PELCO easiGlow™ Glow Discharge Cleaning System
The Ultimate Grid Preparation Tool: The PELCO easiGlow™ is a compact, microprocessor-controlled glow discharge cleaning system designed for TEM grid hydrophilic treatment. Optimized for Cryo-EM glow discharge protocols, it renders carbon support films hydrophilic, ensuring perfect aqueous sample spreading for high-resolution imaging.
Made in USA | 1 Year Warranty
Consistent TEM Grid Surface Activation
Cleaning TEM grids and modifying surface properties is a critical step in Cryo-EM sample preparation. The PELCO easiGlow™ simplifies this process using an intelligent touchscreen plasma cleaner interface. By applying a controlled air plasma TEM grids treatment, the system removes hydrocarbon contamination and converts the surface from hydrophobic to hydrophilic.
This hydrophilicity TEM supports treatment allows aqueous solutions to spread evenly, preventing droplet bunching and ensuring uniform ice thickness for vitrification.
Advanced Features for Reliability
Unlike manual systems, the easiGlow features a microprocessor controlled discharge with a unique proportional vacuum valve. This ensures the vacuum level is maintained precisely at the optimal range (0.20 - 1.1 mbar) without manual needle valve adjustments. The gentle venting system prevents sample disturbance after the cycle is complete.
It supports flexible protocols including:
- Negative Glow Discharge: Standard air plasma for hydrophilization.
- Positive Charge Treatment: Using Magnesium Acetate for specific DNA/protein adhesion.
- Hydrophobic Treatment: Using Alkylamine for specific surface requirements.
System Specifications
The system is a compact, standalone unit that includes a glass chamber, two gas inlets for Argon oxygen plasma or air, and an automated process timer.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Plasma Current | 0 - 30 mA (Adjustable) |
| Vacuum Control | Automated Pirani Gauge & Proportional Valve |
| Operation Modes | Auto (Programmed), Manual |
| Chamber Size | Ø120 x 100mm H (Glass) |
| Gas Inlets | Two separate inlets (Process / Vent) |
| Polarity | Selectable Positive / Negative |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do I need to glow discharge my grids?
Freshly coated carbon grids (like Quantifoil or UltrAuFoil) are naturally hydrophobic. Glow discharge TEM preparation renders them hydrophilic, allowing your liquid sample to spread thinly and evenly across the holes.
2. Does this system require a vacuum pump?
Yes. The easiGlow requires a rotary vacuum pump (minimum 2.5 m³/hr). We offer a matching pumping system (GD4) that connects directly to the unit for seamless operation.
3. Can it do positive discharge?
Yes. The system allows for negative glow discharge (standard) or positive discharge by simply switching the polarity in the software and using a specific atmosphere (e.g., air with magnesium acetate).
4. Is the venting gentle enough for delicate films?
Absolutely. The system features a specialized "Soft Vent" cycle that slowly brings the chamber back to atmospheric pressure, preventing delicate carbon films from breaking due to turbulence.
5. How many grids can I treat at once?
Using the standard glass slide holder or the optional Grid Holder Block, you can treat dozens of grids simultaneously, ensuring high throughput for busy EM labs.
