Scanning tunneling potentiometry implemented into a multi-tip setup by software

Abstract

We present a multi-tip scanning tunneling potentiometry technique that can be implemented into existing multi-tip scanning tunneling microscopes without hardware changes. The resulting setup allows flexible in situ contacting of samples under UHV conditions and subsequent measurement of the sample topography and local electric potential with resolution down to \AA\ and \mu V, respectively. The performance of the potentiometry feedback is demonstrated by thermovoltage measurements on the Ag/Si$(111)-(\sqrt3\times\sqrt3)\rm R30^{\circ}$ surface by resolving a standing wave pattern. Subsequently, the ability to map the local transport field as a result of a lateral current through the sample surface is shown on Ag/Si$(111)-(\sqrt3\times\sqrt3)\rm R30^{\circ}$ and Si$(111)-(7\times7)$ surfaces.