FAQ's
- What is EM?
- What is an SEM?
- What is a TEM?
- What can you do with an EM?
- Why use an EM?
- What experience or knowledge do I need to use an EM?
- What kind of projects can I do using EM?
- How can I learn to use the facility?
- What services does EMtrix offer?
- What kind of samples will EMtrix be able to examine?
- Does EMtrix offer any training?
- What is the turnaround time between samples and results?
- What are the hours of operation for EMtrix?
- How much does it cost?
- What do we need to get started?
- How secure is the database?
- How do I see my results?
- When do I get my results?
- Can I download my results?
- What do I need to see/obtain my results?
- How does EMAnywhere function?
- What is Wide-Area-Microscopy (WAM)?
- What do I need to use EMAnywhere?
EM stands for Electron Microscopy. The system utilizes a beam of electrons to obtain an image.
An SEM or Scanning Electron Microscope is a powerful microscope that uses a system of vacuums with the electron beam to create an image. The electron beam scans the surface of the sample. Electrons that eminate from the sample are collected.
A TEM or Transmission Electron Microscope is a powerful microscope that uses a system of vacuums with the electron beam penetrating through a thin sample (~60nm) to create an image.
With an EM, one can view very small items. One can view intricate details within cells, for example. The intricate details on the surface of samples may be visualized.
The EM is a useful research & diagnostic tool when you need to examine small samples requiring high resolution.
What experience or knowledge do I need to use an EM?
As a minimum, a working knowledge of the sample(s) being examined is very useful to understand and interpret results obtained.
What kind of projects can I do using EM?
There are various projects that can be performed using EM and are limited only by one’s imagination.
How can I learn to use the facility?
The facility is available to individuals and groups for use. Training sessions will be required before an individual will be allowed to use the facility independently. Please contact Jim Driver.
What services does EMtrix offer?
Various services are available through EMtrix including complete sample processing and analysis.
What kind of samples will EMtrix be able to examine?
EMtrix has the capabilities to perform SEM and TEM sample processing and viewing. Please contact Jim Driver at EMtrix for specific needs.
Does EMtrix offer any training?
Yes, EMtrix offers training for SEM and TEM usage and sample processing.
What is the turnaround time between samples and results?
Currently, the turnaround time for sample processing to results take approximately 2 weeks for a TEM sample and approximately 1 week for SEM samples.
What are the hours of operation for EMtrix?
EMtrix is open during regular University business hours or by special arrangement.
Please consult the fee schedule for specific costs.
What do we need to get started?
To get started, please contact Jim Driver for a consultation to determine your needs and requirements.
The database is very secure. The only individuals that have access to your images are yourself and EMtrix.
Your images are accessible through the internet. The database is accessible using only your username and password. A notice will be sent to you if any changes have been made to your results or the database.
Your results may be downloaded by you or you may request a CD of images to be sent to you.
Yes, you can download your results.
What do I need to see/obtain my results?
One way to obtain or to see your results is by accessing the database on-line, all you require is the web address, your username and password and internet access. A second method is to request that your results be sent by mail.
EMAnywhere is an aspect of wide area microscopy. EMAnywhere allows individuals to collaborate from different locations. Individuals log on to the collaboration when a session is created and broadcasted through the internet. There are webcams set-up in the EMtrix facility. EMAnywhere allows for multiple individuals in multiple locations to view live video feed from the microscopes and the EMtrix facility.
What is Wide-Area-Microscopy (WAM)?
Wide area microscopy is a system where individuals without access to electron microscopes inhouse may utilize the EM remotely .
What do I need to use EMAnywhere?
To use EMAnywhere it is necessary to have access to the internet. It is advisable to have high speed internet access. Since the video feed uses a large bandwidth, the video quality is speed dependent.