Technical updates

MX1

Upgraded sample camera optics: High-res sample video microscope (coincident with the beam) for alignment of crystals to the x-ray beam embedded in the Blu-Ice User Interface. The new AreaVision interface allows users to take snapshots of their crystals in .jpg format.
2 wavelength multiple wavelength anomalous dispersion (MAD)
High resolution single wavelength anomalous dispersion (SAD)
Sample mounting robot (SSRL type) for robotic loading and centering of crystals
Remote access
Upgraded data security. Users will be now issued with a one-time password for use during their beamtime. This password will not work outside those beamtime hours. Access to user data after that time will be via VBL (virtual beamline).
New user cabins are at the MX beamlines. These offer noise reduction and greater environment control.
Access to beamline and data through VBL

Sample annealing in the cryo-stream using flipper, or 'credit-card' method
Screening server
Kappa gonio for full diffraction sphere coverage
User changeable energy is almost available. This is working in Blu-Ice but requires further validation and improvements for range and stability. It will be fully automated via new beam-steering feedback function. This is also enabled by the new AreaVision camera interface. *UPDATE* mechanical stability has been achieved and user changeable energy should be available in the second half of 2010.

MX2

Upgraded sample camera optics: High-res sample video microscope (coincident with the beam) for alignment of crystals to the x-ray beam embedded in the Blu-Ice User Interface. The new AreaVision interface allows users to take snapshots of their crystals in .jpg format.
New sample mounting microscopes – Leica M205C stereo microscope with (maximum) 20.5:1 zoom. Allows overview and detail observation using one instrument.
User changeable energy is now available. It is fully automated via new beam-steering feedback function. This is also enabled by the new AreaVision camera interface.
Upgraded data security. Users will be now issued with a one-time password for use during their beamtime. This password will not work outside those beamtime hours. Access to user data after that time will be via VBL (virtual beamline).
High resolution single wavelength anomalous dispersion (SAD)
Multiple wavelength anomalous dispersion (MAD)
Automated scans of metal edges for MAD and excitation scans (fluorescence scans)
Sample mounting robot (SSRL type) for robotic loading and centering of crystals.
Replacement MX2 sample motors with improved accuracy for positioning sample in the beam.
Remote Access
New user cabins are at the MX beamlines. These offer noise reduction and greater environment control.
A windows machine has been provided for our users
Access to beamline and data through VBL

Micro aperture to produce beam sizes of <10µm. System has been built and tested but needs to be integrated. This should be available in the second half of 2010.
User changeable sample light intensity.
Blu-Ice screening server
Use of 311 crystal to extend the energy range of the beamline
Kappa gonio for full diffraction sphere coverage.