Control Station Overview

Input and display devices include a large monitor (Dimension Icon) or two smaller monitors (Dimension Icon-PI), keyboard, trackball, and mouse. These devices convey information signals to the computer to operate the software and SPM:

CAUTION: The monitors contain a hazardous voltage of 120 V.

Mouse versus Trackball

The mouse exclusively operates the NanoScope software with the exception of functions related to direct control of the stage. Such commands are only initiated with the trackball. Operator-initiated movement of motors via the Zoom, Focus, Move SPM (Z-stage), and Move XY commands are controlled by the trackball and its buttons. Motor operation is permitted only when the appropriate menu enables movement.

See Using the Trackball for more information.

The computer is the main control unit of the Dimension Icon SPM system. It includes a DVD-RW drive and, in the case of the Dimension Icon, a custom Digital Signal Processing/Interface (DSP) card. The computer receives data from the input devices, and controls external hardware via the standard ports and the input/output (I/O) bus. The computer isolates the user from direct interaction with the hardware.

Figure 1: Computer tower (back view) for Dimension Icon (left) and Dimension Icon-PI (right)

See the Control Station Connections for detailed information.

The NanoScope V Controller controls the microscope head and scanning. The Dimension Icon NanoScope V controller is connected via a 68-pin micro-SCSI cable between the rear of the controller and the computer. The Dimension Icon-PI system uses a USB 2 cable connection between the controller and computer.

The controller connects to the back of the Dimension Icon microscope via two cables from the front of the controller:

CAUTION: Cables should not be removed or installed while power is applied to the system. Connecting cables while power is applied may damage the instrument.

Figure 2: NanoScope V Controller (Back View)

Figure 3: NanoScope V-PI Controller (Back View)

CAUTION: The NanoScope V controller will overheat if the controller ventilation holes are blocked or if the controller is exposed to heat from an outside source.

For information regarding the set up of the Control Station, see Install the Control Station and Connecting the Dimension Icon System. For more detailed information specific to installing the NanoScope V Controller, see Set-up and Installation.

The Dimension Stage Controller controls the vacuum and air supply and optics illumination. It, in turn, is controlled via a serial cable connection with the computer. Gauges on the front panel of the Dimension Stage Controller indicate vacuum and positive pressures. The Dimension Stage Controller channels positive pressure to the underside of the chuck during X-Y movements, allowing the chuck to glide smoothly over the granite. The Dimension Stage Controller drives the motors of the Z-stage, focuses, zooms and powers the video camera. LEDs on the upper right front panel indicate aspects of the system's status.

CAUTION: The Dimension Stage Controller features a special thermostat that sets off an alarm if the controller overheats (> 40°C). The Dimension Stage Controller will overheat if the controller ventilation holes are blocked or if the controller is exposed to heat from an outside source.

The Dimension Stage Controller houses the following components:

Power Supply

The power supply is preconfigured at the factory. Verify voltage compatibility before plugging the system into the power source.

Vacuum and Air Pumps

The vacuum hose assembly routes vacuum and positive pressure control from the Dimension Stage controller to the stage and chuck.

Illumination System

Illumination can be computer or manually controlled. The knob located on the front of the Dimension Stage controller regulates manual illumination control. For computer control, there is an “illumination” parameter in the Other Controls panel to control brightness. The illuminator control knob must be in the “off” position to allow software control. Sample illumination is provided by an LED in the optics assembly on the left.