A scanning electron microscope going offline isn't just an equipment problem.

It's a project delay. A conversation you weren't ready to have. A timeline that just got complicated.

Most labs have a plan for routine maintenance. Very few have a plan for unexpected downtime or for what to do when repair isn't the right answer anymore.

Whether your SEM needs a repair, an upgrade, a relocation, or a bridge solution while your system is offline, SEMTech Solutions supports labs through every phase of the SEM lifecycle. Below, we've outlined the most common situations we help customers navigate and the options available at each stage.

Option 1: Repair, Upgrade, or Replace?

When an SEM fails, the first question is often:

Is it worth repairing or is it time to upgrade or replace the system?

The answer depends on several factors:

• Age and condition of the SEM
• Availability of replacement parts
• Application requirements
• Required uptime
• Budget considerations
• Future expansion plans

In many cases, repairs and targeted upgrades can significantly extend the life of an SEM while minimizing downtime and cost. In other situations, transitioning into a refurbished or replacement SEM may provide better long-term reliability and performance.

Our service team helps customers evaluate all available options to determine the most practical and cost-effective path forward.

Not sure if repair or replacement makes more sense for your system? The answer usually comes down to four factors. We broke them down in detail.

Option 2: Keep Your Workflow Moving with Analytical Lab Services

While your instrument is offline, your deadlines aren't.

SEMTech's Analytical Testing Laboratory can step in as a direct bridge, handling imaging, failure analysis, and materials characterization while your system is repaired, upgraded, or replaced. No project interruption. No waiting.

Our analytical lab services can assist customers with:

• SEM imaging and analysis
• Failure analysis
• Materials characterization
• Sample evaluation
• Temporary overflow support
• Urgent project timelines

For many customers, the analytical lab is the bridge that keeps research programs, manufacturing support, and customer deliverables on track while their system is offline.

Option 3: Moving Your SEM?

SEM relocations are increasingly common as laboratories evolve.

Many moves occur because facilities are:

• Expanding research capabilities
• Installing new instrumentation
• Reconfiguring cleanroom space
• Consolidating departments
• Making room for next-generation equipment

Moving a scanning electron microscope involves much more than transportation alone. Proper deinstallation, packing, rigging, environmental planning, reinstallation, and calibration are all critical to protecting system performance.

SEMTech Solutions provides complete SEM relocation services designed to minimize risk and downtime during transitions.

A bad relocation can take a functioning SEM offline for weeks. Here's what a properly managed move actually involves and what to consider before your move.

Every SEM situation is different. Our team has seen most of them.

If your SEM is currently offline, or your lab is planning a move or upgrade, we're straightforward to talk to. Tell us what's going on and we'll help you figure out the best path forward.

Work Smarter With Your SEM