The CMSE shared experimental facilities offer an extensive range of materials characterization instrumentation.  Here is some general information for new users from the MIT community:

Access:

• In most cases, users are expected to learn to operate the instrumentation themselves.   Training will, of course, be offered to new users.  Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible for the staff to run the instruments for the user.
• Booking policies vary from facility to facility, and from instrument to instrument.   Ask for details.
• After suitable training, MIT users may, in most cases, apply for and be granted 24-hour access to the facilities.   This is made available by activiating the user's MIT Card to open the electronic door locks.
• Undergraduate students are not granted 24 hour privileges.
• Non-MIT users are not granted 24-hour privileges.
• Users found abusing their privileges will be denied access to the instrumentation during evening/weekend hours, or, in extreme cases, altogether.  "Abuse" may include, for example:
          - Persistent careless operation leading to difficulties for following users or damage to the hardware
          - Repeated failure to record useage in the log system
          - Repeated failure to use time that was reserved
          - Failure to follow operating practices in such a way that, in the opinion of the facility manager, the results acquired have no value
          - Acting, or failing to act, in such a way as to create a hazard, or failing to respond responsibly to an actual hazard
          - Etc., etc., etc.

Payment:

• There is a charge for ALL use of the facilities, except for general enquiries.   Users MUST come to the facility prepared to give their MIT account number for charging purposes.  Requisitions or Purchase Orders are not required and cannot be used for MIT users.
• The account number is automatically checked by the logkeeping system as being valid at the time of the use.  Any person unable to offer a number passing the check at the time of the measurement will be fined the equivalent of one half hour of assisted time, to reimburse the center for the cost of manually processing the charge.
• Rates for internal MIT use are available HERE

Back

AJG-R 05/22/2008