Option Video
Integrated live optical feedback for accurate probe positioning, supporting reliable setup and operation in SECM and SDC measurements.
Visual Support for More Confident SECM and SDC Operations
The Sensolytics Option Video provides real-time optical feedback during SECM and SDC experiments, allowing direct observation of the probe–sample region during the setup and while SDC operation. It consists of a monochrome USB CCD camera combined with a macro-objective and mounted on a freely standing tripod, delivering a live image of the measurement area.
This visual inspection supports accurate sample alignment and positioning of the probe, which is particularly relevant for microstructured, heterogeneous, or irregular surfaces. Users can identify regions of interest, monitor the approach area, and confirm the positioning before the measurements.
The video signal is integrated into the Sensolytics control software, enabling synchronized control without the need for external imaging systems. This reduces positioning uncertainty and supports more consistent measurements, especially when the target area cannot be reliably defined by coordinates alone.
Key Features
- • Integrated live optical examination: Real-time visualization of the probe–sample region within the Sensolytics control software.
- Improved positioning accuracy: Supports precise alignment of the probe relative to the surface features and regions of interest.
- Adjustable magnification: Manual zoom control (0.7×–4.5×) for flexible framing of the measurement area.
Technical Specifications
Sensolytics Base SECM
The complete scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) system providing high-resolution XYZ positioning, and intuitive software control for spatially resolved electrochemical measurements.
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Option SPECM
By integrating an optical fiber with a concentric gold ring electrode, the scanning photoelectrochemical microscopy (SPECM) module enables spatially resolved measurements in light-responsive materials by combining local illumination with electrochemical analysis.
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Scanning Droplet Cell (SDC)
The Scanning Droplet Cell (SDC) enables localized electrochemical measurements on large or complex substrates without full sample immersion by forming a confined miniaturized measuring cell in contact with the sample surface. The system is compatible with all SECM configurations but profits from an extended travel range.
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SDC Heads
The SDC head is the active element of the SDC system, serving as a mobile electrochemical microcell for localized electrochemical measurements. Sensolytics offers a range of interchangeable SDC bodies and tip geometries optimized for different applications.
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Standard Sample Holder
The standard SDC sample holder is designed for flat substrates. It incorporates two flexible arms with electrical contacts for sample polarization and features an integrated waste jar for convenient electrolyte collection.
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XL Sample Holder
Designed for larger substrates, the XL SDC sample holder (175 x 175 x 25 mm) is manufactured from PEEK to ensure robust performance and chemical compatibility in aggressive environments. Like the standard sample holder, it incorporates two flexible arms with electrical contacts and an integrated waste jar.
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Auxiliary Electrodes
Explore a complete portfolio of miniaturized reference and counter electrodes for reliable electrochemical measurements. From aqueous and gel-based Ag/AgCl references to mini hydrogen electrodes, Pt nets, and compact Pt coil counter electrodes.
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Polarization Cells
These electrochemical cells enable controlled sample polarization from the top or bottom and support the operation with macroelectrodes serving as substrates.
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Specialized Cells
Our range of specialized SECM cells is tailored for application-specific experiments, including complete measuring cells optimized for screen-printed electrodes, temperature-controlled studies, and flow or gas-controlled experiments.
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Picoplot Dispender
Piezoelectric dispensing system for precise deposition of picoliter droplets, enabling preparation of material libraries, combinatorial samples, and controlled placement of functional solutions.
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Polishing Machine
Polishing system for preparation and maintenance of micro- and nanoelectrodes, ensuring reproducible surface conditions, stable electrochemical response, and extended probe lifetime.
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Faraday Cages
Built from robust varnished steel and optimized for Sensolytics SECM and SDC systems, our Faraday Cages are designed to ensure low-noise measurement conditions for high-sensitivity electrochemical experiments, maintaining convenient access for cables and instrumentation.
Explore →Not sure which SECM configuration fits your experiment?
Contact us to discuss your application, experimental conditions, and configuration requirements. We support system selection and customization based on your individual requirements and future upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The live image allows users to visually align the probe relative to the surface features and the regions of interest.
This is particularly useful for heterogeneous, structured, or irregular samples where coordinate-based positioning alone is not sufficient.
No. The Option Video is intended for macroscopic visualization during prepositioning, not for high-resolution imaging.
It provides visual context for the probe alignment and navigation during SECM or SDC experiments. For applications requiring higher resolution or detailed surface characterization, the Sensolytics Optical Microscope Upgrade is more suitable.
Yes. The camera feed is integrated directly into the SECM Sensolytics Software and the SDC Sensolytics Software, allowing users to monitor the experimental area without external imaging tools.
Yes. The live image can be used to monitor the approach region and verify the probe position relative to the sample before and during the measurements. However, when immersed in a measuring solution, the diagonal perspective view is limited due to distortion, blurring, and light refraction at the interface. Therefore, a control of the final probe–sample distance must be defined by the selected electrochemical or positioning method.
