Robert A Fernandez

US Patent:

8214918, Jul 3, 2012

Filed:

Nov 20, 2009

Appl. No.:

12/623329

Inventors:

Nissim Amos - Moreno Valley CA, US
Sakhrat Khizroev - Riverside CA, US
Rabee Ikkawi - Pembroke Pines FL, US
Robert Haddon - Riverside CA, US
Robert Fernandez - Brawley CA, US

Assignee:

The Regents of the University of California - Oakland CA

International Classification:

G01Q 60/56

US Classification:

850 49

Abstract:

Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM) probe tips that provide enhanced spatial resolution and methods of manufacture are provided. In one aspect, two or more magnetically-decoupled layers may be deposited on an AFM probe in order to create an active magnetic region at about the apex of the probe tip with dimensions less than about 10 nanometers. In another aspect, nanoscale patterning techniques may be employed to fabricate probe tips that possess plateau features. These plateau features may serve as substrates for the deposition of magnetic films having properties similar to magnetic recording media. Machining techniques, such as Focused Ion Beam (FIB) may be further employed to reduce the size of the magnetic materials deposited upon the substrate. Beneficially, because the plateaus of the substrate are substantially flat and of known geometry, and the magnetic properties of magnetic films deposited on flat surfaces are similar to those deposited upon the plateau, the magnetization of the MFM probe tips may be determined to high accuracy. In this manner, fine control over the magnetic properties of MFM probe tips may be achieved, providing enhanced MFM resolution.