Cryogen-free 4 K cryogenic probe station – Lake Shore Model CRX-4K

The Model CRX-4K is a versatile cryogen-free micro-manipulated probe station used for non-destructive testing of devices on full and partial wafers up to 51 mm (2 in) in diameter. The CRX-4K is a platform for measurement of electrical, electro-optical, parametric, high Z, DC, RF, and microwave properties of materials and test devices. Nanoscale electronics, quantum wires and dots, and semiconductors are typical materials measured in a CRX-4K. A wide selection of probes, cables, sample holders, and options makes it possible to configure the CRX-4K to meet your specific measurement applications.

Based on a Sumitomo 4 K base temperature CCR, the CRX-4K provides efficient temperature operation and control over a temperature range of 4.5 K to 350 K without the operating expense of liquid cryogens. An optional interchangeable high temperature sample holder provides a temperature range of 50 K to 475 K. Each cryogenic stage is equipped with a sensor and heater to provide fast thermal response and rapid warm up for sample exchange. Actively cooled shielding intercepts blackbody radiation before it reaches the sample, ensuring small thermal gradients.

Careful design consideration was taken to provide a low vibration, user-friendly tool. Integrated vibration isolation and damping prevents mechanical vibration from affecting measurement performance. Sample stage vibration is limited to less than 1 µm (X, Y, and Z axes) through the full-scale temperature range.

The CRX-4K is user configured with up to six ultra-stable micromanipulated probe arms, each providing precise 3-axis probe position control to land the probe tip accurately on device features. Each probe can also be rotated ±5° about its axis (planarized) to ensure multi-tip probes are properly aligned with the sample. DC measurements can be optimized for lownoise, high-impedance (low leakage), or high-thermal contact to the device under test (DUT). RF measurements include configurations up to 67 GHz. Optical sources can be introduced through viewport windows or optional fiber optic probe arm modification. Proprietary probe arms in a variety of sizes and materials minimize thermal mass and optimize electrical contact to the DUT. In addition, probe tips are thermally linked to the sample stage to minimize heat transfer to the DUT.

Features of Model CRX-4K Probe Station

Closed cycle refrigerator provides high stability cryogen-free operation from 4.5 K to 350 K

Optional temperature range from 50 K to 475 K

Control stability to 10 mK

Sample exchange cycle time of <3.5 h

Low vibration design: <1 µm at sample stage (X, Y, and Z axes)

Measurements from DC to 67 GHz

Sample holders optimized for low noise, high frequency, or high impedance measurements

Accommodates up to 51 mm (2 in) diameter wafers

Configurable with up to six thermally anchored micro-manipulated probe arms

Probe arms with 3-axis adjustments and ±5° theta planarization

Cables, shields, and guards minimize electrical noise and thermal radiation losses

Options and accessories for customization to specific research needs