Posted by
Glen MacDonald-2 on
URL: http://confocal-microscopy-list.275.s1.nabble.com/worth-paying-for-service-contract-on-Olympus-Fluoview-confocal-tp6592259p6596047.html
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Dear Vernita,
You will pay for service one way or another. some of the lasers are inexpensive, others are very pricey, but you will need someone to select the correct laser, launch it and align it. Our FV-1000 has been running 2800 hrs/yr for the past 5 years. All lasers have been replaced at least once, a couple were replaced twice. Only 1 minor repair to the IX-81, but a lot of fussing with their old dual monitor computer configuration which was resolved by replacing with a single 30" monitor. These probably averaged less than $20,000/yr in out of pocket expenses. The peace of mind, troubleshooting time and coverage for catastrophic events is priceless. What happens when (not if) 2 or 3 lasers go out at once? Its not the sophistication of your imaging methods that causes service calls, its about user hours, mechanical problems, user impact (figuratively and literally), computer issues and advice for configuring filters, etc.
Regards,
Glen
Glen MacDonald
Center for Human Development and Disability
Box 357920
University of Washington
Seattle, WA 98195-7920 USA
(206) 616-4156
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On Jul 17, 2011, at 9:38 AM, Vernita Gordon wrote:
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>
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>
> Hello,
>
> I am a new assistant professor still settling into my lab (and still working
> entirely off startup funds). A little less than a year ago, I bought an
> Olympus Fluoview laser-scanning confocal microscope. This came with a
> one-year service contract. Renewing that service contract for next year
> will cost $20k.
>
> We don't do very demanding things on this confocal and so far haven't had
> problems with it. My question is, does anyone have perspective on whether
> paying for this service contract is worthwhile?
>
> I am leaning toward not doing so and hoping things continue to go well, but
> this is also my first time working with an Olympus confocal and I don't have
> a good sense for whether or not I should expect problems (and, if they
> arise, if they're likely to cost more than $20k to fix).
>
> Thanks,
>
> Vernita