Category: Philips XL 40 ESEM

I’m pleased to update you on the progress of the Apreo2 installation. Currently, the installation is proceeding smoothly, with the cryo system scheduled for installation next week, followed by the EDS and EBSD systems. Our aim is to have the instrument fully operational for ACMAL staff operation by April. At that time we will be available to perform staff assisted analysis on the instrument. Subsequently, once our staff is proficient and training protocols are established, we will commence user training, likely by mid-June.

If you have a strong interest in utilizing cryo capabilities for your research projects, I encourage you to reach out to me. Additionally, the Apreo2 will have a GIS and heating stages. If you’re interested in utilizing these capabilities for analysis, our staff will be available to assist you.

Impact on the ESEM Capabilities:

It’s important to note that the installation of the EDS and EBSD systems on the Apreo2 will impact the capabilities of the ESEM. Specifically, while the ESEM will retain EDS functionality, the AzTEC Feature will be discontinued, and EBSD capability will no longer be available on the ESEM. However, both these functionalities will be accessible on the Apreo2.

Training:

There have been many questions about training. We will prioritize training for the PIs of the proposal, those requiring EBSD or AzTEC features, and then individuals with prior SEM experience.

Timeline Summary:

• Cryo system installation: Next week
• EDS and EBSD system installation: Following cryo system installation
• Apreo2 operational by ACMAL staff : April
• Commencement of user training: Mid-June

If you have any questions or concerns please let me know.

Best,
Liz

Well it finally happened, the backscatter detector is broken. Until further notice the ESEM will not have a functioning BSE detector. I will look into replacement options.

Next week, Oxford will be on campus to improve the connection between SEMTech and Oxford. If you have experienced any issues using the ESEM, please let me and Isabella Jaszczak know.

The ESEM is functioning well. However, the instrument is not connecting to the internet. IT is aware of the problem and working to resolve it.

October 4

This issue is resolved. If you have any trouble with the ESEM please let me know.

October 3

Due to alignment issues with the beam on the esem we are not able to get high enough counts for EDS. Please take this into consideration while planning your usage. I am working with SEMTech to resolve this issue.

The ESEM is back online.

September 13, 2023

I’m pleased to report that the ESEM repairs will be completed today and the instrument is available as soon as tomorrow morning.

September 8, 2023

Unfortunately, the power supply did not fix this issue. I’ve done as much remote troubleshooting as possible. We will have a service technician on campus next week to look into the issue.

If anyone has any urgent samples, please contact me and we can make other arrangements.

September 7, 2023

Just a quick update. It looks like the filament is not the issue. I have been working with SEMTech to diagnose the problem. They are overnighting me a power supply. We are going to replace it tomorrow. I will have an update at that point.

I know many of you are eager to get back on the instrument. I thank you for your patience.

September 6, 2023

The ESEM is down due to an issue with the filament. We are working on this and hope to have the issue resolved by tomorrow.

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.