Web-based Monitoring of Instrumentation

The purpose of this project is to allow remote monitoring of complex instrumentation using simple web-based tools. The web provides a unique environment for providing information in a global context. With a proper web browser, it is possible for an individual from almost any location in the world to view the same content as someone thousands of miles away. Modern transducers, video cameras, and appropriate software allow a researcher to inexpensively monitor (and record if necessary) information that allows the status of an experiment to be readily ascertained whether one is using a workstation adjacent to the instrument, at home in the evening, or on a business trip thousands of miles away.

The SMART6000 CCD diffractometer system is an excellent candidate for remote monitoring. The following is a snapshot of the current "status" page:

The image for the diffractometer bay is taken by an inexpensive Intel camera that is ceiling mounted in the IUMSC.

The crystal image is obtained from the high resolution CCD camera located in the diffractometer enclosure.

Currently hardware is being developed to monitor the level of the liquid nitrogen in the cooling system, as well as to interface the various temperature sensors available.

IU, Bloomington
Dept. of Chemistry
Chemistry Library