IMPORTANT – new logbook software TODAY

We switched over to the new logbook software this morning in the M&M labs. ATDC and Chem Sci haven’t been done yet but will before week is done.

Several important things to note.

1. your accounts won’t be associated with your ID yet. We will have to do that as we go. The moral is – don’t wait until the last minute to do this in case no one is nearby to help you. This is especially the case if you come after hours.

2. there is one database now instead of 9. If we put your name in one computer it is valid for them all. we will assign scopes to you based on your training.

3. when you login you MUST chose the correct microscope. I’m going to ask if we can have the system default to your “scope(s)”, but for now pay attention to the scope you are trying to login to.

Danielle, Liz and I are ready to help.

FESEM Sample Exchange Door

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

TEM status

There is a short in the ion vacuum pump. This happens when a flake of contamination comes off the pump elements and shorts across the high voltage circuit inside the pump. This is bad news because it cannot be serviced in the lab. Unless I can knock the flake loose somehow it will have to be sent back for repair. The microscope would be down a few weeks.

I’ll keep you updated.