As semiconductors and quantum computing advance at breakneck speed, engineers and researchers increasingly need precise test environments at cryogenic temperatures. Whether it’s superconducting qubits, cryogenic CMOS, or just advanced material studies, the ability to reliably measure device performance from room temperature down to just a few degrees above absolute zero is becoming essential.

Traditional cryogenic setups often rely on liquid helium. While effective, those systems bring logistical headaches, recurring costs, and the risk of downtime when supplies run short. For many labs, that means research moves slower than it should.

FormFactor has created the PLC50-dry, a cryogen-free probe system that delivers ultra-low temperatures, rock-solid stability, and flexible test configurations, all in a compact, lab-friendly design.

Instead of relying on liquid helium, the PLC50-dry uses a closed-cycle cryocooler to reach base temperatures below 6 K. No tanks to refill, no supply chains to manage, just reliable access to cryogenic conditions whenever you need them.

This change brings clear benefits:

  • Lower costs by eliminating helium refills
  • More uptime since the system runs continuously without interruptions
  • Simpler lab integration, especially in shared research spaces where liquid cryogen logistics can be a burden

Don’t let the small footprint fool you, however, the PLC50-dry packs serious performance.

Highlights include:

  • Base temperature of <6 K
  • Up to 6 DC probe arms, with optional RF for high-frequency work
  • Different substrate carriers for wafers up to 100 mm or single dies
  • Independent control of movable probe platen and positioners
  • Fast, manual step-and-repeat testing of the whole wafer
  • Exceptional probe position stability for repeatable nanoscale measurements

In short, it’s a big-system performer that fits comfortably into tight lab environments.

 

Tailored for Quantum and Advanced Materials Research

The PLC50-dry was designed with today’s most demanding applications in mind, including:

  • Superconducting devices
  • Cryogenic CMOS
  • Advanced material studies

By offering a stable, flexible, and cryogen-free test environment, the PLC50-dry helps researchers explore device performance without introducing test variability.

Research evolves fast, and this system is built to evolve with it. Modular by design, the PLC50-dry supports a wide range of configurations today while leaving room for expansion later. Whether you’re running DC measurements, high-frequency RF tests, or a mix of both, the system adapts to meet your needs.

That flexibility means labs can grow capabilities without replacing their core platform.

Every PLC50-dry is supported by FormFactor’s reputation for precision engineering and worldwide service. That means you get more than a system, you get a long-term testing solution backed by expert applications support.

With reduced downtime, dependable performance, and a platform that grows with your research, the PLC50-dry is designed to help you move faster and more confidently.

For researchers pushing the limits of quantum devices, cryogenic CMOS, or advanced materials, the PLC50-dry is the key to unlocking your next breakthrough.

Download the PLC50-dry Datasheet and Product Highlights here.