CM12 Cryoelectron Microscope

This is our Philips CM12 cryoelectron microscope for routine use, which operates at 120 kV and is used for surveying crystallization trials and frozen-hydrated samples to be used for structure determination. The intensified TV camera from Gatan Corp. is convenient for a group of people viewing the speciman, or, when coupled to a frame-grabber (Data Translation 3152), for obtaining an instant image using ImageTool. This image can be Fourier transformed with Photoshop plugins to check resolution or defocus levels, or simply be archived in one's lab notebook.

One of the major characteristics of this CM microscope is that it has a control panel (the majority is located to the right of the column and a few to the left below the TV screen) significantly different from that commonly used in transmission electron microscopy. The rationalisation of the control components has led to a significantly reduced number of controls. All details can be found in Philips Operating Instructions for CM12 Electron Microscope (Doc# PW6030), a copy of which is on the shelve in Room EM2.

Main Features of the Microscope