The force required to separate the probe from a surface or cell, measured during probe retraction

A microscopy technique that uses a cantilever, working like a tiny finger, feeling surfaces at the molecular level. In FluidFM, it provides the precise control needed to work with individual cells.

The opening at the tip of the FluidFM cantilever through which fluids can be dispensed or aspirated. Sizes range from 300 nm to 8 µm.

The FluidFM control software interface used for system operation and data acquisition.

A tiny, flexible beam component of the FluidFM probe that bends when in contact with an object. This bending tells us how much force is being applied, similar to how a scale measures weight.

The clearance distance between the dish surface and the cantilever, ensuring safe probe movement above samples.

The bending of the cantilever measured in response to applied forces, initially recorded in mV and converted to nm using sensitivity values.

The FluidFM results viewer software used for data analysis.

An experimentally determined value that accounts for the setup and conditions during measurement. Used for more accurate force calculations, it takes into account the specific probe dimensions.

A patented technology that combines the force sensitivity and precision of AFM with nanofluidics. It enables controlled dispensing, aspiration, and force measurement at the single-cell and sub-cellular level.

A sensing device consisting of a cantilever beam with integrated microfluidics and a reflective coating. It consists of a cantilever glued onto a plastic adapter. In FluidFM systems, probes enable simultaneous force measurement and controlled fluid delivery at the micro/nanoscale.

A fine tool used to interact with and measure the properties of a sample. It typically includes a cantilever with a reflective coating for laser detection and an aperture at the tip, as well as a hollow microchannel. Aperture size and stiffness can be different depending on the product type. 
Also named as Micropipette, Nanopipette or Nanosyringe. 

A key feature of FluidFM, allowing the user to apply and measure forces with nanonewton precision. It ensures gentle contact with cells and surfaces during sensitive experiments.

The process of positioning the laser onto the probe’s reflective layer. Proper alignment is crucial for accurate signal detection.

The process of optimizing the readout of the laser signal in the photodetectors. Proper maximization is crucial for accurate signal detection.

A tiny fluidic channel embedded within the cantilever of the FluidFM probe. It connects the probe’s aperture to the internal fluid reservoir, enabling precise flow of liquids.

See FluidFM Probe. Mostly used for Printing and Pick and Place applications.

See FluidFM Probe. Mostly used for SC Injection and Live-Seq applications.

Operating mode that maintains the probe at maximum height to prevent unintended contact with samples.

The FluidFM hardware platform/instrument.

Small rubber rings placed in the FluidFM Head that maintain the tightness of the system. They can be place in the interface between sealing screw and the head (O-Ring head side) or between the sealing screw and the FluidFM probe (probe side). Missing or damaged O-rings can cause poor gripping and signal issues.

Optical sensors that detect laser position on the cantilever, with top and bottom detectors measuring deflection.

Software application for defining custom plate formats not included in standard configurations.

A mechanism that regulates the pressure inside the FluidFM probe’s microfluidic system. Positive or negative pressure enables fluid dispensing or aspiration through the probe aperture.

The ratio of energy stored to energy lost during cantilever oscillation. Higher values (QF 100-120) indicate better probe performance and measurement precision.

Code on probe packaging containing probe specifications for automatic configuration.

Area on the surface on the cantilever that reflects the laser beam for signal detection.

A chamber within the plastic part of the FluidFM probe adapter that holds the fluid sample. It connects to the microchannel and allows for controlled fluid flow under pressure.

A method for calculating the spring constant of a cantilever based on its dimensions and resonance frequency.

Titanium component used to securely close the interface between the FluidFM head and the mounted probe. It ensures a tight, leak-proof connection within the fluidic system, enabling precise pressure control and fluid delivery. It works in combination with two O-rings (probe side and head side) to maintain system integrity.

Calibration factor (nm/mV) that converts voltage signals from photodetectors into actual cantilever deflection distances, enabling subsequent force calculations.

Target force or deflection value reached or maintained during probe-surface contact.

A minimum signal value (e.g., 100 mV) set to distinguish true contact from background noise.

Measure of cantilever stiffness (nN/nm or N/m) that determines the relationship between applied force and deflection. It is essential for converting displacement into force.

Force measurement mode recording deflection versus position data during approach and retraction cycles.

Measurement technique using thermal vibrations to determine cantilever mechanical properties and its Spring Constant. Also called Resonance Spectrum. 

Raw electrical output (mV) from photodetectors before conversion to force or distance values.

Standard multi-well culture vessels (6, 12, 24, 96-well formats) compatible with FluidFM systems.

Predefined sequence of operations in ARYA software (e.g., Preparation Advanced, System Initialization).

Vertical position of the probe relative to the surface, measured in mm or μm.