Public-opened Internet Electron Microscopy 2005 in Japan ---- Remote-control SEM and TEM for High-school Users ----

Abstract

Public-opened Internet Electron Microscopy (POIT-EM) has successfully been developed in National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), Tsukuba, Japan. Real-time observation and analysis of various samples can be performed from anyplace in the world (Fig. 1). This system uses data encryption and security mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users can access to the POIT-EM network. The client computers run on Windows XP. All kinds of operations necessary for the remote control of the SEM and TEM can be performed through the Internet; turning-on high voltage and changing magnification, focus, brightness and contrast. Previous systems based on a similar concept have been constructed for research purposes on ultra-high voltage microscopes 1-4. Unlike these systems, POIT-EM system is not only for researchers but also for educational purposes for young people.

Accessible Elements: Teaching Science Online and at a Distance

“…For example, the astronomical camera called "Stardial" delivers images of the night sky in real time (McCullough & Thakkar, 1997), and our own university houses a geomagnetic observatory to study the northern lights that includes spectacular 360° images of the night sky which can be accessed remotely (Donovan et al, 2006). There are also Internet controlled electron microscope sites such as "Bugscope" (Potter et al, 2001) and "POIT-EM" (Furuya et al, 2005), which accept and prepare mailed-in specimens for observation. Students then log on at scheduled times to carry out their observations.…”

Development and Application of an Internet Electron Microscopy System for the Outreach Program in Japan

“…We have created a remote operation electron microscopy system based on Web-SEM in the National Institute for Materials Science~NIMS!, Tsukuba, Japan, and have run it for 5 years~Furuya et , 2005Tameike et al, 2004!. This system, called the Internet Electron Microscopy System IT-EM!, is intended to contribute mainly to scientific education but is also useful for research collaboration. Because it focuses principally on practical use, the convenience of remote operation and security of the sessions are the top priority.…”