
ATUMtome: Automated Tape Collecting Ultramicrotome
The ATUMtome is capable of collecting very large sets of serial sections (30,000+) in an unattended and computer-controlled operation, to help reconstruct the brain’s neural pathways — a precursor to one day mapping the entire human brain. The ATUM is connected to and controlled by RMC Boeckeler’s PowerTome ultramicrotome, to form the ATUMtome (Automatic Tape Collecting Ultramicrotome). While developed initially for the neurosciences, the versatile nature of serial collection combined with the precise and robust capabilities of the PowerTome, has seen the use of the ATUMtome expand into other research areas.
Manufacturer
RMC Boeckeler
Boeckeler Instruments engineers sample preparation equipment for nanoscale research, under the RMC Boeckeler product line. Their solutions are employed in both life sciences and materials research, with special emphasis in sample preparation for 3D electron microscopy.

The ATUMtome
Key Features
- Collects hundreds to thousands of sections on a continuous tape
- Non-destructive to sample, with sections available for years into the future for processing, post-staining, immunogold labelling, correlative imaging — and at any work pace desired
- Section thickness can range from 0nm to 15μm
- Determines sample viability sooner in the process so you don’t waste valuable time cutting and imaging a problem sample
- Uses multiple resolutions for locating regions of interest, then zooming in for higher resolution imaging
- Allows correlative microscopy for localisation and then ultra-structural imaging
- Prepares samples that allow short pixel dwell time for fast detection of images during electron microscopy
- Uses standard sample preparation techniques and resins
- Charging effect on sections is manageable
- Priced at a fraction of the cost of alternative 3D imaging techniques

Description
The ATUMtome is a unique system for collecting sections on a continuous tape. Typically, a resin-embedded specimen is used on the ultramicrotome to cut serial sections that then float on a surface of the water in the diamond knife trough. The ATUMtome moves a continuous ribbon of tape through this water trough, automatically removing the serial section from the water surface in sequence. After the sections are collected, the tape is mounted onto a silicon wafer substrate or glass slides. The sections are now ready for imaging with a scanning electron microscope or via other microscopy techniques.
Includes
- ATUM continuous tape feed mechanism with PC touchscreen control
- PowerTome PTPCZ with HD video package
- Air-activated anti-vibration table with compressor and ergonomic lab chair
- Diatome ultra maxi diamond knife, 4mm, 35 °
- Start-up supply of Kapton tape
- 4" diameter silicon wafers
- Environmental chamber
- Anti-static device
- Water level control system
- Wafer workstation
Applications
Neuroscience Research
Biological Research
New Materials Research
Serial Section
Correlative Microscopy
3D Reconstruction
Downloads

ATUMtome Datasheet
Options
Optional Accessories and Consumables Available For Purchase
- Diatome ATUM Sonic Knife with Controller, 3mm, 35°
- Uncoated Kapton tape, 33 metres
- Uncoated Kapton tape, glow discharged, 33 metres
- 4" diameter silicon wafers
- Carrier box for 25 numbers of 4" diameter wafers
- Carrier box for 1 number of 4" diameter wafers
- Double sided carbon conductive tape, 25mm x 5m
- Double sided carbon conductive tape 12mm x 5m
- Handle, scalpel
- Blade, scalpel, pack of 5
Service Support
Comprehensive repairs and servicing
Annual Support Programs
Your metrology instrumentation is a major investment that is critical to your business operation and success. In today’s competitive climate, it is more important than ever to extend the functionality and peak performance of your metrology equipment years beyond the expiration of your factory warranty. CN Tech’s Support Programs will help ensure that your investment is protected, and that you and your instrument’s are always operating at peak performance.
With over 20 years’ experience servicing and repairing you can be assured that your system is in safe hands. The independent services we offer include system relocation, maintenance visits, parts and consumables, and break down interventions.
CN Tech’s Support Programs are an economical way to guarantee optimal working condition:
- Annual Preventive Maintenance
- Priority Technical Assistance
- Preferred Parts Availability
- On-Site User Training
- Remote Diagnostics
- No surprise repair expense and much more!
Support Contact Example
An example of our service and support contracts are shown below:

Metrology & Instrumentation Annual Support Programs 2022/23
CN Tech's Support Programs will help ensure that your investment is protected, and that you and your instrument’s are always operating at peak performance.