Electrical Probe Stations

Electrical probe stations provide a stable platform for precise probe head positioning using micromanipulators, enabling accurate testing of electronic devices. Barnett Technical Services is an authorized distributor of MicroSupport micromanipulators and accessories, which can be configured to create high-performance electrical probe stations for a variety of testing applications.

AxisPro for Probing: The Axis Pro micromanipulator probe station offers μm-level positioning accuracy in a modular benchtop setup. Standard systems come with two micromanipulator arms and can be customized with three or more arms, making it ideal for multi-probe testing applications in microelectronics and materials research.

QuickPro for Probing Applications: The Quick Pro system delivers standalone electrical probing capabilities. Easily combined with a white-light microscope, this probe station micromanipulator setup supports up to four precision probes, each capable of 1 μm resolution. It’s an excellent choice for users requiring compact, high-performance probe stations.Typical images of single probe arms and four-probe configurations are shown below.

Micro Support Single Electrical Probe
MicroSupport Quick Pro With Typical Probe Holder
Micro Support Probe Station
MicroSupport Four-Probe Station
Micro Support Probe Close Up
Close-up View of MicroSupport Four-Probe System

Products

Benchtop micromanipulator incorporating a zoom microscope and motorized sampling arms...

Read More..

Individual micromanipulator arm that can be added to a white light microscope...

Read More..

Applications of Electrical Probe Stations

Electrical probe stations are widely utilized in a variety of fields, showcasing their adaptability and importance. Key applications include:
  • Semiconductor Device Testing: Essential for evaluating the performance, reliability, and functionality of semiconductor devices,
  • Failure Analysis in Microelectronics: Crucial for identifying and resolving defects in electronic circuits to improving product quality.
  • Material Research in Nanotechnology: Used to investigate the electrical properties of nanomaterials, enabling breakthroughs in material science.
  • Electrical Characterization of MEMS Devices: Supports testing of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), which are used in sensors and actuators.
  • R&D Labs and Manufacturing: Integral in research environments and production lines, enabling the development and refinement of cutting-edge technologies.

Advantages of Using Micromanipulator Probe Stations

Micromanipulator probe stations elevate testing precision and adaptability, offering several benefits:
  • Unmatched Accuracy and Repeatability: Achieve sub-micron positioning, enabling highly sensitive and reliable testing.
  • Modular Design for Customization: Adapt probe stations to meet specific testing needs,
  • Integration with Advanced Imaging Tools: Seamlessly pair with Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM) or white light microscopes, providing enhanced visualization and analysis during testing.

Tips for Choosing the Right Micromanipulator Probe Station

Selecting the right micromanipulator probe station is critical to ensuring optimal performance and meeting testing requirements. Consider the following criteria:
  • Positioning Accuracy: Evaluate the level of precision required for your testing applications to ensure the probe station meets your specifications.
  • Number of Probes Needed: Determine the number of probes required, whether for single-probe configurations or more complex multi-probe setups.
  • Compatibility with Existing Equipment: Ensure the probe station is compatible with your laboratory’s current tools.
  • Frequency of Use and Durability: Assess the station’s robustness to withstand frequent usage while maintaining consistent performance.
MicroSupport offers electrical probe stations that can be configured for up to four probes around a white light microscope. These products offer superior positioning capabilities with a simple interface for positioning control. Barnett Technical Services is the distributor of these products from MicroSupport.