User`s guide

MAC III Mode 11
Agilent 5500 SPM User’s Guide 172
automatically adjust parameters to appropriate values. The changes will
also be visible in the Advanced AC Mode property sheet.
In this section we will describe the simplified controls for each mode.
Contact Mode
Contact mode does not require any MAC III-specific controls.
AC AFM
In AC mode the drive signal can be provided by either the Head
Electronics Box or the MAC III controller. To use the MAC III
controller as the AC source choose Controls > Setup > Options, then
select the Serial Port AC Mode Controller check box. The system will
now use the drive signal from the MAC III controller, through the HEB
to the microscope. Whenever the MAC III controller is connected, this
option should be selected to ensure proper operation.
AC Mode monitors and controls the oscillation amplitude of the
cantilever. Choosing Control > AC Mode opens the ACAFM Controls
window:
Figure 117 ACAFM Controls window
In AC Mode, Lock-in 1 is enabled by default, providing an oscillating
signal to drive the cantilever. The Deflection channel is selected as the
input for Lock-in 1 during laser and detector alignment. When an
approach is initiated, the input automatically switches to Amplitude.