We are working to install new PCs on the logbook stations. The one that could cause trouble is the FESEM. In case it isn’t working by 1pm I am going to by pass the system temporarily so you can use it without tapping in. The accelerating voltage ON software button will be active until I take the bypass off.
FE-SEM in Electron Optics
We are seeing some horizontal lines in the images above magnification 100KX. I’m in touch with the Hitachi engineers who have given me a test. We will do that test this afternoon and get more info from Hitachi.
The scope works fine below 100KX so I’m not closing off use.
I’ll be in touch with you regarding progress.
Maintenance is complete. The instrument is working great.
Okay to use it!
Just a reminder that Hitachi will be in town to service the FESEM beginning Monday afternoon. He should finish by Thursday.
The FESEM software had a crude tool for making on-screen measurements, but there is a software program, PCI, that can be used for improved results. If you are interested in knowing more about this program let me know. It is quite easy to use.
I have put a band around the main valve door to keep the lever closed. It is easy to push it out of the way when you want to open the door. Please put it back when you quit your session.
The manufacturer is coming to service the FESEM next week. The work will begin Monday night and the microscope will be down until Thursday or Friday. The FIB will also be serviced while he is here but that will not affect most of you.
3:35 p.m. update. I adjusted a switch position and it may be okay now. If you hear a rattle noise push the MV1 lever (airlock valve) closed tightly and let me know right away.
2:42 p.m. The pneumatic lock on the FESEM that holds the Exchange Door closed is not functioning properly. The chamber vacuum will drop when the door drifts open and may cause the beam to automatically shut off. Please keep an eye on the door to make sure it remains in the closed position (EVAC Light will be a solid green and SC Vacuum Light will be green), especially while imaging.
We are contacting Hitachi to get a replacement.
—Danielle Langdon
IT has rewritten the logbook system software. There are some great new features that we will appreciate. It isn’t ready for installation – on some systems we are going to have to upgrade the thin clients (little computer boxes) to use a newer web browser. We’ll do initial testing on the FIB since it gets less use. These instruments will be upgraded
FESEM
SEM
TEM
FIB
ESEM
Confocal (has newer client – may not need upgrading)
STEM (has newer client – may not need upgrading)
I’ll let you now when we are testing on the FIB.
The FESEM is ready to use. I just took a sharp image at 150kX. Let me know if you have any problems.