Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) (1)

Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) is an electron microscope that uses an electron beam to obtain the surface of a specimen, and it has superior resolution compared to an optical microscope.

 

Today, we will explore the usage of SEM, specifically focusing on the initial procedures.

 

Process before inserting into SEM machine:

I take SEM images of molded circuit boards.

 

Since the molding itself is an insulator that does not conduct electricity, it requires two processes.

 

When imaging an insulator, including molding, it is recommended to go through the following process to ensure that the electron beam responds well.

 

First, platinum (Pt) coating is required.

 

This Pt coating can be easily done by placing the object to be coated in the Pt coater and pressing the Start button.

 

Generally, the coating takes about 180 seconds or 300 seconds.

 

One thing to note is that if the height of the object is low, the platinum may be applied very thinly.

 

If the height is too low, use a support base or similar to raise the height of the object.

 

An object properly coated with Pt appears gray.

 

However, if there is water inside the object, the vacuum inside the device may not be well maintained, and water stains may remain on the object. In such cases, remove the moisture thoroughly and perform the Pt coating again.

 

Second, carbon tape should be applied around the object.

 

This is not only for increasing conductivity.

 

When using the tilting function in SEM, if the object tilts and falls, it can damage the machine.

 

Therefore, the object should be secured to the floor with double-sided tape, and carbon tape with conductivity is used to ensure proper imaging.

 

Simply wrap the tape around the area to be imaged, ensuring that it does not cover the intended area.

 

 

To be continued.