FAQ - Semiconsoft,Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

I. Measurement questions

What can I measure with MProbe

Practically, any translucent coating can be measured. If coating is opaque in the visible range – near-infrared wavelength range can be used. MProbe is used to measure thousands of different applications and new application are constantly being discovered. In general, there are only several types of coating that we cannot measure: pigmented paint, thick metal films (>50nm),graphite (amorphous or diamond like carbon is no problem), paper, textile/fabric.

What is the thickness range

The thickness range depends on the spectrometer resolution and wavelength ranges, so it is different for each MProbe system model and, also, on the optical properties of the sample (refractive index and absorption). Several MProbe models can combines together to extends measurement range. Total thickness ranges is 1nm to ~ 2mm. Read more here…

Can I measure metal film

MProbe is using optical measurement method, so measurable metal thickness is limited to ~< 50nm. Thicker metal films are becoming opaque and cannot be measured. Read more here…

How fast is the measurement

Typical measurement is < 100ms. The measurement process includes data acquisition and data analysis. Measurement conditions and filmstack can be optimized for a faster measurement when needed.

MProbe integration questions

I want to integrate thin film measurement in my system, how can I do it

There are many ways to integrate MProbe or part thereof with third party system. Both software and hardware are easy to integrate. Software allows remote control of the measurement using optional TCP server (Modbus based). There are several OEM hardware packages depending on requirements. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Can I use MProbe for inline measurement

MProbe is currently used for many inline measurements. We customized the system for each new application. Depending on requirements there is a static position option (with 1 to 3 probes) and a scanner mounted option. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

I already have spectrometer - can I just buy software

We understand that sometimes our University/R&D customers already have spectrometers and some other components and just need a suitable software to have a thickness measurement setup. TFCompanion software can work with several commercial/off-shelf spectrometers: Ocean Optics USB spectrometers, Avantes USB spectrometers and StellarNet spectrometers. There are different installers depending on spectrometer use. Let us know the model of spectrometer and your application requirements.

I already have a microscope - can I use it with MProbe

Our MProbe 40 (MSP) system uses inspection grade reflectance microscope with long working distance (LWD) objectives. It is possible to integrate practically any microscope with MProbe but one need to be careful about wavelength range supported by microscope optics.The easiest way to integrate MProbe with a microscope is to use our microscope adapter . It connects to C-flange of microscope camera port and includes beamsplitter and 2MP camera