FIB sample preparation
The new Thermo Scientific Helios 5 DualBeam builds on the high-performance imaging and analysis capabilities of the industry-leading Helios DualBeam family. It is carefully designed to meet the needs of materials science researchers and engineers for a wide range of focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) use cases – even on the most challenging samples.
The Helios 5 DualBeam redefines the standard in high-resolution imaging with high materials contrast; fast, easy, and precise high-quality sample preparation for (S)TEM imaging and atom probe tomography (APT) as well as the high-quality subsurface and 3D characterization. Building on the proven capabilities of the Helios DualBeam family, additional advancements to the new Helios 5 DualBeam were designed to ensure the system is optimized for a variety of manual or automated workflows. Those improvements include:
- Greater ease-of-use: The Helios 5 DualBeam is the most accessible DualBeam for users of all experience levels. Operator training may be reduced from months to days and the system design is helping all operators to achieve consistent, repeatable results on a wide variety of advanced applications.
- Increased productivity: Advanced automation capabilities, increased robustness and stability enhancements in the Helios 5 DualBeam and Thermo Scientific AutoTEM 5 software can significantly increase the sample preparation throughput by allowing unattended and even overnight operation.
- Improved time to results: The Helios 5 DualBeam now includes FLASH, a new concept of tuning the image. With conventional microscopes, each time an operator needs to acquire an image, the microscope has to be carefully tuned by iterative alignments. With the Helios 5 DualBeam, a simple gesture across the screen will activate FLASH, which automatically adjusts these parameters. The automatic adjustments can significantly improve throughput, data quality, and simplify the acquisition of high-quality images.
TEM sample preparation
The Thermo Scientific Helios 5 DualBeam is part of the fifth generation of the industry-leading Helios DualBeam family. It is carefully designed to meet the needs of scientists and engineers, combining the innovative Elstar electron column for extreme high-resolution imaging and the high materials contrast with the superior Thermo Scientific Tomahawk Ion Column for the fast, easy, and precise high-quality sample preparation. In addition to the advanced electron and ion optics, the Helios 5 DualBeam incorporates a suite of state of-the-art technologies that enables simple and consistent high-resolution (S)TEM and atom probe tomography (APT) sample preparation, as well as the high-quality subsurface and 3D characterization, even on the most challenging samples.
High-quality sample preparation
Site-specific sample preparation for (S)TEM and APT analysis using the high-throughput Thermo Scientific Tomahawk Ion Column or the Thermo Scientific Phoenix Ion Column with unmatched low-voltage performance.
Fully automated
Fast and easy, fully automated, unattended, multi-site in situ and ex situ TEM sample preparation and cross-sectioning using optional AutoTEM 5 Software.
Shortest time to nanoscale information
For users with any experience level using best-in-class Thermo Scientific Elstar Electron Column featuring Thermo Scientific SmartAlign and FLASH technologies.
Next-generation UC+ monochromator technology
Reveal the finest details with the next-generation UC+ monochromator technology with higher current, enabling sub-nanometer performance at low energies.
Complete sample information
Sharp, refined and charge-free contrast obtained from up to six integrated in-column and below-the-lens detectors.
3D analysis
The high-quality, multi-modal subsurface and 3D information with the precise region-of-interest targeting using optional Thermo Scientific Auto Slice & View 4 (AS&V4) Software.
Rapid nanoprototyping
Fast, accurate and precise milling and deposition of complex structures with critical dimensions of less than 10 nm.
Precise sample navigation
Tailored to individual application needs thanks to the high stability and accuracy of the 150-mm piezo stage or the flexibility of the 110-mm stage, as well as the in-chamber Thermo Scientific Nav-Cam Camera.
Artifact-free imaging
Based on integrated sample cleanliness management and dedicated imaging modes such as DCFI and SmartScan Modes.
STEM imaging
The Thermo Scientific Helios 5 FX configuration offers a high productivity workflow with its unique, in-situ, 3Å resolution STEM capability.
To view the specifications of the Helios 5 HX DualBeam and Helios 5 FX DualBeam, download the datasheet found in the documents section.
