Low-temperature force microscope with all-fiber interferometer

• Published in: Ultramicroscopy Vol. 42; no. B; pp. 1638 - 1646
• Main Authors: Albrecht, T.R., Grütter, P., Rugar, D., Smith, D.P.E.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Amsterdam Elsevier B.V 1992; Elsevier Science
• Subjects: Exact sciences and technology; Instruments, apparatus, components and techniques common to several branches of physics and astronomy; Other topics in instruments, apparatus, components and techniques common to several branches of physics and astronomy; Physics; Force microscopy
• ISSN: 0304-3991; 1879-2723
• DOI: 10.1016/0304-3991(92)90498-9

A low-temperature force microscope has been demonstrated which is suitable for both repulsive and attractive mode (including magnetic) imaging. This instrument uses microfabricated cantilevers and an all-fiber interferometer for remote sensing of cantilever deflection. The all-fiber interferometer is ideal for remote sensing, since the only connection between the microscope and the outside environment is a single optical fiber. This allows all electronic components to operate at room temperature far from the mechanical portion of the microscope. The microscope mechanics are enclosed in a cylindrical vacuum chamber which is inserted into a helium storage Dewar for refrigiration. The sample holder is fitted with either a superconducting magnet capable of 200 Oe or a permanent magnet for higher fields. The instrument has been used successfully for topographic imaging and magnetic force gradient imaging at 5 and 300 K. An appendix to this paper gives practical information for constructing the all-fiber interferometer.