Open STM: A low-cost scanning tunneling microscope with a fast approach method.

ABSTRACT: In this study, we have developed an low-cost scanning tunneling microscope (STM) cost of 300 USD or 2000 CNY. The microscope is suitable for educational purposes and low-demand research imaging at the nanometer level. The microscope's motion components and scanner are controlled using piezoelectric materials, avoiding the thermal drift associated with traditional motor control. Our tip approach algorithm, which considers the capacitance and friction characteristics during piezoelectric slider movement, has reduced the time required for sample loading to establish tunneling current to approximately 1 min. The physical dimensions of the microscope body are 45 × 45 × 31.5 mm (W × L × H), and the control voltage does not exceed 15 V, ensuring the safety of operators, particularly those with li

SUBMITTER: Ma W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10825635 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature