In this paper we present a method for manipulating nanometer-sized particle
s on surfaces using a commercial atomic force microscope (AFM). A PC-mouse-
based 'click and move' manipulation scheme was implemented without the need
for additional software or hardware development. The success of the scheme
depends mostly on the choice of tip and cantilever which should be able to
operate in both the contact mode and vibrating cantilever mode. Four diffe
rent tip/cantilever combinations were tested and suitable types were found
among those commercially available. The necessary properties are defined. T
he technique enables the fabrication of various kinds of two-dimensional st
ructures of nanoparticles but may have relevance also to other areas of nan
oscience, e.g. biotechnology. We developed the technique in order to study
the magnetization of single nanoparticles using a very sensitive Hall micro
magnetometer. The AFM is used as a tool to select and position a specific p
article in the active region of the magnetometer.