Atomic Force Microscope Ebox
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Model: CS-3230
Architecture
The Ebox architecture allows for large dynamic- range, low-noise scanning. This is achieved with an analog feedback GPID circuit for Z axis control, and a microprocessor controlled XY scan function, both the Z and XY scan functions have 15 stages of gain.
Images are captured with a 14 bit ADC which, when combined with the gain control, gives 22 bits of resolution in the XY and Z axis. The electronic controller operates independently of the control computer. Z axis signals are measured at 8 separate points.
Front and rear of Ebox
Cable Signals
60 Pin Cable
(Stage)
50 Pin Cable
(Open)
Software
Commands are sent and received to the microprocessor (MCU) in the EBox via an 8 bit digital bus found on the NI USB 6009 board. Below is an example of the timing used for sending bits to the MCU. Receiving bits has a similar protocol.
| Time | Descriptions |
| 1 | Interface idle and ready |
| 2 | Host drives a byte onto data bus |
| 3 | Host asserts handshake A |
| 4 | MCU sees handshake A is high |
| 5 | MCU reads byte from bus |
| 6 | MCU asserts handshake B |
| 7 | Host sees handshake B is high |
| 8 | Host releases data bus |
| 9 | Host de-asserts handshake A |
| 10 | MCU sees handshake A is low |
| 11 | MCU de-asserts handshake B |
| 12 | Host sees handshake B is low, return to idle state |
Communication timing with the MCU
Each bit sent to the EBox controls a different function. Although LabVIEW is used for the AFMWorkshop command and control software, any language capable of transmitting bits thought the NI ADC card may be used. The EBox documentation package includes a detailed description of all the programmable functions.
Specifications
| Connection | USB | ||||||||||||||
XY Scanning
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Control DAC
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ADC
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Amplitude/Phase Detection
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Z Feedback
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Ebox Block Diagram
