1-8 µm
Voxel resolution achievable
70 mm
Scanning size possible
4 +
Samples per run
50 m
Z Height (with add on)
WHOS IT DESIGNED FOR
Built for more demanding work
The Ultra is not an upgraded Micro it is a different system built around a different set of demands. If your work requires automated scanning, multi-sample throughput, true fluorescence imaging or structured illumination from day one, the Ultra is the correct starting point.
The Ultra is built for…
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Imaging cores and shared facilities running multiple users and projects
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Large-scale phenotyping programmes requiring multi-sample throughput
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Teams doing true multi-channel fluorescence imaging (GFP, mCherry and beyond)
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Researchers experimenting with SBF technology, scanning, illumination modes, configurations
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Labs imaging larger samples up to 70mm, or needing 50mm Z height
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Anyone who needs automated XY scanning with encoded stage as a core workflow requirement
How the Ultra differs from the Micro
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Encoded XY stage fitted as standard, not an add-on
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2 fluorescence channels as standard upgradable to 8 for true multi-channel
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Multi-sample holder included, 2 or 4 position, plus custom options
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Compatible with 60mm, 80mm and 160mm blades, including large reusable blades for extended runs
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Structured illumination available, improved contrast in dense samples
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Maximum sample size up to 70 × 70 × 35mm (50mm Z with add-on)
OVERVIEW
The flagship HREM platform for serious imaging programmes
The Optical HREM Ultra is designed for users who want the full capability of the HREM technique with automated scanning, multi-channel fluorescence, multi-sample throughput and the flexibility to experiment with different SBF imaging approaches.
The Ultra comes with an encoded automated XY stage as standard. This enables tile scanning across larger areas, automated positioning for multi-sample blocks, and the consistent, reproducible scanning workflows that imaging cores and large phenotyping programmes require. The XY stage has a position limit of 100mm in both X and Y, with all positioning software included for the lifetime of the instrument.
Each Ultra is hand-assembled and tested to order by the Indigo Scientific engineering team. The system can accommodate compound microscopes in addition to zoom optics, and add-ons including structured illumination, increased Z depth and extended multi-sample holders can be configured at order.
Encoded XY stage
Automated scanning, multi-sample positioning and XY control as standard.
Modification to achieve 50mm Z depth for larger samples. Cannot be added to existing units.
Multi-sample holder
1-position holder included. 2, 4-position and custom holders available.
Modification to achieve 50mm Z depth for larger samples. Cannot be added to existing units.
Structured illumination
Improved contrast in dense and scattering tissue samples.
Modification to achieve 50mm Z depth for larger samples. Cannot be added to existing units.
2 fluorescence channels
True fluorescence channels from the start. Upgradable to 8 with filter sliders and wheels.
Modification to achieve 50mm Z depth for larger samples. Cannot be added to existing units.
160mm blade compatible
Accepts 60mm, 80mm and 160mm reusable blades for extended runs.
Modification to achieve 50mm Z depth for larger samples. Cannot be added to existing units.
Z height increase
Modification to achieve 50mm Z depth for larger samples.
Modification to achieve 50mm Z depth for larger samples. Cannot be added to existing units.
A scanned Optical HREM Ultra image of a mouse section showing fine tissue structure achievable with XY scanning
XY SCANNING
Automated scanning as a
core capability
Tiled 2x3 combined image
Single image capture
The encoded XY stage enables both wider field coverage (imaging larger samples or multiple samples per block) and higher effective resolution (using a higher magnification optic and tiling across the same area). It also enables consistent, automated multi-sample positioning — eliminating manual repositioning between runs.
HREM Ultra sectioning a single resin sample
APPLICATIONS
What the OHREM Ultra images
The Ultra handles everything the Micro does, plus larger samples, higher throughput and more complex imaging scenarios. It is particularly well suited to work where multi-channel fluorescence, scanning or batch processing are core requirements.
Cardiovascular Research
Provides greater XY resolution per individual image stack over the Micro, with scanning capability for detailed cardiac anatomy. Multi-channel fluorescence for marker co-localisation alongside morphological HREM.
