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5500 ILM AFM/SPM Imaging on an Inverted Light Microscope

Data Sheets

Imaging on an Inverted Light Microscope 

Overview 

The Keysight Technologies, Inc. 5500 inverted light microscope (ILM) system combines the power of a high-resolution atomic force microscope (AFM) with the direct optical viewing capability of an inverted optical microscope. (Figure 1) The Keysight ILM offers unparalleled performance and ease of use for imaging in fluids. It extends AFM utility in order to encompass studies of single molecules, polymers, cell membranes, whole cells, and much more. Atomic force and optical (or fluorescence) microscopy data can be obtained simultaneously with the Keysight ILM. 

The ILM’s patented mounting design incorporates a rigid structure that provides the low noise floor needed to obtain sub nanometer resolution. Furthermore, the advanced design allows the AFM to sit on top of an inverted microscope and under the illumination pillar, resulting in better optical contrast for the images.

Keysight’s QuickSlide sample-loading mechanism and a flexible sample-handling plate make sample preparation easy. The microscope is positioned on the Quick- Slide assembly, allowing the user to change samples and/or solutions without affecting the alignment of the AFM or the optical microscope.  

Features and Benefits 

  • High-resolution atomic force microscope with inverted optical microscope allows simultaneous AFM and fluorescence imaging 
  • Top-down scanner design enables effortless setup 
  • Inverted optical view, open-top viewing access, and top illumination provide superior optical contrast 
  • Patented, rigid stage mounting provides low noise floor for subnanometer resolution 
  • Patented MAC Mode® option provides gentlest, nondestructive AFM imaging of samples in fluid 
  • PicoTREC™ option delivers realtime, simultaneous topography and recognition imaging 
  • Several sample-handling plates available to facilitate easy imaging in fluids or ambient air 
  • Easy Quick Slide sample-loading mechanism makes sample preparation simple 
  • Flow-through liquid cell lets researchers monitor real-time changes while exchanging solutions 
  • Temperature control available to enable imaging applications under a broader range of physiological conditions
  • Full compatibility with Keysight’s modular AFM/SPM microscopes offers simple upgrade path for extended capabilities 

Applications 

  • Life science/biology 
  • DNA 
  • Proteins 
  • Cell biology 
  • Polymer
  • Thin films 
  • Nano beads 
  • Electrochemistry
  • Non-aqueous solvents 

Imaging Options 

Optimized for use with Keysight’s 5500 AFM/SPM, the ILM allows researchers to take advantage of the many powerful features that are available only with Keysight’s AFM/ SPM products. For instance, Keysight’s patented MAC Mode, the most gentle imaging mode available for any AFM platform, provides unparalleled performance in fluids. Flow-through liquid cells and precise temperature control options allow users to image soft biological samples under controlled physiological conditions. Keysight’s proprietary sample plate stability further supports high-resolution AFM. Additionally, the unique PicoTREC option delivers real-time, simultaneous topography and recognition imaging. A wide range of complementary techniques can be performed with the ILM system including FRET, fluorescence, darkfield and brightfield microscopy. 

Multiple User Platform 

The Keysight ILM is a modular, multiple-user platform. The open-architecture design permits easy access, manipulation, setup, and modification of samples while experiments are being performed. Convenient access to the sample plate and familiar sample preparation techniques make the ILM ideal for life science and other applications that require intensive sample preparation. Keysight’s unique modular design also makes it easy to change imaging techniques (for example, MAC to EC or AFM to STM) or to use either the atomic force microscope or the optical microscope as a stand-alone system. Other operating modes available include current sensing AFM. 

Industry-Standard Compatibility 

The 5500 ILM is compatible with a wide selection of inverted optical microscopes and cameras. The researcher can use 25 mm Petri dishes and glass slides.

AFM Instrumentation from Keysight Technologies

Keysight Technologies offers high-precision, modular AFM solutions for research, industry, and education. Exceptional worldwide support is provided by experienced application scientists and technical service personnel. Keysight’s leading-edge R&D laboratories ensure the continued, timely introduction and optimization of innovative, easy-to-use AFM technologies.

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