Nanometre Precision
Accurate Z-scaling in 3D volume data demands precise, repeatable stepping in the Z-direction. Our ultra-fast motor-driven sample stage delivers 1 nm stepping resolution through a closed-loop feedback mechanism.
katanamicrotome
A microtome that transforms your SEM to a volume SEM
Universal Compatibility
Engineered to only 56 mm (2.2") in height, katana is compatible with nearly all SEMs. It seamlessly attaches or detaches from an SEM stage, effortlessly switching your standard SEM to a high-throughput volume imaging system and back, maximising your instrument's potential.
Ultrasonic Cutting
Reducing cutting forces to improve thin cutting performance by oscillating the diamond at ultrasonic speed. The FEA-optimised diamond knife oscillates at amplitudes up to 200 nm, preserving your specimen’s integrity.
Large Volume
With 5 mm of knife travel, 1.3 mm of Z-stage range, and a 1.5 mm-wide diamond knife, katana can section samples as large as 1 mm³ in a single experiment.
See katana in Action
Smart Data Acquisition with Samurai 3
Dynamic tile selection
Selects only the tiles containing your region of interest, dramatically reducing acquisition time and storage.
Time traveling
Travel forward to preset microtome or imaging parameters for upcoming cycles, or jump back to revisit previously imaged slices. Dynamically plan and adapt your experiments on the fly.
Debris detection
Automatically identifies debris on the block face and re-cuts or skips affected regions to maintain data quality.
Autofocus
Continuously maintains sharp focus across the entire imaging area, compensating for sample drift and tilt in real time.
Fault-tolerant persistence
If the power cuts or a system failure occurs, all acquisition state persists in a database and can be reloaded instantly — zero data loss, zero re-work.
Experience Samurai 3 in your browser — no installation required
Applications
Flatworm Macrostomum Lignano
M. lignano is a transparent, regenerative flatworm used as a model organism in stem cell biology and aging research. The katana microtome captures its full 3D architecture at nanometre resolution — revealing cilia, rhabdites, internal vesicles, and the intricate stem cell network that drives its remarkable regeneration.
Explore Datasets Produced
by katana microtome
More SBF-SEM data on WEBKNOSSOSRat Retina
Imaged on JEOL IT700. Sample courtesy of Dr Isabelle Bonne, National University of Singapore.
Mouse Brain
Imaged on Zeiss Sigma VP. Sample courtesy of Dr Christel Genoud, University of Lausanne.
Flatworm
Imaged on a TESCAN Clara. Sample courtesy of Dr Peter Ladurner, University of Innsbruck.
Squid Skin
Imaged on a Zeiss Sigma VP. Sample courtesy of Alan Kuzirian, Marine Biology Laboratory.
Lamprey Spinal Cord
Imaged on a Zeiss Sigma VP. Sample courtesy of Alan Kuzirian, Marine Biology Laboratory.
Mouse Small Intestine
Imaged on a Hitachi SU7000. Sample courtesy of Dr Ilya Belevich, University of Helsinki.
Technical Specifications
Engineered to Perform
microtome
- 1 nm Z stage resolution at closed-loop
- 1.3 mm Z travel range
- 1.5 mm wide Diatome diamond blade at 45°
- Knife oscillation amplitude up to 200 nm
- Tunable knife oscillation frequency up to 100 kHz
- Minimum working distance 3 mm from sample to detector
- Dimensions: 135 × 66 × 56 (H) mm
compatibility
- Any SEM that can fit 56 mm under the pole piece
- Automation with all SEM software
- SBEMImage integration with selected Zeiss, TESCAN and Hitachi SEMs
- Integration with JEOL SEM Supporter
- Open interface with other imaging modalities to create correlative workflows
approach camera
- 40 fps 2.3 MP CMOS industrial camera with USB 3.0 connection
- Tracking mechanism to ensure knife edge always centred and focused
accessories
- SEM flange and stage adapter
- 50× aluminium sample pins
- Cabin-size travel suitcase
optional
- Spare diamond knife holders
- Touchscreen laptop
- Sample height measurement tool
- Extended warranty