The AFM computer is not currently working. MTU IT is aware of the problem. We will work with them to address the situation.
Until the issue is resolved, the instrument will not be available for use.
July 14, 2023, 11:14 a.m.
Unfortunately the service engineer couldn’t complete the repairs this week and will be returning next week.
July 12, 2023, 2:35 p.m.
Hitachi will be on site tomorrow to repair the issue. We hope to have the FESEM back online soon.
July 12, 2023, 10:50 a.m.
The FESEM has a vacuum issue and won’t be available for use until we can repair this. I have calls out to our service engineers and hope to know more soon.
I’m glad to let you know the STEM is back online.
You may schedule sessions using Google calendar from tomorrow’s afternoon on.
Make sure to select ACMAL-STEM room.
Erico Freitas
The ESEM is back online. We have a temporary fix. The issue will be permanently solved by the upgrade in August. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any problems.
The ESEM is currently down. We are having issues with the vacuum control unit.
This is just a reminder that the ACMAL facilities will be CLOSED Tuesday, July 4, 2023. This is a University Closed Holiday so the building will also be locked.
Only those with swipe access will be able to use the instruments.
Please plan your instrument use accordingly.
This is to inform you about the recent updates made to the SEM sample coating procedure in order to streamline the process and enhance its efficiency.
To have your samples coated, please drop them off at the image analysis lab (M&M 631) in the designated desiccator. Samples should be labeled with your name, email address, and any special instructions. If necessary, you can find labels within the desiccator. Labeled samples should be placed in the intake section of the dessicator. Once samples have been left, please fill out the Training/Coating Questionnaire to notify ACMAL staff of your sample.
Allow 2 days for us to coat your samples. Once completed your samples will be returned to the desiccator on the “Ready” shelf and we will send you an email.
Unfortunately the FEI Titan Themis STEM is down. There’s a piece of specimen (likely) attack the objective lens pole piece or the diffraction lens fixed aperture that is completely blocking the e-beam. So there’s no way to take images the way it is.
I’m calling service and will keep you posted.
Apologize for any inconvenience it may cause.
—
Erico Freitas
The instrument will be temporarily offline from August 1to August 18 to facilitate the installation of the SEMTech 8000 upgrade. During the upgrade period, the ESEM system will be inaccessible, and no reservations or usage will be possible. We kindly request that you plan your projects accordingly and make alternative arrangements for your imaging and analysis requirements during this period.
To ensure a smooth transition and help you familiarize yourself with the upgraded system, we will be offering training sessions for all ESEM users. These training sessions are mandatory for anyone intending to use the SEMTech 8000. The sessions will be conducted starting from August 19, once the upgrade is complete.
To schedule your training session, please sign up for training. You will be directed to our self-scheduling calendar, where you can choose a time slot that suits you best. Appointments are available starting August 19. Due to limited availability, we recommend scheduling your session at your earliest convenience.
Instrument Offline from 8/1 to 8/18
I am writing to inform you about an exciting upgrade to our Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM) system. ACMAL has received funding to upgrade the ESEM with the SEMView8000. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Vice President for Research Office, the Institute for Materials Processing, the Materials Science and Engineering Department, and the MSE Senior Design team for making this upgrade possible.
The instrument will be temporarily offline from August 1 to August 18 to facilitate the installation of the SEMTech 8000 upgrade. During the upgrade period, the ESEM system will be inaccessible, and no reservations or usage will be possible. We kindly request that you plan your projects accordingly and make alternative arrangements for your imaging and analysis requirements during this period.
To ensure a smooth transition and help you familiarize yourself with the upgraded system, we will be offering training sessions for all ESEM users. These training sessions are mandatory for anyone intending to use the SEMTech 8000. The sessions will be conducted starting from August 19, once the upgrade is complete.
To schedule your training session, please sign up for training. You will be directed to our self-scheduling calendar, where you can choose a time slot that suits you best. Appointments are available starting August 19. Due to limited availability, we recommend scheduling your session at your earliest convenience.
We understand that this temporary unavailability and the training requirement may cause some inconvenience, and we apologize for any disruption it may cause to your work. However, we believe that the benefits of the SEMTech 8000 upgrade and the subsequent training will be instrumental in advancing our research capabilities.
If you have any urgent projects or time-sensitive samples requiring ESEM imaging during the upgrade period, please let us know as soon as possible. We will do our best to accommodate your needs either before or after the downtime.
We appreciate your understanding and patience during this upgrade process. The improved capabilities of the SEMTech 8000, along with the training sessions, will undoubtedly enhance our research capabilities and contribute to the success of our projects.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the ESEM upgrade, the training sessions, or their impact on your work, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly. I am here to address any inquiries or provide additional information.