Remote Operation of a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) from Distant Classrooms

Abstract

California State University, Hayward (CSUH) has successfully demonstrated remote operation of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) using several networking interfaces. One of these methods is the use of highbandwidth asynchronous transfer mode (ATM). The different networking schemes have made it possible for instructors and researchers to access and control the Cal State Hayward SEM from classrooms located within the same building housing the microscope. In addition, the microscope has been remotely operated from across campus, from the local community college, and from San Jose State University.The development of digital imaging technology provides opportunities of developing networking schemes for access and control of scientific instrumentation. The ability to network microscopes offers the capability of teaching microscopy methods to a large number of students at the same time. The traditional microscopy class includes the instructor training one student at a time while other students observe the operator of the instrument. Remote shared access to scientific instrumentation provides the advantages of a wider variety of resources and pooling of knowledge by a larger community.