FAQ

Magnetron sputtering and thermal evaporation are both widely used physical vapor deposition (PVD) techniques for thin-film coating. Although both methods can coat similar materials (such as carbon targets for sputtering and carbon rods for evaporation), each has unique strengths in semiconductor and optical applications. Here, we compare these two techniques using Vision Precision Instruments’ VPI SD-650MH magnetron sputter coater and SD-100AF high-vacuum thermal evaporator to help you determine the best approach for your specific requirements.

Electron microscopes (EM) are crucial tools for exploring micro/nano structures. To ensure high-resolution and clear images of samples under various types of electron microscopes, conductive thin films must be prepared on the sample surface. The choice and preparation of the target materials for the film directly affect imaging quality. Therefore, understanding the characteristics and suitable applications of different materials (targets) is essential.

In high vacuum sputtering coating equipment (VPI 650MH series sputtering coater), controlling gas flow is crucial for the stability of the sputtering process. Common gas flow control devices include Electromagnetic Flow Valve (Em) and Mass Flow Controller (MFC). They have different working principles and application scenarios, so how should you choose?

Happy Chinese New Year! VPI joins you in ushering in a new chapter for the Year of the Snake! 🎉🐍

Thank you for your trust and support. Let us join hands and march toward an even more brilliant 2025!

As the new year approaches, VPI has specially designed a 2025 calendar to express our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and trust. Over the past 20+ years, whether in high-vacuum coating, sample preparation, consumables and accessories, or custom procurement services, your confidence has always been our driving force for continuous improvement.

In the process of using VPI's high-vacuum magnetron series sputtering coating instruments, sputtering targets are essential components for achieving high-quality thin films. However, to ensure the stability and efficiency of the sputtering process, targets usually need to be equipped with backing plates. So, why do targets need backing plates? What role do backing plates play during sputtering? Engineer Li from VPI will provide a brief technical explanation.

Film Thickness Estimation of VPI Series Coater

In modern industrial manufacturing, thin-film technology is widely used in semiconductors, optical devices, decorative coatings, and other fields. The thickness of the thin film directly affects the performance and quality of the product. Therefore, real-time monitoring of film thickness during the coating process is crucial. VPI's R&D engineers will introduce why coating equipment needs to be equipped with a film thickness monitor and explain its working principle, focusing on the applications of the 650MH high-vacuum magnetron sputtering coating machine and the 900M sample preparation coating machine.

In the fields of materials science and engineering, thin film preparation is a critical step. Accurately controlling the thickness of the thin film is essential for ensuring product performance and quality. This article introduces how to estimate film thickness and the specific calculation logic when using a coating machine for sample preparation, helping researchers and engineers improve experimental efficiency and result reliability.

Recently, Vision Precision Instruments was pleased to have the opportunity to install and deploy a high vacuum magnetron dual-target sputtering coater (SD-650MHT) for the School of Chemical Engineering at Changchun University of Technology. We are honored to contribute to the research in material science at Changchun University of Technology.

As a key parameter affecting the quality, thickness uniformity and performance of the film, the sputtering rate is affected by many factors, including target type, vacuum degree, working gas pressure, power supply, magnetic field strength and so on. A thorough understanding of the influence of these factors on the sputtering rate is of great significance for optimizing the process parameters and improving the quality of the film.

In the field of modern materials science and nanotechnology, the sample preparation technology of thin films has become a key research topic. These thin film materials are widely used in electronic devices, optical devices, biosensors, catalysts and other fields. In order to obtain films with excellent properties in various applications, it is essential to select the appropriate target material and use high-performance coating equipment. This article will describe in detail the application of gold (Au), silver (Ag), platinum (Pt), and gold palladium (Au/Pd) targets in VPI's SD-900M model coators and their differences in sample preparation.

The SD-650MHT sputtering coating machine adopts advanced mechanical design and precise control systems, featuring extremely high vacuum levels and stable gas control capabilities. Its core components include a combination of a rotary vacuum pump and a turbomolecular pump, which can quickly achieve an ultimate vacuum of 5×10^-5Pa, ensuring high efficiency and stability during the coating process. Additionally, the instrument is equipped with a metal chamber with a diameter of 260mm and a height of 200mm, allowing for larger sample sizes and meeting various experimental needs.

Today, we are proud to announce the launch of a new cathodoluminescence instrument: a precision instrument designed specifically for the characterization of solid materials such as gems and minerals, aiming to bring more solutions to the field of material science.

Good luck in the Year of the Dragon! May everything go as you wish, and may you enjoy peace of mind and good health!

Happy New Year!!

Merry Christmas from VPI China

Introduction to VPI's New Launch Model: SD-PD260A Particle Dispenser

On Monday, Mr. Ivan, CEO of NOVATIQ SCIENTIFIC, one of the largest analytical instrument service providers in Malaysia and Singapore, and Mr. Charles, Head of Operations of Novatiq Scientific, paid a visit to VPI and both sides strengthened our deep partnership. This visit confirmed the diversified cooperation directions of the two parties and paved a smoother road for our future cooperation.