Response of potential probes to nonequilibrium situations

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Abstract
When a metal contact is placed on a semiconducting material which is not in electronic equilibrium, a floating potential (difference) is developed between the metal and the bulk semiconductor. This is analogous to the open circuit voltage of a solar cell. Floating potentials can cause substantial errors when associated with probes used for the determination of potential contours. Their magnitude is here calculated by numerical and analytic techniques, as a function of the departure from equilibrium and the characteristics of the contact barrier structure. Criteria are established for a safe use of potential probes.