 |
|
| The PLLPro is more than a high-performance universal AFM controller. It’s an open, modular, and multifunctional experimental platform: |
| |
|
|
| A contact and a non-contact AFM controller bundled as one, the PLLPro can simultaneously measure STM, static AFM deflection, and the oscillation properties of the resonating cantilever. Its fully-digital PLL circuit |
|
 |
performs amplitude and phase detection, and a DSP processor calculates the drive amplitude and PLL tracking signals. The user can select in software which data channel the microscope will use for z-feedback control. Multiple power supplies are provided to power external circuitry such as preamplifiers, interferometers, laser diode supplies,etc.
Every possible device element of the PLLPro has been made programmable for the user, providing limitless avenues for modification and upgrades. The modular structure of the hardware and software design, with functional component grouping, facilitates custom user scripting. RHK has also engineered the PLLPro to be upgradeable in hardware. From the control software the user can download updates for the actual controller hardware and for the field programmable gate array (FPGA) chips, which we use extensively in the electronics. Always forward-thinking in its design and engineering, RHK implemented user customization and alterable hardware code into the PLLPro to insure that the state-of-the-art technology you buy today will be only more sophisticated and feature-filled with time.
Engineering Commitment
Drawing on two decades of leadership in SPM and control engineering, RHK has earned a name by never compromising on quality or performance, and by never jeopardizing your discoveries with generic, standard-grade parts. Instead, we custom design end-to-end specific-use components that meet the high benchmarks of serious SPM science. That’s why advanced researchers around the world continue to trust our growing family of scientists and engineers to build the finest in specialized microscopy and controller systems. |
|
|
• |
Open source scripting language for controller and front-end |
| |
|
• |
21 rear-panel BNCs for signals: |
| |
- |
4 simultaneous analog data outputs
(1 feedback and 3 user-defined) |
| |
- |
2 user-defined analog input channels
(8 signals available to each) |
| |
- |
6 diagnostic outputs |
| |
- |
2 current signals for CAFM/STM |
| |
- |
Probe drive output |
| |
- |
Probe drive amplitude modulation input |
| |
- |
Probe drive offset modulation input |
| |
- |
Preamp and bias inputs |
• |
Position Sensitive Detector Interface Module: (fig. 1)
This module is used with AFMs utilizing a PSD-based detection system. Connected between the output of the PSD’s four channel I/V converter (sold separately) and the PLLpro, all contact and non-contact AFM measurement modes are made available. |
|
| |
- |
Calculates normal and lateral force and
total signal for PSD
four quadrants |
| |
- |
Two auxiliary input connectors |
| |
- |
Probe drive interface |
| |
- |
Interconnecting cables |
|
| |
|
• |
PSD four channel I/V converter: (fig. 2)
A low noise preamplifier that plugs directly into a UHV feedthrough. Connects between the PSD and the PSD interface module. Handles cantilevers with resonant frequencies up
to 3 MHz. |
|
| |
|
|
