The EM VCT500 is a vacuum cryo transfer system that moves samples between preparation and analysis equipment in a controlled environment. It achieves this at ambient and cryogenic temperatures, under vacuum and in protected atmospheres. Users can preserve sample integrity during handoffs by using active sample cooling, a novel valve concept, and docking-based temperature and vacuum monitoring.
Key Features
- With up to three sample holders and three transfer modes for connecting preparation methods to analysis systems such as Cryo-SEM, Cryo-TEM, and Cryo-CLEM, the Leica EM VCM improves workflow connectivity across devices.
- Connect sample loading to vacuum transfer processes by loading onto the Leica EM VCM station and transferring under vacuum with active sample cooling via the EM VCT500 shuttle.
- Samples can be moved at cryogenic or ambient temperatures, under vacuum, or in a protected atmosphere, ensuring that workflow steps remain connected.
- Active sample cooling and a novel valve architecture maximize handoffs between preparation and analysis systems, enhancing transfer control and stability.
- When transferring samples between systems, vacuum cryo transfer can help lower the risk of contamination and ice crystal formation.
- With both standard and bespoke sample holders, and an EM VCT500 configuration tailored to individual needs, users can adjust the transfer arrangement to suit the application.
- The temperature and vacuum can be checked at any point during the docking workflow to monitor key metrics.