2009 R&D 100 Winner
The SOLVER Next from NT-MDT Company, Zelenograd, Moscow, Russia, is one of a new generation of automated scanning probe microscopes (SPM). It differs from other SPMs in that it offers both atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) capabilities in a single, automatically exchangeable platform. While competitive devices require that the heads or scanners be changed to move from AFM to STM, the SOLVER Next transitions to a new function by automatically focusing and aligning the existing head, saving time and effort. Sequential AFM/STM analysis of exactly the same location on the sample is also possible: no relocation of the area of interest is necessary. Similarly, large scans can quickly revert to atomic resolution; full environmental control is maintained for temperature, humidity, and gas type.
Technology
Automated scanning probe microscope
Developer
NT-MDT Company
