Since SPM specialists Image Metrology and Digital Surf joined forces a few years back, development teams from both companies have been working hard to create the next generation of SPM image analysis software, based on the industry-standard Mountains® platform and including all the best SPIP™ interactivity and analytical tools. The new product line, named MountainsSPIP® 8, will be unveiled at the MRS Fall Exhibit in Boston on November 27-29 and made available to users in Q2 2019.
Here we premiere some of the benefits of this uniquely powerful toolbox for SPM data analysis.
1 – Correlative Analysis
Researchers wishing to explore a sample beyond the limitations of one single instrument technology need look no further than MountainsSPIP® 8.
Whether working with data from 3D optical profilers, AFM, SEM, fluorescence, Raman, IR or other microscopes, users benefit from powerful detection tools which allow them to easily manage data at different scales (see image below).
Density maps, SEM, fluorescence and other images can easily be overlaid on surface topography to facilitate the correlative study of features.
2 – Force spectroscopy
Characterizing molecular interactions at the nanoscale using atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a key application in the fields of materials and life sciences.
MountainsSPIP® contains all the features necessary for viewing, processing and analyzing force curves and force volume images.
This includes tools for correcting data, creating interactive parameter maps and managing large collections of curves.
All parameters and results can be exported to Excel at the touch of a button.
3 – Particle analysis
MountainsSPIP® takes particle analysis to a whole new level. Combining all the best Mountains® and SPIPTM tools, this tool allows users to easily detect and quantify features of any shape and size on virtually any surface.
It is possible to choose which layer of data to use for feature detection then select an appropriate detection method (threshold, watershed, edge or circle detection).
When it comes to quantification, over 70 parameters (area, perimeter, diameter etc.) are available. Analyze the sample as a whole or just click on any individual particle to see parameters instantly displayed!
4 – Multi-channel file management & processing
SPM users often work with data comprised of multiple images (current, phase, thermal etc.) obtained using different scanning modes.
MountainsSPIP® manages multi-channel files in exactly the same way it manages single-channel data, allowing users to switch easily from one channel to another during each and every stage of image processing.
5 – Total traceability
Thanks to its unique analysis workflow (see image below), MountainsSPIP® makes it easy to keep track of analysis steps already applied to data and instantly revert back to any step in the process.
Even better, any step can be edited, resulting in all dependent steps being automatically recalculated.
6 – Productivity boosted
As in previous versions of Mountains® software, MountainsSPIP® allows users to save work and pick up where they left off next time.
Repetitive analysis routines, following the same steps again and again, can be automated with robust tools including templates.
7 – Compatible with any SPM
MountainsSPIP® is capable of processing data from any brand or type of scanning probe microscope (AFM, STM, SNOM, etc.) The software can open over 170 different file formats covering various data types (profile, surface, image, multi-channel, force curve, hypercube, etc.).
8 – Renowned expertise in surface analysis
Digital Surf and Image Metrology have many years experience developing surface imaging & metrology software for the global industrial and scientific communities. Both companies have research partnerships with leading laboratories worldwide. The majority of national metrology institutes (PTB in Germany, NIST in the USA, NPL in the UK, LNE in France etc.) rely on the expertise and precision of Mountains® and/or SPIPTM software.
9 – Trusted by the best
Digital Surf’s main focus is on working as a partner with instrument manufacturers worldwide, in the fields of surface metrology and microscopy.
Mountains® software is now offered by over 50 profilometer and microscope manufacturers, embedded in their equipment.