Breakerspace Instrument Tutorial Template
Overview:
Matches info/image for instrument on lab page, brief description of what it does/how it works/what materials it’s used for
Index:
Standard operating protocol:
Instrument startup:
- sequence of powering on, logging in, starting softare, homing/tilt position etc.
- these steps should only need to be completed once per session
- no images on page in this section, just text bullets, text can link to image if needed
Operation:
- steps to characterize - sample loading, data capture and saving, etc. - whatever might be repeated, characterization sequence
- for instruments like SEM with multiple, independent characterization techniques (eg. EDS, imaging), make technique a top-level bullet and indent for steps
- this is tabbed in to be a sub-set of the above bullet
Instrument shut down:
- sequence to close/log off/power down as needed - whatever is done once at the conclusion of a session
- highlight important steps in bold (ie. make sure UV-Vis lamp is OFF)
- these steps should need to be performed once at the end of a characterization session
Compatible materials and sample prep:
- compatible materials
- incompatible materials
- safety/handling related info
- images/videos inline as needed
Sample Prep may be own sub-section:
- sample prep
- break into sub-sections as relevant,
- ie. solid vs. powder vs. liquid
Detailed operating instructions:
- include sample loading/unloading
- as needed explanations of each step, eg. collecting background, sample loading, etc.
- software features
- images/videos inline as needed
Data processing and analysis:
- what softare we recommend
- typical steps
- fill in with more detail as time allows, and/or add standalone data processing tutorials
- images/videos inline as needed
Common failure modes:
- these are where people frequently get stuck
- example may include starting DSX software before microscope powered up
- images/videos inline as needed
Manufacturer’s manuals:
- Links to manual files in dropbox
Links:
- list of links, ie. good video tutorials, some student project, anything relevant
Exercises:
- intro for anyone - eg honey bee on optical
- beginner exercise for course 3 subjects - identify and measure types of grain in metal sample,
- advanced exercise - deconvolution of compound sample from spectrometer, etc.