How to Focus an Electron Microscope
Electron microscopes use electrons instead of photons for imaging. As a result, they cannot be as easily focused as with a traditional microscope. In a traditional microscope, focusing is achieved due to the movement of the respective lenses. In an electron microscope, the procedure is much more complex and varies greatly from unit to unit. Make sure you have your microscope's manual handy.
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Instructions
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Make sure that your sample is prepared. Some electron microscopes require a thin metal coating on all samples, while others can work with insulating materials as well. You sample will also typically need to be completely dry.
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Place the sample in the scope and engage the vacuum. Even for environmental scanning electron microscopes, a low pressure environment is required. Read the manual for your scope to find out how exactly to do this, as no two scopes are the same.
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Utilize the computer controls and physical controls to locate your sample. Your sample will be then located directly in the line of the beam, but will be likely out of focus. Usually, the controls meant for user use are easy to find.
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Utilizing the computer or external controls, manually adjust the focus of the beam. These controls will be quite clearly labeled. Other controls that affect focus include exposure and beam energy. These controls will vary with model and to find them, refer to your scope's manual.
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If focus cannot be achieved, then manual adjustment of the mechanisms is necessary, and requires a highly trained individual to make such adjustments. This should not be done by anyone who is not professionally trained.
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Tips & Warnings
Most electron microscopes come equipped with easy to use systems. Refer to the manual to find the specifics for your scope.
Make sure you are trained in using the device, and do not make any adjustments to the device unless you know what you are doing. These devices can cost upwards of six figures and more, and you and your job may be in jeopardy should you damage the equipment.
