User manual LEICA EM GP BROCHURE

[. . . ] Imaging macromolecular assemblies, viruses and cells in their native, hydrated environment in the cryo-TEM is the state-of-theart technique in electron microscopy, providing maximum resolution with minimal specimen damage. Although a simple method, it is imperative that the suspension thickness on the grid can be reproduced and vitreous ice can be formed, otherwise much time is wasted loading useless samples into the cryo-TEM. The sample film is only tens to hundreds of nanometers thick and so can be easily influenced by temperature shifts and humidity prior to freezing. If the humidity is too low then the film breaks due to it quickly drying. [. . . ] The environmental chamber envelopes the grid and forceps, providing a temperature and humidity controlled protective environment variable between +4° and +60°C and room humidity to 99%. To provide a clear view, an anti-fogging heater keeps the glass window clear. Blotting Excess fluid is removed by automatic blotting which can be initiated in two ways: 1. Autoblotting ­ after the suspension has been pipetted onto the grid and the button pressed, the blotter automatically moves to the pre-set blot position for the user-programmed time before plunging of the grid. Sensor control ­ the most automated method of plunging. After pressing the plunge button the blotter moves towards the grid. A photosensor detects the moment the droplet touches the grid and the blotting time countdown begins. The grid is then either held for the desired length of time (to allow redistribution of fluid for example) or immediately plunged into the secondary cryogen. Blotting and plunging can be activated via the touch screen or footswitch. Pipette port (also on right side) Forceps with grid in blotting position Magnetic holder for blotting paper Blotter Covered exit port to ethane 4 Viewing system The Leica EM GP has an optional stereomicroscope to aid alignment and sample preparation. The LED illumination, fixed both inside the environmental chamber and beaming down onto the Dewar, provides excellent high light levels for observation of the complete preparation and plunging process. The Dewar After switching on the Leica EM GP, the 1 liter Dewar can be filled with LN2 before liquefying the secondary cryogen, usually ethane. A full Dewar lasts for approximately 1 hour between refilling. Liquefying the secondary cryogen is fast, easy and safe with the liquefying head. The head is connected to the secondary cryogen regulator of the gas bottle and the gas slowly fed in. It condenses within seconds, taking about one minute to fill the 2. 5 ml container. A cover is provided to prevent LN2 splashing into the ethane on subsequent refilling of the LN2. The temperature of the secondary cryogen can be controlled precisely from the control panel. A container, filled with LN2, sits in the Dewar to hold a grid box for transfer of prepared, vitrified samples. Liquefier in place over ethane container in Dewar After freezing the grid remains in or above the ethane (depending upon user settings) ready for transfer to the grid box 5 Control Panel Operation is via touch screen control with all adjustable parameters visible. Program screen All parameters can be adjusted and set for up to 10 programs. In the Setup menu the positioning of the grid relative to the blotter can be adjusted and also the transfer position after plunging. Safety The Leica EM GP operates under strict safety conditions. During any movement of the environmental chamber a large red STOP Main screen button appears on the control panel. [. . . ] +65 6779 7823 Fax +61 2 9878 1055 Fax +43 1 486 80 50 30 Fax +32 2 790 98 68 Fax +1 905 762 8937 Fax +45 4454 0111 Fax +33 1 56 05 23 23 Fax +49 64 41 29 41 55 Fax +39 02 574 03392 Fax +81 3 5421 2896 Fax +82 2 514 65 48 Fax +31 70 4132 109 Fax +852 2564 4163 Fax +351 21 385 4668 Fax +65 6773 0628 Fax +34 93 494 95 32 Fax +46 8 625 45 10 Fax +41 71 726 34 44 Fax +44 1908 609 992 Fax +1 847 405 0164 · Industry Division The Leica Microsystems Industry Division's focus is to support customers' pursuit of the highest quality end result. Leica Microsystems provide the best and most innovative imaging systems to see, measure, and analyze the microstructures in routine and research industrial applications, materials science, quality control, forensic science investigation, and educational applications. · Biosystems Division The Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division brings histopathology labs and researchers the highest-quality, most comprehensive product range. From patient to pathologist, the range includes the ideal product for each histology step and high-productivity workflow solutions for the entire lab. With complete histology systems featuring innovative automation and NovocastraTM reagents, Leica Microsystems creates better patient care through rapid turnaround, diagnostic confidence, and close customer collaboration. Barcelona Kista Heerbrugg Milton Keynes Bannockburn/lllinois Tel. [. . . ]