HI Kathy,
Thanks for giving it your best efforts!
This is a common issue with many users so lets make this thread now
called ---> FAQ NO 1: How to improve your SEM imaging and see
the features on the CRT clearly
Getting acceptable SCREEN resolution likely is a result of your
scanning speed during image acquisition. The higher the scan speed
Number i.e., speed 1 to 2, followed by No 3 to 4 the more dwell time
per pixel gives you more information and the image appears denser
and with reduced signal to noise levels.
If you are not getting enough signal, first reduce brightness and
then increase contrast to a level just below where noise becomes
more apparent. You can also set the contrast to between 20 and 80%
using the monitor function button. Contrast in the monitor signal is
the width between high and low peaks in the waveform and brightness
is the relative position of the waveform. Best focus is obtained
when the waveform appears the most jagged with narrowest peaks.
The five lines from bottom to top are 0, 20, 50, 80, and 100%
brightness respectively. So I will set the contrast to go from 20
to 80 % brightness in the waveform display using the monitor
function.
I often set this up using a particle or any feature found in the
field of view. If you still need more signal change to the next
larger Aperture Strip hole position on the moveable aperture.
Default is Aperture No 3 and for very high resolution aperture strip
No 4.
On the other hand, very likely in your case if you are imaging
resist or oxides, if your sample is charging it will appear fine at
lower magnifications -- but as you zoom up in magnification details
become lost and often a very dark image appears or seems to be
distorted as the sample surface charges up. The only solution for
this is to image at low acceleration voltages or to coat your
samples with a thin conductive film of metal. ( 40 angstroms of Cr
or W, 100 - 150 angstroms of Au, Pd, or Al, or any other conductive
metal. We are getting our Hummer sputter coater set up and should
have it ready for use shortly.
I am happy to assist you if you are around today. Please see me in
my office free until 4 PM ...
James Conway
Hi
James,
I went to use the sem4160 tonight and was not having any good
results getting screen resolution.
Would you please be able to give your good going over to align
it again.
I need to use it again tomorrow night and would really
appreciate the help.
thank you so much
Kathy Jackson
408-888-7884
i did try