*Note: This page was translated by AI from the Japanese original. In case of any discrepancy, the Japanese version shall prevail.*
During an inspection around 8:00 AM on Saturday, August 8, 2026, we confirmed that two Transmission Electron Microscopes (TEMs) in Room 1-105 had completely shut down, along with errors occurring on several other instruments.
■ Summary & Affected Equipment
– **Occurred Around**: Saturday, August 8, 2026, approx. 4:00 AM (based on error log analysis)
– **Affected Instruments**:
– Two TEMs in Room 1-105 (Complete shutdown)
– Other instruments without UPS or CVCF protection (PC resets, error displays, etc.)
– *Note: The Sputter Ion Pump (SIP) on 002B is currently non-operational. We are monitoring the condition, and replacement is planned within the year.*
■ Cause
While the cause has not been definitively confirmed, it is presumed to be temporary abnormal voltage or a momentary power outage caused by frequent lightning strikes recorded in Sendai City early in the morning on August 8.
■ Current Status & Next Steps
– Restart of cooling water systems and vacuum pumps has been completed.
– As the facility is currently in summer recess until Monday, August 17, full inspection and operational checks will be conducted after the break (starting Tuesday, August 18).
■ Important Notice for Users
Due to sudden forced shutdowns, instrument settings may have changed, or minor malfunctions may occur.
Depending on the inspection results, machine time schedules after the holiday period may be affected or delayed. We kindly ask for your understanding in advance.
Further updates regarding recovery and machine time impact will be posted as soon as status checks are finalized.
■ Contact
Division of Analytical Electron Microscopy, ARCAM, IMR, Tohoku University