Here are are some things to keep in mind based on my experience setting up microscopy facilities. The manufactures should give you information for the specific instruments (especially the footprint and electrical requirements).
Electricity: Minimum of eight duplex outlets at each microscope with separate circuits for arc lamps and lasers from electronics. Most of the outlets should be above the desk level for easy access.
Lighting: Dark areas around each microscope. Black curtains work fine. Lighting that can be dimmed. Controls near the microscope or additional plug-in lamps.
Networking: Two internet connections for each microscope; one for the computer, one for a personal laptop. Maybe wireless?
Telephone: Access at each microscope for discussion with service people. A wireless portable phone that can reach each microscope is sufficient.
General utilities: Drop electricity, gas, vacuum etc from the ceiling onto the table so you can walk completely around without jumping over wires,etc.
Space: Enough space for the microscope and peripherals. Space for several people around the microscope in order to use it as a teaching lab. Space next to each microscope for a work table and desk top for the computer. At least 18 inches clearance behind the computer/microscope tables for access to cables. Wall space for white boards, posters. You may want to locate the lasers in a separate room for noise, ventilation, vibration and cooling purposes.
Temperature control/ventilation: Sufficient cooling for lamps, lasers, electronics, multiple people. (chilled water for cooling lasers?) There is probably no need to have the space under negative or positive air pressure.
Plumbing: House air, house vacuum at each scope for air tables, aspirating samples. I don't think you need gas.
Sample preparation: Space, electricity, plumbing for tissue culture hood, CO2 incubator, (incubators for bacteria, yeast?), table top centrifuge, sink, work space and some storage space. The hood will need a vacuum line. I don't think you need gas. The incubator will need CO2. You might need an emergency eyewash and shower here.
Storage: Some shelves near each microscope for equipment manuals, etc. Some users may have accessories that they can not easily transport each time they come. You may consider providing some drawer space for users. Space for tools.
Security: card key access to the center, but probably not necessary for access to individual microscopes.
Miscellaneous: Work space for equipment repair. Office space.
Get it all approved by the Department of Environmental Health and Safety.
We are contemplating building a multi-user imaging room containing 3 confocals, 2 2-photon confocals, 1-2 widefield scopes. We would isolate parts of the room with curtains.Has anyone constructed such a room and can send plans and/or recommendations about construction, utilities, etc? Photos might help too.Thanks for your help.Milton CharltonMilton P. Charlton, Professor
Physiology Department
Medical Science Building #3308
University of Toronto
1 King's College Circle
Toronto, ON, M5S1A8
Canada
tel: 416-978-6355
fax: 416-978-4940
[hidden email]
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