Helios 5 DualBeam specifications for the semiconductor industry
| Helios 5 CX | Helios 5 HP | Helios 5 UX | Helios 5 HX | Helios 5 FX | ||
| Workhorse preparation and XHR SEM imaging | Ultimate sample preparation (TEM lamellae, APT) | Angstrom-scale STEM imaging and sample preparation | ||||
| SEM | Resolution | 20 eV – 30 keV | 20 eV – 30 keV | |||
| Landing energy | 0.6 nm @ 15 keV 1.0 nm @ 1 keV | 0.6 nm @ 2 keV 0.7 nm @ 1 keV 1.0 nm @ 500 eV | ||||
| STEM | Resolution @ 30 keV | 0.7 nm | 0.6 nm | 0.3 nm | ||
| FIB preparation processes | Max material removal | 65 nA | 100 nA | 65 nA | ||
| Optimal final polish | 2 kV | 500 V | ||||
| TEM sample preparation | Sample thickness | 50 nm | 15 nm | 7 nm | ||
| Automation | No | Yes | Yes | |||
| Sample handling | Travel | 110 x 110 x 65 mm | 110 x 110 x 65 mm | 150 x 150 x 10 mm | 100 x 100 x 20 mm | 100 x 100 x 20 mm + 5 axis (S)TEM Compustage |
| Loadlock | Manual Quickloader | Automated | Manual Quickloader | Automated | Auto + Auto insert/extract STEM rod | |
Helios 5 DualBeam specifications for the materials science
| Helios 5 CX | Helios 5 UC | Helios 5 UX | ||
| Ion optics | Tomahawk HT Ion Column with superior high-current performance | Phoenix Ion Column with superior high-current and low-voltage performance | ||
| Ion beam current range | 1 pA – 100 nA | 1 pA – 65 nA | ||
| Accelerating voltage range | 500 V – 30 kV | 500 V – 30 kV | ||
| Max. horizontal field width | 0.9 mm at beam coincidence point | 0.7 mm at beam coincidence point | ||
| Minimum source lifetime | 1,000 hours | 1,000 hours | ||
| Two-stage differential pumping Time-of-flight (TOF) correction 15-position aperture strip | Two-stage differential pumping Time-of-flight (TOF) correction 15-position aperture strip | |||
| Electron optics | Elstar ultra-high-resolution field emission SEM column | Elstar extreme high-resolution field emission SEM column | ||
| Magnetic immersion objective lens | Magnetic immersion objective lens | |||
| High-stability Schottky field emission gun to provide stable high-resolution analytical currents | High-stability Schottky field emission gun to provide stable high-resolution analytical currents | |||
| Electron beam resolution | At optimum working distance (WD) | 0.6 nm at 30 kV STEM 0.6 nm at 15 kV 1.0 nm at 1 kV 0.9 nm at 1 kV with beam deceleration* | 0.6 nm at 30 kV STEM 0.7 nm at 1 kV 1.0 nm at 500 V (ICD) | |
| At coincident point | 0.6 nm at 15 kV 1.5 nm at 1 kV with beam deceleration* and DBS* | 0.6 nm at 15 kV 1.2 nm at 1 kV | ||
| Electron beam parameter space | Electron beam current range | 0.8 pA to 176 nA | 0.8 pA to 100 nA | |
| Accelerating voltage range | 200 V – 30 kV | 350 V – 30 kV | ||
| Landing energy range | 20 eV – 30 keV | 20 eV – 30 keV | ||
| Maximum horizontal field width | 2.3 mm at 4 mm WD | 2.3 mm at 4 mm WD | ||
| Detectors | Elstar in-lens SE/BSE detector (TLD-SE, TLD-BSE) | |||
| Elstar in-column SE/BSE detector (ICD)* | ||||
| Elstar in-column BSE detector (MD)* | ||||
| Everhart-Thornley SE detector (ETD) | ||||
| IR camera for viewing sample/column | ||||
| High-performance in-chamber electron and ion detector (ICE) for secondary ions (SI) and electrons (SE)* | ||||
| Thermo Scientific In-chamber Nav-Cam Camera for sample navigation* | ||||
| Retractable, low-voltage, high-contrast, directional, solid-state backscatter electron detector (DBS)* | ||||
| Retractable STEM 3+ detector with BF/ DF/ HAADF segments* | ||||
| Integrated beam current measurement | ||||
| Stage and sample | Stage | Flexible 5-axis motorized stage | High-precision five-axis motorized stage with Piezo-driven XYR axis | |
| XY range | 110 mm | 150 mm | ||
| Z range | 65 mm | 10 mm | ||
| Rotation | 360° (endless) | 360° (endless) | ||
| Tilt range | -15° to +90° | -10° to +60° | ||
| Max sample height | Clearance 85 mm to eucentric point | Clearance 55 mm to eucentric point | ||
| Max sample weight | 500 g in any stage position Up to 5 kg at 0° tilt (some restrictions apply) | 500 g (including sample holder) | ||
| Max sample size | 110 mm with full rotation (larger samples possible with limited rotation) | 150 mm with full rotation (larger samples possible with limited rotation) | ||
| Compucentric rotation and tilt | Compucentric rotation and tilt | |||
* Available as an option, configuration dependent
Thermo Fisher Scientific PFA Demo Days
To support semiconductor manufacturing needs, Thermo Fisher Scientific continues to bring new capabilities to our industry-leading failure analysis, metrology and characterization solutions.
