Molecular Imaging Announces PicoMAPS a Precision Stage for AFM Imaging Extremely Accurate Positioning Stage for Imaging Large Samples

PicoMAPS delivers fast, accurate positioning for imaging large specimens at atomic scale. It allows investigators to precisely locate and identify an event and automatically re-position the sample to the area of interest quickly and accurately for a more detailed analysis.

Tempe, AZ (PRWEB) March 5, 2004 --- Molecular Imaging, Corp. today announces PicoMAPS, a Motorized Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) Precision Stage designed for surface characterization of large samples. PicoMAPS delivers fast, accurate positioning for imaging large specimens at atomic scale using Molecular Imagings PicoSPM II or PicoLE microscopes. It allows investigators to precisely locate and identify an event and automatically re-position the sample to the area of interest quickly and accurately for a more detailed analysis.

PicoMAPS is the newest addition to the Pico Family of products for atomic force microscopy (AFM) applications," said Vance Nau, Ph.D., President and CEO of Molecular Imaging. It has more sample flexibility and will enable the characterization of larger samples with better precision than other products available today. The PicoMAPS is truly unique in that it is also designed for imaging in fluids using Molecular Imagings patented MAC Mode®."

The new precision stage is a versatile platform designed for characterizing larger samples across a wide range of applications, from life science to material science, in both the industrial and academic markets. Dr. Nau continues, It provides AFM scientists with a tool that will open new doors in all fields of nanotechnology."

The PicoMAPS will allow investigators to image an area up to 200 mm in size. It is ideal for imaging large samples in ambient, air, fluids, and under controlled temperature conditions. The PicoMAPS is very flat and provides accurate AFM imaging capability along with high-speed displacement over the entire sample plate. The automated tip approach feature prevents damage to delicate sample structures. A motorized optical zoom and focus are designed for automatic pre-approach between the SPM tip and the sample. The top-down design makes studying samples with varying heights easy.

Modular System Design
PicoMAPS is designed for use with Molecular Imagings PicoSPM II and PicoLE AFM microscopes. Both have top-down scanning and offer flexibility and modularity. The open-top allows an unobstructed optical view of the cantilever and the sample without sacrificing sample handling. PicoMAPS is compatible with Molecular Imagings AAC, MAC Mode, TrueTemp and multi-purpose open and closed loop scanners. A modular "nose-cone" on the scanner makes changing imaging modes easy. The universal microscope base means that the microscope can also be used in other configurations including with an inverted optical microscope or the PicoAPEX environmental chamber. And, the state-of-the-art PicoScan 3000 or PicoScan 2500 controllers make it one of the most flexible systems available.

Molecular Imaging will showcase the PicoMAPS at the MRS (Materials Research Society) 2003 Fall Meeting in Boston, being held December 2nd -- 4th, at Hynes Convention Center. Customers and press are invited to visit the Molecular Imaging booth, number 702 at any time during the show. First shipments of the PicoMAPS are targeted for the second quarter of 2004.

About Molecular Imaging
Molecular Imaging is the premier developer and supplier of tools for Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) including systems, accessories, software and data management for imaging in ambient, air or fluids under controlled temperature and environmental conditions.

We are focused on creating innovative new products and techniques for our customers that will enable new application areas for AFM and SPM in academic and industrial research.

Additional information about Molecular Imaging available at: (http://www.molec.com)

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A product flyer is available at: (http://www.molec.com/literature_techspecs.html)

CONTACT:
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Worldwide Marketing Communications and Public Relations
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Tempe, AZ 85282

Tel: +1.480.753.4311
Fax: +1.480.753.4312