I have created a User friendly program that will extract the confocal
configuration information stored in either the *.TXT file generated by Leica
SP2 scopes, or from *.LIF files from SP5 scopes. Anyone can run it from
Microsoft Excel 2003-2007 (As long as the Macros are allowed to run). We
are part of a multi-user facility and this comes in handy to view the
acquisition parameters for various users and to troubleshoot the imaging
techniques. It is only for Leica confocal scopes. Although, there are
other non-confocal Leica scopes that run LASAF and generate *.LIF files, I
have not tailored the script for those files. I may do that in the future.
I believe it is at the point where I feel confident sharing this with other
users who are interested. I designed the script specifically for our
systems, but it should be fairly universal, especially with the SP5s.
Some of the older versions of SP2 may not work properly. We have SP2 scopes
with and without 405 lasers, and with and without 358 UV. It will in no
way change the original TXT or LIF files. Although, the LIF extractor will
generate an .XML file (of the same name) in the folder where the LIF file is
located. So be sure to select from *.LIF files from folders which you have
full access.
It is by no means perfect, but I created it to help diagnose other users
imaging problems, after the images have been acquired. It works well with
our machines. I can not guarantee they will work with yours.
If you wish to obtain a copy, please send me an email and please put the
word Extractor in the subject heading. I will try to respond as quickly
as possible. I will also send you a sample worksheet of the data output so
you know what it looks like.
If you have questions, I will respond to them in the public forum as quickly
as i can. If I get a large response, I will likely not have time to
respond personally to everyone. I apologize in advance. If I had a
website, I would attach it, but I do not. If someone wishes to post it on
their web site or modify it, please go ahead, just let me know. I am solely
responsible for the content. I built part of the program based on script
written by Christof Schwiening. I learned visual basic on my own and this
script is very crude, but it works. Feel free to edit it, but be warned,
even I sometimes get lost in the program.
Happy Imaging!!!!
Matthew
My contact info
[hidden email]
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Matthew J. Gastinger, PhD
Staff-Contractor
Biological Imaging Facility/RTB
NIAID/NIH
Bldg 4 Rm B2-30
4 Center Drive
Bethesda, MD 20892
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