What is the difference between the OHREM Micro and Ultra systems?

HREM Micro is ideal for standard high-resolution episcopic applications offering a compact design and straightforward setup. The HREM Ultra delivers optimisation for higher resolution, improved throughput and extended capabilities.

What types of samples are supported by the HREM Micro and Ultra systems?

Both systems support imaging of fixed, resin-embedded biological samples such as embryos, organs, plant tissue and tissue blocks. They are compatible with analysing morphology or also multi-fluorescence with the Ultra system.

Are blades included with HREM systems?

Our systems include starter blades, we offer replacement blades designed specifically for HREM resin systems. Ultra systems are compatible with 60mm, 80mm and 160mm blades while Micro systems are compatible with 60mm and 80mm blades only.

Do you ship globally?

We ship HREM equipment to the UK, Europe, USA, Canada and to the rest of the world.

Do you provide support globally?

Support is offered, as well as install, to your location assuming safe travel of our friendly team here in the UK.

How long does production take?

HREM systems take between 8-12 weeks to be hand manufactured by our team but can take longer based on configuration. Delivery can take 3-4 weeks depending on if in the UK or overseas.

Is the imaging software included with the instrument?

Both the Micro and Ultra include specialised imaging software for automated capture and integration.

Are HREM systems customisable?

HREM systems can be adapted if you have a specific requirement, for example, higher resolution cameras or models. Split moulds can also be adapted to your requirements.

High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM) / Products

Optical HREM Systems

Optical HREM Platforms for Reproducible 3D Block-Face Imaging

Two dedicated OHREM platforms, built in- house by Indigo Scientific for serial block-face imaging at micron-scale resolution. Choose the system that matches your throughput, sample size, resolution and application.

Optical HREM Ultra

HREM Ultra system, for advanced block face imaging with resolution and experimentation in mind.

Optical HREM Micro

HREM Micro system, for single shot, HREM imaging for up to 20 megapixels.

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HREM Imaging

Complete 3D imaging - built around your workflow

Each OHREM system is hand-assembled and configured for real research workflows, from individual labs to imaging core facilities.

Built In-House

Each system is hand-assembled and tested to order, ensuring high precision, reliability, and understanding of required performance.

Integrated Software Control

Our in-house software provides seamless control of imaging, sectioning, and data handling, reducing workflow complexity. With user suggestions welcomed (and implemented).

Application-Focused Design

Systems are configured for real samples and real workflows, delivering reliable results across a wide range of specimen types.

Direct Expert Support

Support comes directly from the engineers who design and build the systems, ensuring fast and effective assistance.

Effortless 3D Reconstruction

Optimised acquisition produces inherently aligned datasets, enabling fast, high-quality 3D visualisation with minimal post-processing.

Custom to Your Requirements

Each system can be adapted to sample size, resolution and workflow ensuring the right fit for your application.

Two platforms - one technique

Choose based on throughput, specimen size and required configuration.

Feature	OHREM Micro	OHREM Ultra
Intended use	Routine imaging	High-throughput & core facilities
Intended sample size & quantity	Single sample per run (typically 1–15 mm)	Multiple or larger samples (1–25 mm typical)
XY & Scanning	Optional XY stage for sample positioning and scanning	Advanced scanning configurations for multi-sample and high-resolution acquisition
Throughput	Standard acquisition runs	Extended runs and multiple samples
Fluorescence	Optional second channel (e.g. Lac-Z)	Dual-channel standard, expandable up to four channels with optical sectioning options

Optical HREM Micro

The Optical HREM micro is a bench top system designed for routine HREM imaging, which is suitable for embryos and smaller organs and medium-scale biological specimens. The system supports straightforward acquisition workflows while maintaining consistent section-to-section alignment.

Simple acquisition workflow, ideal for smaller laboratories

Optimised for specimens between 1-15mm
Upgrades such as extra fluorescence channels and XY scanning available

Optical HREM Ultra

The Optical HREM Ultra is Indigo Scientific’s high-performance HREM platform, developed for high-throughput environments and extended imaging projects. It is designed for larger specimens, multi-sample runs and advanced experimental configurations

Advanced scanning configurations for extended fields of view or increased resolution
Multi-sample acquisition capability for large-scale phenotyping
Modular optical configurations with expandable fluorescence channels
Electronic focus control for consistent adjustment between samples
Designed for imaging cores and long-duration acquisition workflows

Optical HREM Ultra Imaging System, Imaging a Sample

HREM Consumables & Accessories

A range of dedicated HREM consumables and accessories are available to support routine and high-throughput workflows:

Precision blades

PTFE moulds for sample production
Sample holders for multiple samples and custom configurations
Replacement components and custom setups

OHREM Specifications

Specifications may vary depending on system configuration and application requirements. Typical baseline parameters include:

Section thickness range: 1–8 µm (defines axial resolution)
20-megapixel image capture across variable fields of view (approximately 25 mm to 1 mm X/Y)
Micro maximum sample size: up to 25 mm × 25 mm × 25 mm
Ultra maximum sample size: up to 70 mm × 70 mm × 35 mm (expandable with additional hardware)
File output formats: TIFF, TIF, BMP, PNG, JPEG