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Tip Vibration: A cantilever tip vibrates at or near its resonant frequency.
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Surface Interaction: As the tip approaches the sample surface, interactions cause changes in the oscillation amplitude and phase.
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Feedback Control: The system maintains a constant oscillation amplitude by adjusting the tip-sample distance.
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Data Acquisition: Vertical adjustments are recorded to create a topographic image, while phase shifts provide information on mechanical properties.

Resonant / Oscillating
Resonant / Oscillating Mode AFM, also known as Tapping Mode or Dynamic Mode, is a versatile and widely used Atomic Force Microscopy technique. This mode offers high-resolution imaging with minimal sample interaction, making it ideal for a broad range of materials, from soft biological samples to hard semiconductor surfaces.
Manufacturer
CSI
CSInstruments is a French scientific equipment manufacturer specialised in the conception of Atomic Force Microscope and options designed for existing AFM (Nano-Observer AFM, Resiscope™, High Voltage Amplifier, Magnetic modules). The product range proposed by CSInstruments is designed and manufactured to help the scientific community to achieve nanometre performances that meet the research needs and requirements for actual and future nanoscience applications.
CSInstruments was founded by a team of experts working in AFM field for more than 20 years, starting as pioneer with some historical manufacturers. CSInstruments activity is also based on a qualified and dynamic team, experienced in the fields of mechanics, electronics and data processing. This expertise ensures innovation and performance in the production of AFM and achieves an excellent price/performance ratio!

Key Features
- High-Sensitivity Phase Contrast: Detect subtle variations in material properties
- Wide Bandwidth Frequency: Accommodate various cantilever types and sample requirements
- Integrated Lock-in Amplifier: Ensure precise amplitude and phase measurements
- Low Contact Forces: Minimise sample damage and tip wear
- Versatile Imaging: Suitable for both soft and hard samples

How does Oscillating Mode work?
Specifications
Frequency Range | 1 kHz - 2 MHz |
Typical Oscillation Amplitude | 20 - 100 nm |
Phase Sensitivity | < 0.1° |
Optional | Advanced spectroscopy modules for force curve analysis |
Compatible with all CSInstruments AFM systems |
Applications
Materials science
- Characterisation of dielectric thin films
- Study of charge distribution in composite materials
- Investigation of ferroelectric domain structures
Electronic Materials
- Failure analysis in microelectronic devices
- Detection and mapping of trapped charges
- Characterisation of semiconductor dopant distributions
Life Sciences
- Study of charge distributions in biological membranes
- Investigation of electrical properties of biomaterials
Polymer Science
- Analysis of charge accumulation and dissipation in polymers
- Characterisation of piezoelectric polymers
Nanotechnology
- Electrical characterisation of nanomaterials (e.g., carbon nanotubes, graphene)
- Development and optimisation of nanoelectronic devices
Service Support
Comprehensive repairs and servicing
Annual Support Programs
Your metrology instrumentation is a major investment that is critical to your business operation and success. In today’s competitive climate, it is more important than ever to extend the functionality and peak performance of your metrology equipment years beyond the expiration of your factory warranty. CN Tech’s Support Programs will help ensure that your investment is protected, and that you and your instrument’s are always operating at peak performance.
With over 20 years’ experience servicing and repairing you can be assured that your system is in safe hands. The independent services we offer include system relocation, maintenance visits, parts and consumables, and break down interventions.
CN Tech’s Support Programs are an economical way to guarantee optimal working condition:
- Annual Preventive Maintenance
- Priority Technical Assistance
- Preferred Parts Availability
- On-Site User Training
- Remote Diagnostics
- No surprise repair expense and much more!
Support Contact Example
An example of our service and support contracts are shown below:

Metrology & Instrumentation Annual Support Programs 2024/25
CN Tech's Support Programs will help ensure that your investment is protected, and that you and your instrument’s are always operating at peak performance.