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Reviving Legacy AFMs: How to Unlock New Capabilities
In the world of nanoscale research, advanced measurement modes keep evolving. But many labs are stuck with older Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) systems—still functional, but missing out on the newest capabilities. For those labs, CSI (Concept Scientific Instruments) offers an intriguing path forward: the Galaxy Dual Controller. It’s a controller upgrade that promises to breathe new life into existing AFM platforms, adding cutting-edge modes, better resolution, and more flexible measurement options—all without needing a full AFM replacement.
Well, hold onto your microscope slides, because what we found was equal parts bizarre, beautiful, and unexpectedly fascinating.
What is the Galaxy Dual Controller?
The Galaxy Dual Controller is a modular, electronics and software control upgrade designed to retrofit older AFM systems, including:
Multimode AFM
– Pico SPM (STM)
– 5100 AFM
– 5500 AFM
– STM, Contact, AC, Phase, MFM/ EFM/ PFM,/LFM, EC modes
It replaces or upgrades the control electronics, adds modern digital components, and introduces additional imaging and characterization modes that many “legacy” systems don’t have. Think of it as a way to catch up, rather than throw out and buy new.
Key Features & What It Enables
Here are some of the headline capabilities that make the Galaxy Dual Controller stand out:
Feature | What It Enables / Why It Matters |
New Advanced Modes (HD-KFM; ResiScope / Soft ResiScope; Soft Intermittent Contact) | These allow researchers to access electrical mapping, high-definition surface potential, resistance/current mapping over very wide ranges, and better handling of delicate or soft samples. For example, ResiScope provides resistance from ~10² to 10¹² ohms and current ranges from tens of femtoamps (50 fA) up to mA. csinstruments.eu+2CSInstruments+2 |
Improved Electronics & Digitization | The controller includes low-noise electronics, a real integrated lock-in amplifier, and 24-bit drive architecture: high resolution in XY and Z, reduced electronics drift, better signal-to-noise. csinstruments.eu+2schaefer-tec.com+2 |
Software & Workflow Enhancements | The accompanying NanoSolution software offers guided workflows, one-click mode switching, auto-settings for fast imaging, but also expert-level controls. That reduces the barrier for new users, speeds up alignment and scanning, helps avoid tip/sample damage. csinstruments.eu+2CSInstruments+2 |
Compatibility & Cost Efficiency | Rather than discarding expensive AFM hardware, labs can retrofit the electronics, extend the utility of their current AFM base, and gain modern features. This is often far more budget-friendly than purchasing an entirely new system. Kyoto University’s case study (see below) underlines this. CSInstruments |
Case Study: Kyoto University’s Upgrade
One example of how the Galaxy Dual Controller is being used in practice is the Nanomaterials Lab at Kyoto University. There, researchers upgraded a MultiMode AFM system using CSI’s Galaxy Dual Controller. The results:
- New imaging & measurement modes (HD-KFM, ResiScope, Soft-ResiScope, Soft Intermittent Contact) brought better sensitivity and resolution. CSInstruments
- Non-destructive imaging of soft samples (polymers, biological / mixed materials) thanks to Soft Intermittent Contact mode. CSInstruments
- More precise electrical measurements (surface potential, resistance mapping) enabling expanded research into 2D materials, energy materials, etc. CSInstruments
This case illustrates both the scientific gains (better data, broader measurement possibilities) and operational gains (saving cost, extending useful life of the AFM base).
Potential Limitations & Considerations
While the Galaxy Dual Controller is compelling, potential users should keep a few things in mind:
- Hardware Base Quality: The effectiveness of the upgrade depends on the condition of the existing AFM hardware (scanner, tip holder, vibration isolation, etc.). If those are degraded or low performance, the controller alone may not deliver top‐tier imaging.
- Training & Workflow Changes: Adding new modes (e.g. ResiScope, HD-KFM) can have a learning curve. Proper training and calibration are essential to realize performance.
- Support & Service: Especially for labs far from manufacturer or distributor support, spare parts, warranty, calibration services, etc., must be checked.
- Cost vs Benefit: It’s still an investment. Labs must evaluate whether the features gained align with their research needs enough to justify cost (though usually much less than buying a new AFM).
Why This Matters
AFM remains a key tool in materials science, nanotechnology, semiconductors, biology, etc. The pressure is always on to obtain higher resolution, better electrical/ mechanical property mapping, and to do so in a cost-efficient and sustainable manner. In that context, upgrades like Galaxy Dual Controller help bridge the gap between legacy hardware and modern scientific demands. They allow labs to:
- Stay competitive without large capital expenditures.
- Make older tools relevant again.
- Support more projects / collaborations by expanding the set of experiments possible.
Learn More
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