Remote operation of electron microscopes

Due to the availability of fast local computer networks such as Ethernet and FDDI and fast point-to-point connections such as T1 and T3 links, the idea of telemicroscopy, including remote control of electron microscopes has gained momentum. Ellisman (1995), Fan et al. (1993), Parvin et al. (1995), and Zaluzec (1995) have discussed facets of systems which support such capabilities. In each of these reports the authors describe new stand-alone software packages that are required to run their systems. To make remote microscopy more universally available, we required the use of commercial software only and demanded scripting capabilities. By (1) expanding the de facto standard software DigitalMicrograph to include a complete set of SET and GET commands for microscope control, (2) using the software TimbuktuPro to provide remote control capabilities, and (3) using CUSeeMe and other video conferencing hardware and software for telecommunication, all our requirements were met. All three software packages together then provide remote microscope operation capabilities and an open system architecture (through the scripting language) for future design of automated procedures and telecommunication (Dodson et al. 1995, Gatan Inc., Voelkl et al. 1995a). The route for remote microscopy operation described herein allows microscope operation through local networks, the internet, and point-to-point connections with varying performance, and across Windows, Windows95, and Macintosh platforms. The expenses for the remote user are essentially defined by the price tags on establishing and maintaining the communication lines and the video conference tool of choice. This general approach has recently been demonstrated at the SuperComputing '95 conference in San Diego, Calif.