In our Thermo Fisher Scientific PFA Demo Days, we showcase our latest innovations for sample preparation and FinFET logic circuit delayering.
Introducing Helios 5 DualBeam
The new Thermo Scientific Helios 5 DualBeam builds on the high-performance imaging and analysis capabilities of the industry-leading Helios DualBeam family.
Register for our recorded webinar (~17 minutes) and learn how additional advancements to the new Helios 5 were designed to ensure the system is optimized for a variety of manual or automated workflows.
Latest application developments of multiple ion species plasma FIB technology
Register for our live webinar and learn how leading research labs are using our new Thermo Scientific Helios 5 Laser PFIB and Thermo Scientific Helios 5 Hydra DualBeam to advance their materials characterization.
Thermo Fisher Scientific PFA Demo Days
To support semiconductor manufacturing needs, Thermo Fisher Scientific continues to bring new capabilities to our industry-leading failure analysis, metrology and characterization solutions.
In our Thermo Fisher Scientific PFA Demo Days, we showcase our latest innovations for sample preparation and FinFET logic circuit delayering.
Introducing Helios 5 DualBeam
The new Thermo Scientific Helios 5 DualBeam builds on the high-performance imaging and analysis capabilities of the industry-leading Helios DualBeam family.
Register for our recorded webinar (~17 minutes) and learn how additional advancements to the new Helios 5 were designed to ensure the system is optimized for a variety of manual or automated workflows.
Latest application developments of multiple ion species plasma FIB technology
Register for our live webinar and learn how leading research labs are using our new Thermo Scientific Helios 5 Laser PFIB and Thermo Scientific Helios 5 Hydra DualBeam to advance their materials characterization.
Process control using electron microscopy
Modern industry demands high throughput with superior quality, a balance that is maintained through robust process control. SEM and TEM tools with dedicated automation software provide rapid, multi-scale information for process monitoring and improvement.
Quality control and failure analysis
Quality control and assurance are essential in modern industry. We offer a range of EM and spectroscopy tools for multi-scale and multi-modal analysis of defects, allowing you to make reliable and informed decisions for process control and improvement.
Fundamental Materials Research
Novel materials are investigated at increasingly smaller scales for maximum control of their physical and chemical properties. Electron microscopy provides researchers with key insight into a wide variety of material characteristics at the micro- to nano-scale.
Semiconductor Pathfinding and Development
Advanced electron microscopy, focused ion beam, and associated analytical techniques for identifying viable solutions and design methods for the fabrication of high-performance semiconductor devices.
Yield Ramp and Metrology
We offer advanced analytical capabilities for defect analysis, metrology, and process control, designed to help increase productivity and improve yield across a range of semiconductor applications and devices.
Semiconductor Failure Analysis
Increasingly complex semiconductor device structures result in more places for failure-inducing defects to hide. Our next-generation workflows help you localize and characterize subtle electrical issues that affect yield, performance, and reliability.
Physical and Chemical Characterization
Ongoing consumer demand drives the creation of smaller, faster, and cheaper electronic devices. Their production relies on high-productivity instruments and workflows that image, analyze, and characterize a broad range of semiconductor and display devices.
Power Semiconductor Device Analysis
Power devices pose unique challenges for localizing faults, primarily as a result of power device architecture and layout. Our power device analysis tools and workflows quickly pinpoint fault locations at operating conditions and provide precise, high-throughput analysis for characterization of materials, interfaces and device structures.
Display Module Failure Analysis
Evolving display technologies aim to improve display quality and light conversion efficiency to support applications in different industry sectors, while continuing to reduce production costs. Our process metrology, failure analysis and research and development solutions help display companies solve these challenges.
(S)TEM Sample Preparation
DualBeam microscopes enable the preparation of high-quality, ultra-thin samples for (S)TEM analysis. Thanks to advanced automation, users with any experience level can obtain expert-level results for a wide range of materials.
3D Materials Characterization
Development of materials often requires multi-scale 3D characterization. DualBeam instruments enable serial sectioning of large volumes and subsequent SEM imaging at nanometer scale, which can be processed into high-quality 3D reconstructions of the sample.
Nanoscale Prototyping
As technology continues to miniaturize, the demand for nanoscale devices and structures is ever increasing. 3D nanoprototyping with DualBeam instruments helps you to quickly design, create, and inspect micro- and nanoscale functional prototypes.
APT Sample Preparation
Atom probe tomography (APT) provides atomic-resolution 3D compositional analysis of materials. Focused ion beam (FIB) microscopy is an essential technique for high-quality, orientation, and site-specific sample preparation for APT characterization.
