Miniature support for thin films containing single channels or nanopores and methods for using the same

Single-channel thin film devices and methods for using the same are provided. The subject devices comprise cis and trans chambers connected by an electrical communication means. At the cis end of the electrical communication means is a horizontal conical aperture sealed with a thin film that includes a single nanopore or channel. The devices further include a means for applying an electric field between the cis and trans chambers. The subject devices find use in applications in which the ionic current through a nanopore or channel is monitored, where such applications include the characterization of naturally occurring ion channels, the characterization of polymeric compounds, and the like.