  Using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) produced by chemical vapor deposition, we have
explored different strategies for the preparation of carbon nanotube devices
suited for electrical and mechanical measurements. Though the target device is
a single small diameter CNT, there is compelling evidence for bundling, both
for CNTs grown over structured slits and on rigid supports. Whereas the
bundling is substantial in the former case, individual single-wall CNTs (SWNTs)
can be found in the latter. Our evidence stems from mechanical and electrical
measurements on contacted tubes. Furthermore, we report on the fabrication of
low-ohmic contacts to SWNTs. We compare Au, Ti and Pd contacts and find that Pd
yields the best results.
