Instrumental aspects of magnetic resonance force microscopy

A novel sample preparation technique for deposition of small volumes from the liquid phase is described. Samples with diameters as small as 0.5 mu m were created with this technique. A series of cantilever geometries was manufactured, with the aim of optimizing the e-factor. Force sensitivities of 8 x 10(-17) N/root Hz were achieved at room temperature, which is a considerable improvement over commercial cantilevers. Mechanisms which determine e-factors are discussed briefly. Quantitative understanding of MRFM is absolutely necessary. Calculations of the magnetic field and field gradients for several types of permanent magnets are presented.