Complete at least two (2) training sessions with staff and demonstrate safe and competent operation of the tool to receive independent access (Prime time only: 9-5 weekdays.)
Staff may require (or users may request) additional training before access is granted.
Additional training for advanced techniques available upon request.
24/7 access may be granted at staff’s discretion after completing at least 4 hours of independent use on the tool without incident.
Staff may require refresher trainings after a period of disuse (e.g. 6 months) or if a user has demonstrated a lack of competency or understanding on the tool.
When in doubt, ask for help.
Clean up after yourself.
Reserve the tool in NEMO, then enable when you start and disable when you finish.
Report problems through NEMO.
Always wear gloves when handling anything that goes inside the SEM (including but not limited to: samples, stubs, and sample holders.)
Do not overtighten set screws (or remove them, unless necessary.)
Ensure samples are secure on their stubs or holders.
Use an appropriate stage and sample holder.
Check that the stage (X,Y) is close to (0,0).
If the stage tilt is not at 0 when vented, contact staff for assistance.
Do not overtighten set screws (or remove them, unless necessary.)
Carefully handle additional detectors by the widest part and mind the pole piece when loading them into the chamber. Check the vacuum selection to ensure the detector is properly loaded.
Images are stored on the support computer under the left side of the main console. It is the middle of the three computers.
Use a flash drive to remove your images.
Images are periodically deleted when the drive has too little free space (every few months.)
Respect other users if they are operating the SEM when you come to retrieve your images.