ARC2? SPM Controller0 pages

ARC2 Controller
DATA S H E E T 2 9

ARC2™ SPM Controller –
Power, Speed, and Flexibility
The Asylum Research ARC2 SPM Controller is
the most innovative controller for atomic force
microscopy. The ARC2, based on the groundbreaking all-digital MFP-3D™ Controller,
incorporates improved DACs, high voltage
relays, a high speed digital link, and a new
design for advanced power and flexibility.
FPGA and Crosspoint Switch –
Fast and Flexible
The ARC2 combines a fast, low noise FPGA
and crosspoint switch for powerful signal routing
flexibility. This enables nearly limitless controller
configurations, easily set within the software.

The ARC2 SPM Controller combines high performance
with ease of use.

High Performance DACs
“DAC glitches” are practically eliminated with the
ARC2’s new high performance DACs. Performance
is typically 10-20x better than DACs currently used
in other commercial controllers.

Software Controlled Relays

The hamster knob on the ARC2 can be easily removed from

The ARC2 incorporates new software-controlled,
the controller case for operating convenience. The cover to
high voltage relays on the X/Y and Z piezo outputs,
the BNC panel can now be opened or closed (pictured open).
and for the laser power. This prevents transients
upon powering up and increases the life of
the piezos. High voltage relays also allow for
Ready for Solar Applications
cleaner thermal noise measurements, especially
The ARC2 Controller is ideal for one of the
when using the Asylum Research Extended Z
growing application areas in AFM – solar. The
Head (40µm Z scan range).
software can now toggle the SLD on and off
High Speed Digital Link
quickly (within a few milliseconds) for measurements on light sensitive photovoltaics. This allows
All ARC2s come standard with a high speed
conductive AFM data (ORCA™) to be taken
digital link – ready for the next generation of
features and functions.
during a second pass with the SLD off, preventing