Cross-sectioning
Cross sectioning provides extra insight by revealing sub-surface information. DualBeam instruments feature superior focused ion beam columns for high-quality cross sectioning. With automation, unattended high-throughput processing of samples is possible.
In Situ experimentation
Direct, real-time observation of microstructural changes with electron microscopy is necessary to understand the underlying principles of dynamic processes such as recrystallization, grain growth, and phase transformation during heating, cooling, and wetting.
Multi-scale analysis
Novel materials must be analyzed at ever higher resolution while retaining the larger context of the sample. Multi-scale analysis allows for the correlation of various imaging tools and modalities such as X-ray microCT, DualBeam, Laser PFIB, SEM and TEM.
Circuit Edit
Advanced, dedicated circuit edit and nanoprototyping solutions, which combine novel gas-delivery systems with a broad portfolio of chemistries and focused ion beam technology, offer unparalleled control and precision for semiconductor device development.
Semiconductor TEM Imaging and Analysis
Thermo Scientific transmission electron microscopes offer high-resolution imaging and analysis of semiconductor devices, enabling manufacturers to calibrate toolsets, diagnose failure mechanisms, and optimize overall process yields.
Sample Preparation of Semiconductor Devices
Thermo Scientific DualBeam systems provide accurate TEM sample preparation for atomic-scale analysis of semiconductor devices. Automation and advanced machine learning technologies produce high-quality samples, at the correct location, and a low cost per sample.
Semiconductor Analysis and Imaging
Thermo Fisher Scientific offers scanning electron microscopes for every function of a semiconductor lab, from general imaging tasks to advanced failure analysis techniques requiring precise voltage-contrast measurements.
Device Delayering
Shrinking feature size, along with advanced design and architecture, results in increasingly challenging failure analysis for semiconductors. Damage-free delayering of devices is a critical technique for the detection of buried electrical faults and failures.
(S)TEM Sample Preparation
DualBeam microscopes enable the preparation of high-quality, ultra-thin samples for (S)TEM analysis. Thanks to advanced automation, users with any experience level can obtain expert-level results for a wide range of materials.
3D Materials Characterization
Development of materials often requires multi-scale 3D characterization. DualBeam instruments enable serial sectioning of large volumes and subsequent SEM imaging at nanometer scale, which can be processed into high-quality 3D reconstructions of the sample.
Nanoscale Prototyping
As technology continues to miniaturize, the demand for nanoscale devices and structures is ever increasing. 3D nanoprototyping with DualBeam instruments helps you to quickly design, create, and inspect micro- and nanoscale functional prototypes.
APT Sample Preparation
Atom probe tomography (APT) provides atomic-resolution 3D compositional analysis of materials. Focused ion beam (FIB) microscopy is an essential technique for high-quality, orientation, and site-specific sample preparation for APT characterization.
Cross-sectioning
Cross sectioning provides extra insight by revealing sub-surface information. DualBeam instruments feature superior focused ion beam columns for high-quality cross sectioning. With automation, unattended high-throughput processing of samples is possible.
In Situ experimentation
Direct, real-time observation of microstructural changes with electron microscopy is necessary to understand the underlying principles of dynamic processes such as recrystallization, grain growth, and phase transformation during heating, cooling, and wetting.
Multi-scale analysis
Novel materials must be analyzed at ever higher resolution while retaining the larger context of the sample. Multi-scale analysis allows for the correlation of various imaging tools and modalities such as X-ray microCT, DualBeam, Laser PFIB, SEM and TEM.
Circuit Edit
Advanced, dedicated circuit edit and nanoprototyping solutions, which combine novel gas-delivery systems with a broad portfolio of chemistries and focused ion beam technology, offer unparalleled control and precision for semiconductor device development.
Semiconductor TEM Imaging and Analysis
Thermo Scientific transmission electron microscopes offer high-resolution imaging and analysis of semiconductor devices, enabling manufacturers to calibrate toolsets, diagnose failure mechanisms, and optimize overall process yields.
Sample Preparation of Semiconductor Devices
Thermo Scientific DualBeam systems provide accurate TEM sample preparation for atomic-scale analysis of semiconductor devices. Automation and advanced machine learning technologies produce high-quality samples, at the correct location, and a low cost per sample.
Semiconductor Analysis and Imaging
Thermo Fisher Scientific offers scanning electron microscopes for every function of a semiconductor lab, from general imaging tasks to advanced failure analysis techniques requiring precise voltage-contrast measurements.
Device Delayering
Shrinking feature size, along with advanced design and architecture, results in increasingly challenging failure analysis for semiconductors. Damage-free delayering of devices is a critical technique for the detection of buried electrical faults and failures.
Electron microscopy services for
the materials science
To ensure optimal system performance, we provide you access to a world-class network of field service experts, technical support, and certified spare parts.
