Gatan Camera
NOTE: These instructions were written assuming that the TEM is on and running well with the image of interest on the fluorescent screen.
On the Gatan control box next the upper monitor, all of the green lights should be on, with the exception of the Data light, which will flash on and off when the scope is in use.
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2. In the Camera View panel, check the box labeled Camera Inserted. |
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| 3. In the Camera View panel, choose Setup > Focus. (Creates an image with fewer pixels-512x512, and a faster scan speed, used to quickly find an area worth imaging.) | VIEW | |||||
| 4. Change the Exposure Mode setting to Optimized. Click on Start View. | VIEW | |||||
5. Input the magnification you want to use in the dialog that pops up. Ensure you have entered the correct kV. The image will appear after you are done with this window. |
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6. Locate an area of interest. Adjust magnification, focus, and stigmators. In the Camera View panel, click on Stop View. |
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| 7. In the Camera View panel, choose Setup > Search. (Creates an image with more pixels-2048x2048, used for your final image.) | VIEW | |||||
| 8. Change the Exposure Mode setting to Auto. Click on Start View. | VIEW | |||||
9. Input the magnification you want to use in the dialog that pops up. Ensure you have entered the correct kV. The image will appear after you are done with this window. |
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10. Check the image quality and return to focus modes as necessary. NOTE: At higher magnifications, be aware of vibrations caused by movement or talking. This can disrupt the quality of the image. In the Camera View panel, click on Stop View. NOTE: ESC or SPACEBAR, when hit, will stop the frame immediately. This would be used if vibrations are an issue. IMPORTANT: When saturating the camera, make sure you spread the beam before opening the screen. A small beam spot can permanently burn the camera. |
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| 11. To find the correct brightness, hold the mouse cursor over the image intended to be captured and look in the Image Status panel. You should see a "Value" field. The number associated with it should be around 6000. This will yield a brightness level that creates a better quality image. If you cannot adjust the brightness fast enough, or if it is too high, close the screen over the camera to avoid any impending damage to the camera. | VIEW | |||||
12. Use one of two methods for taking an image. |
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12.1. Click Stop View. The display will lag and, shortly after, capture the image. | |
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12.2. Hit ESC on your keyboard, and the image on the display will quickly freeze. This is useful for fast captures. | |
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13. Save the image. |
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13.1. Click on the pull down bar File >Save As... Open up the "Users" folder, and find your name. Name your file and save it as a file type of Gatan Format (*.dm3). This format will only be accessible through Gatan DigitalMicrograph software. | VIEW | ||||
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13.2. Click on the pull down bar File > Save Display As... > Users >"Your Name". Name your file and save it as a file type of TIFF Format (*.tif). | VIEW | ||||
14. Quick file saving option: |
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 14.1. Click Global Info Icon (tool icon) and go to Save Numbered settings. |
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14.2. Use File Directory to set your save folder, set root filename with Building Using String, set Next Index to 1, Set File Content and Format > Save Image to Gatan Format. | VIEW | ||||
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14.3. Collect the image as usual. To save using quick method click the Save Numbered icon which saves image as Gatan .dm3 format. Then, to save the image in a standard .tif format, click Save Display icon and use the default filename or enter another filename of your choice. | VIEW | ||||
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1. Gatan DigitalMicrograph software used for the TEM will normally be open. If it is not, open it by double clicking the icon on the desktop. If the program is not open, the green LED light on the Gatan control box labeled "Cooler" will be off. The program may need 1 minute to load if it was found unopened.
