We provide training service to the University of Maryland, industry, federal labs and numerous academic institutions.
- Basic Training: Standard operation of the microscope in either tapping or contact mode is covered in detail. During the training, users are taught the principles of optimizing parameters using standard calibration grid. Users should also bring a sample of their own to practice on during training (please check sample dimensions to ensure your sample is compatible with the AFM. The AFM training takes up to 4 hours.
- Advanced Training: A number of techniques can be covered in the advanced training, including environmental AFM, high speed AFM, C-AFM, electrochemical AFM, fluid imaging and Force Mapping. At least 5 hours must be logged on the instrument before advanced training may be taken.
- Users will require an AFM probe, box to store the AFM probe/s in and sample mounts, these items are available in the facility for new users at an additional cost of $40 or you can bring your own.
- Internal users can request cardkey access to room 0504 and/or the Chemistry building.
Basic training scheduling
1. Follow the instructions to Register to become a NanoCenter and SAC user – Surface Analysis Center
2. Watch this great AFM tutorial video by Tonya Coffey
3. Read the two documents below, which can be found under the manuals section on the Nanocenter website (Needs NanoCenter login to view the documents):
AC mode imaging Scientific background and theory.pdf
Advanced tuning and image optimization.pdf
4. Fill out the form below to schedule the training.