Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS)

PPMS
  • Name: Dynacool 9T Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS)
  • Manufacturer: Quantum Design
  • Model Number: 1307-110
  • Location: AMMPI Annex 112
The Quantum Design PPMS DynaCool is a versatile, cryogen-free system that precisely measures various physical properties (electrical, thermal, magnetic) of materials (powders, thin films, crystals) over wide ranges of temperature (1.8 K to 400 K, or lower with options) and magnetic fields (up to 14 T), enabling automated studies of quantum materials, superconductivity, magnetism, and more through add-on options like resistance, heat capacity, and magnetometry. 
System Features
  • No need for liquid cryogens
  • Temperature range of 1.8 K – 400 K
  • 9 T, 12 T and 14 T magnets available
  • Continuous Low-Temperature Control – maintains temperatures below 4.2 K with smooth temperature transitions when warming and cooling through 4.2 K
  • Controlled temperature Sweep Mode
  • Fully automated operation of available PPMS measurement options
  • Built-in Cryopump for high vacuum applications (<10-4 Torr)
  • New electronics built using CAN architecture for improved reliability
  • Standby mode conserves power while requiring only a short recovery time
Safety & Protection
  • Cryogen-Free Operation: Uses a 2-stage pulse tube cooler to cool the magnet and sample chamber, removing the hazards associated with handling liquid helium and nitrogen.
  • Integrated Cryopump & Vacuum System: Maintains high vacuum preventing condensation and ensuring safe operating conditions for sensitive instruments.
  • Magnetic Shielding: A built-in shield keeps the 5 Gauss line close to the cabinet, enhancing safety and allowing placement near other sensitive equipment.
  • Automated Software Control: MultiVu software controls temperature, field, and vacuum, with automated safety interlocks.
  • Stable Operation: The system features a switch-less magnet and maintains temperature stability down to 1.8 K (or 50 mK with options).
  • Standby Mode: Conserves power and resources when the system is not actively measuring, improving overall safety and reliability.
Configurability & Accessories

D410A — Resistivity Option: Four‑probe and van der Pauw resistivity for bulk, thin‑film, and patterned samples.

  • Works with dedicated resistivity probe or the D450 MFP.
  • Supports 2‑ and 4‑wire DC; AC/lock‑in available with ETO (D605).
  • Adjustable current/voltage ranges; low‑noise wiring recommended.
  • Fits bars, chips, and van der Pauw layouts via interchangeable boards.

D605 — Electrical Transport Option (ETO): Lock‑in–based AC transport for resistance, Hall, and magnetoresistance.

  • Integrated lock‑in with configurable excitation and phase.
  • Multiple channel pairs for longitudinal/transverse geometries.
  • Compatible with D410A and TTO (D670) wiring.
  • Works with transport probe or D450 MFP; ideal for Hall bars and patterned devices.

D670 — Thermal Transport Option (TTO): Measures thermal conductivity (κ), Seebeck (S), and Peltier (Π).

  • Heater/thermometer platform for two‑tau or steady‑state methods.
  • Supports Seebeck, κ, and Nernst/Ettingshausen (with proper wiring/alignment).
  • Native PPMS integration; ETO (D605) improves low‑signal AC readout.

D450 — Multi‑Function Probe (MFP): A flexible probe for transport, resistivity, I‑V, and custom sensors.

  • Remappable pinout with multiple twisted pairs and shielding.
  • Interchangeable sample boards: solder‑pad, spring‑pin, micro‑connector.
  • Supports D410A, D605, simple thermometry, and user‑built sensors.

D655 — Heat Capacity Option: Relaxation‑method heat capacity (Cₚ) across full temperature/field range.

  • Microcalorimetry puck with heater and thermometer.
  • Standard relaxation, long‑pulse, and field‑dependent modes.
  • PPMS‑integrated electronics; ETO can assist with lock‑in thermometry.

D680 — Dilatometer Option: High‑resolution thermal expansion and magnetostriction.

  • Capacitive or strain‑gauge dilatometer cells.
  • Push‑rod or parallel‑plate designs with selectable force.
  • Sub‑Å to nm resolution depending on setup and noise.
  • Works with capacitance bridge or strain‑gauge readout; compatible with D450 MFP or dedicated probe.

Quantum Design Specifications

PPMS Measurement Options