Large-Scale Phenotyping
Multi-sample holders and automated XY positioning enable high-throughput batch imaging for large mouse phenotyping screens. Image 2–4 samples per run with consistent automated acquisition, reducing per-sample overhead significantly.
Plant Sciences & Others
Whole plant structures including barley heads, citrus fruit and larger seed pods that exceed the Micro's sample range.
SBF Technology Development
The Ultra is designed for teams who want to experiment with SBF imaging approaches such as structured illumination modes, compound vs zoom optics, multi-channel configurations and novel acquisition strategies. The flexible platform is built for exploration.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
OHREM Ultra specification
Standard Ultra configuration. Many parameters can be adapted at order, contact us to discuss.
Optics & imaging
Optical platform
Max field of view 25 × 25mm
Variable zoom optic
Included as standard
Image capture
20 megapixel monochrome
Section thickness
1–8 μm (defines axial resolution)
Output formats
TIFF, TIF, BMP, PNG, JPEG, JPG
Included with purchase
Software
OHREM Acquire — no licence fee
PC & setup
Pre-configured, drivers installed
Warranty
1 year — parts + team access
Training
On-site 1–2 days at installation
Consumables
1 split mould + 20 chucks
Stage & mechanics
XY stage
Automated encoded custom XY
Encoder
Yes — exact section thickness
Sample extraction
Included — prevents debris on bloc
Compatible blades
60mm, 80mm and 160mm reusable
Multi-sample
Multiple in one block and up to 4 blocks
Available add-ons
Fluorescence channels
Up to 8 — filter wheels/slider
Structured illumination
SBF pattern illumination — retrofit availab
Compound microscope
Higher resolution optic alternatives
Z height increase
50mm — must be ordered with unit
Alternative imaging
Higher resolution / sensitivity etc.
*May be limited by hardware configuration.
† XY stage position limit of 100mm X and Y — may be limited depending on optic and sample holder configuration.
‡ Z height increase to 50mm must be specified at order and cannot be added to existing units.
OHREM Ultra — FAQ
How does the Ultra differ from the Micro?
The Ultra includes an encoded automated XY stage as standard (the Micro has a fixed platform), ships with 2 fluorescence channels as standard (the Micro supports a single LacZ-only second channel), is compatible with 160mm reusable blades, supports multi-sample holders, and has structured illumination available. It is designed for larger programmes, imaging cores and teams pushing SBF technology — not just a larger version of the Micro.
What fluorescence channels does the ultra support?
2 channels are included as standard — the HREM morphology channel plus second channel (e.g. Lac-Z). With filter sliders and wheels, this can be expanded to up to 8 controllable channels. Compatible fluorophores (e.g. MF-HREM) include GFP, mCherry, DAPI, Cy5 and others depending on configuration. This is genuine multi-channel fluorescence, not the LacZ-only second channel available on the Micro.
What samples does the Ultra support?
The standard Ultra optical platform has a maximum field of view of 25 × 25mm with a variable zoom optic. Maximum sample size in the standard configuration is 70 × 70 × 35mm. With the Z height increase add-on (which must be ordered with the unit), 50mm Z is achievable. The XY stage allows the optic to scan across larger sample areas in tiles.
What blades are compatible with the Ultra?
The Ultra is compatible with 60mm, 80mm and 160mm tungsten carbide blades. The 160mm blades are large, reusable blades designed for extended runs which is an advantage for high-throughput workflows. The Micro is limited to 60mm and 80mm single-use blades only.
Can I image multiple samples in one run?
Yes, the Ultra's encoded XY stage and multi-well sample holders allow 2 or 4 samples to be imaged in a single automated acquisition run. The system positions automatically between samples and stitches tile acquisitions as needed. Custom holders are also available for specific geometries.
Does structured illumination have to be ordered with the unit?
No, structured illumination for SBF can be retrofitted to existing Ultra systems. The Z height increase to 50mm, however, must be specified at order and cannot be added later. We recommend discussing your full requirements at the time of order to ensure all configuration options are considered.
Indigo Scientific - HREM Team
Based in Hertfordshire, UK. Systems shipped and supported worldwide.