Multifunctional Microscope offers AFM, inverted light abilities.
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Press Release Summary:
Integrating atomic force microscopy (AFM) capabilities and those of inverted light or inverted confocal microscope, 6000ILM enables life science researchers go beyond optical diffraction limit to achieve nanoscale spatial resolution. It uses computer-controlled laser with automated photodetector alignment and offers point-and-shoot AFM imaging based on optical image. Functionality supports use of 0.55NA condensers to perform fluorescence or DIC imaging simultaneously with AFM imaging.
Original Press Release:
Agilent Technologies New AFM 6000ILM Seamlessly Integrates Atomic Force and Light Microscopy
SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today announced the availability of the Agilent 6000ILM AFM, a new atomic force microscopy (AFM) platform. The 6000ILM AFM is a state-of-the-art research solution that seamlessly integrates the capabilities of an AFM with those of an inverted light microscope or an inverted confocal microscope. The 6000ILM AFM lets life science researchers go beyond the optical diffraction limit to achieve nanoscale spatial resolution with unprecedented ease of use.
"The new 6000ILM immediately extends the capabilities of optical microscopes by allowing molecular imaging, live-cell imaging, force studies, and mechanical stimulus studies to be conducted with a single-system solution, all while preserving an efficient and natural workflow," said Jeff Jones, operations manager for Agilent's nanoinstrumentation facility in Chandler, Ariz. "The 6000ILM is ideal for studying cell membranes, the surface structure of cells, single DNA or RNA strands, individual proteins, single molecules, and biopolymers."
For ultimate ease of use, the 6000ILM uses a computer-controlled laser with automated photodetector alignment and offers simple point-and-shoot AFM imaging based on the optical image. A high-stability, precision motorized stage directs the movement of the sample beneath the AFM tip for measurement. Researchers can use off-the-shelf 0.55NA condensers to perform fluorescence or DIC imaging, simultaneously with AFM imaging, to quickly create high-precision overlays of the resultant images. The 6000ILM facilitates high-resolution topography and mapping, the ability to collocate points of interest sequentially, and the acquisition of more detailed information about a sample's structure and material property domains.
The 6000ILM supports a wide variety of scanning probe microscopy imaging modes, including Agilent's patented magnetic AC mode (MAC Mode) for unrivaled in-liquid imaging. Additional 6000ILM advantages include Agilent's innovative PicoTREC, for real-time molecular recognition imaging, as well as force spectroscopy, for experiments such as protein unfolding. Furthermore, the unique design of Agilent sample plates provides superior stability and easy sample loading. Heating control is available from ambient to 80 C with 0.1 C precision.
AFM Instrumentation from Agilent Technologies
Agilent 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. Agilent's leading-edge R&D laboratories ensure the continued, timely introduction and optimization of innovative, easy-to-use AFM technologies.
About Agilent Technologies
Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is the world's premier measurement company and a technology leader in communications, electronics, life sciences and chemical analysis. The company's 16,000 employees serve customers in more than 110 countries. Agilent had net revenues of $4.5 billion in fiscal 2009. Information about Agilent is available on the Web at www.agilent.com.
