How mouse input is used:
The mouse can be used to select functions by clicking the left mouse button
when the cursor is positioned above the function "buttons". The
right mouse button usually acts as the ESC key, allowing the user to return
from a given operation to the main menu and eventually back to Windows. When
data is being collected from the SEM, it is best not to move the mouse
excessively. The mouse cursor is hidden during collection, however the right
mouse button is active, and can be used to stop program operation and return
control to the SEM. On some screens the cursor is not visible until the mouse
is clicked, then an item may be selected and the cursor will disappear again.
Data Windows:
When DIGISEM prompts the user for data, a "data window" appears on
the CRT. These windows vary in size and color depending on the type and amount
of data required. Typically, the data window has a title at the top of the
window indicating what type of data is to be entered. Examples of data windows
can be found throughout this documentation. The data windows
described below are only active and visible at certain times during program
operation, that is, when the program needs your input.
Note that some data window fields are numeric or text only, and will not
accept incorrect data. Also, certain fields require some data be present to
proceed (even a zero may be entered). These fields are the accelerating
voltage, working distance, sample number, frame number, etc. Once
a value has been entered, it becomes the default value for subsequent sessions,
so if you always operate at a constant accelerating voltage, there is no need to
change it.
Hidden Key Commands:
Mouse support is incorporated for nearly all functions, however; a few
functions are accessible only through the keyboard. Generally, these
"hidden" keys are utilized to avoid displaying superfluous
information on screen when video printing may be performed. When a full scan
is collected, there are no menu selections displayed. The F1 key is pressed to
save the image, and for systems with a video print option, the "P"
key will activate video printing. The ESC key is used to terminate the
operation or to exit from the current level. Hidden commands are incorporated
from time to time to test features which are in development. The 'V' key
is one such key. It invokes a full screen refresh mode. This was
developed for a customer who wished to videotape the sample as it underwent expansion
on a thermal stage. It may be formally incorporated under the menu system
at a future release. Another very important hidden key is the CalMu
function used to calibrate the micron bars. In this case, the function is
intentionally hidden to keep casual users of your SEM from un-calibrating the
micron bars. We do our best to minimize the use of "hidden"
keys.
Status Messages.
During certain operations, messages will pop-up on-screen to keep the
user aware of various program parameters. If the status message appears at the
center of the screen, it will be titled "Message". These message
windows are typically the result of a warning to the user. For instance, if an
image storage directory is specified which doesn't exist, a message appears
which prompts the user to enter a "y" if a directory
should be created.
Additional informative status messages appear at the bottom of the CRT,
usually at the left. These messages require no action and simply
inform the user about such items as the current dwell time, ABC status, etc.
Ready to proceed to the software Function section?
