxford University Press, is available from Amazon.com, or Oxford University Press. Atomic Force Microscopy has become the leading text for AFM education and is a great resource for both professionals and students.

Presentations

AFMWorkshop customers have access to a complete library of PowerPoint® presentations, including over 500 slides on subjects ranging from AFM image analysis, instrument design, quantitative AFM measurements, and Atomic Force Microscope image artefacts. These presentations may be used for teaching courses to undergraduate and graduate students. Additionally, a trained instructor from the AFMWorkshop is available to lead a three day course derived from these PowerPoint® presentations.

Training for AFM Success

Pick up any scientific journal or click through a website and you’ll see beautiful images produced by scientists and engineers on atomic force microscopes. What’s not so easy to see is the amount of time and effort that went into producing these amazing images.

Training, education, and time on the instrument are the keys to successful AFM imaging. Although basic operation of the instrument is straightforward, acquiring beautiful nano-scale images like those seen in scientific publications requires theoretical knowledge as well as actual practice time on the instrument.

AFMWorkshop is committed to helping our customers develop the strong AFM skill sets necessary to produce world-class AFM images.

To learn more about uses of Atomic Force Microscopy for Education, feel free to visit www.afmworkshop.com.

Uses of Atomic Force Microscope in Life Sciences Applications

Do you think it’s not possible to measure biological samples on nano scale? Actually, Atomic force microscopes are capable of making measurements on biological samples at the nanoscale that are difficult or even impossible with any other type of microscope. AFM allows the nanoscale imaging of soft biomaterials including cells and DNA in both ambient atmospheric conditions as well as liquid environments, Examples of biology applications which are unique to atomic force microscopes are as follows.

Imaging Biomolecules

Atomic force microscopes are the only microscopes capable of imaging bio-molecules in ambient air as well as liquids.

Double-stranded DNA Molecules

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)

Imaging of viruses is commonly carried out in structural studies. In addition, TMV is commonly used as an imaging standard since it has a highly conserved structure. Imaging high aspect ratio samples also helps to characterize tip sharpness.

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, the capability to scan with very light forces, and placement of the microscope in an environment with minimal structural and acoustic vibrations.

Proper sample preparation is another critical factor. Sample preparation techniques are described in Atomic Force Microscopy by Eaton and West.

Imaging Сells

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.

Parasites

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

Measurement of high resolution images of cells in 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.

Bacteria Spore Mutants

The ability to image a very large number of cells, allows the researcher to obtain statistically relevant information about a population of cells. Images of multiple cells can be also useful to assess inter-cellular effects, such as clustering and adhesion.

The inverted optical microscope facilitates direct placement of the probe on an area of interest for scanning. Additionally the inverted microscope can be operated in epifluorescence mode.

Are you looking for a microscope that fulfills all your research needs? If yes, then choose AFMWorkshop to buy Atomic Force Microscopes. AFMWorkshop is a renowned name in atomic force microscope manufacturers; they offer a wide variety of Atomic Force Microscopes (AFM’s) to suit every research needs.

For more information, feel free to visit https://www.afmworkshop.com.

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.

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/.

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.

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.

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: