Computer networked scanning electron microscope for teaching, research, and industry applications

A laboratory designed for teaching the operation of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) has been developed. The laboratory makes use of a computer network to allow remote operation of the SEM. Movable teaching stations, consisting of a computer, TV monitor, and joystick control, enable students to view the image on the SEM screen, move the sample, control the basic operating parameters of the microscope, and acquire X-ray spectra. Images can also be stored on the computers for image analysis or incorporation into reports. The great advantage of the system is that it has been designed to be flexible enough to allow operation from any location that has access to the Internet. The system is relatively inexpensive and uses nonproprietary computer technology available at any computer store. While the laboratory has been designed for teaching, the concept of a multiuser SEM facility that is inexpensive and easy to install should have applications in both industrial and research settings.