摘要 |
A probe detection system (74) for use with a scanning probe microscope comprises both a height detection system (88) and deflection detection system (28). As a sample surface is scanned, light reflected from a microscopeprobe (16) is separated into two components. Afirstcomponent (84) is analysed by thedeflection detection system (28) and is used in a feedback systemthatmaintainsthe average probe deflection substantially constant during the scan. The second component (86) is analysed by the height detection system (88) from which an indication of the heightof the probe above a fixed reference point, and thereby an image of the sample surface, is obtained. Such a dual detection system is particularly suited for use in fast scanning applications in which thefeedback systemis unableto respond at the raterequired to adjust probe height betweenpixel positions. |