Software-controlled microscopy is the catchphrase. New technologies and the opportunities offered by them have changed the way people work at the microscope and the entire world of the laboratory. Dr Manfred Kässens reports.
In conjunction with image processing software, scenarios once thought impossible are now becoming reality. Images and data can now be digitally acquired, transmitted, saved and analysed, maximising efficiency. Microscopes can be completely automated, remote controlled and included in comprehensive workflow structures. That is what exploiting digital technology to the fullest is all about. This is where analySIS comes into play, the universal imaging platform by Soft Imaging System.
The concept behind analySIS is its architecture, which is systematically orientated towards the requirements, needs and workflows of the microscopy field.
The software offers enormous latitude regarding image and data display. It ensures effective image and data processing in all dimensions. analySIS FIVE is available in three different levels: docu, auto and pro
AnalySIS ensures smooth data exchange with all kind of microscopes (LM, TEM, SEM, FIB). A broad range of data from other typical microscopes hardware and software components - such as microscopes, cameras, motorised stages, shutters, etc can be controlled by analySIS directly. With a mere click of a button, images are acquired. Images are correctly calibrated automatically and include all microscope parameters. Within analySIS, the images can be processed, analysed, archived and documented.
Managing all results is done via an integrated archive. A report generator is included for professional presentation of results. AnalySIS controls connected devices, allowing complex processes to be automated.
Ideally, the entire workflow, from first to last step, can all be conducted within analySIS.
One of analySIS's distinguishing features is how easily it can be expanded and used in combination with Soft Imaging System's own highly specialised software extensions. These software extensions extend analySIS's range of functions for solving specific microscopy tasks.
These include eg: metrological measurement methods; fluorescence imaging, automatic particle analysis; 3D visualisation and analysis; and a whole array of automation possibilities.
Being able to use the microscope for image and data acquisition only, however, is highly efficient.
All other tasks can be done at separate workstations. This adivision of labour' can be put into practice by increasing the number of licenses available in a lab.
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Dr Manfred Kässens is with Soft Imaging System, Münster, Germany. www.soft-imaging.net
