Hello all,

Although I am new to this group, I was hoping for some feedback
concerning cryostats.  I have narrowed down our list to 2 cryostats,
the Leica 1850 and the Microm HM 505 EVP.  Both satisfy our research
needs and both are currently here in our lab for a side by side demo
(they are also similar in price).  We have found that both have
features which are pluses and both are similar ergonomically.  I have
read through the HistoNet archives and have not found any information
on the HM 505, only the HM 500 (mainly that it is great so long as you
are not one of the unfortunate people to have mechanical problems). 
The Leica info has been pretty straight forward (not fancy but
reliable).   Without any other info than that acquired from the demos,
I would edge towards the Microm since it is slightly more comfortable
to use, has better lighting, has the vacuum which can be shut off, and
can section really thick sections (over 50 um) which may be of use to
our lab although not a priority (thick sections can always be sent out
for cutting).  On the other hand, I have had good experience with Leica
equipment in general and the Leica cryostat has a wider anti-roll plate
which does not hit the blade and a sliding blade holder which together
allow use of the whole blade length.  I was hoping someone out there
may have some hands on experience with these models which is of longer
duration than a short demo period.  I am especially interested in
hearing about the HM 505's reliability or lack there of.

As an aside, my prior experience has mostly been with paraffin (Leica
microtomes) and my more limited cryosectioning experience has been with
a Jung (old Leica) which worked great.

Thanks in advance,

Laura


Laura C. Claesson
Pharmacyclics
995 E. Arques Avenue
Sunnyvale, CA   94085-4521
Phone  408 215 3447
Fax   408 328 3689
lclaesson@pcyc.com



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