
FlexSEM II Scanning Electron Microscope
The super-compact VP-SEM with a choice of floor-standing or tabletop setup.
- Compact and flexible design
- High-resolution imaging
- Adaptable vacuum modes
- 5-axis sample stage
- Automated, user-friendly operation
SE Resolution: 4nm at 20kV
Electron source: Thermal Tungsten Emitter
Sample size: Up to 153 Ø, 40mm (H)
High-vacuum mode: Yes
Variable pressure: Yes, up to 100Pa
Why choose the FlexSEM II
The FlexSEM II VP-SEM is designed for researchers and lab managers who need the capabilities of a traditional SEM in a more compact and easier-to-operate, tabletop-like package.
With high-resolution imaging and a range of adaptable features like embedded EDS analysis, it delivers powerful imaging performance, suitable for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to electron microscopy. The instrument’s flexible configuration makes it an ideal fit for various lab environments.
Whether you’re working with biological specimens, materials research, or multipurpose imaging, the FlexSEM II enables you to perform your analysis with high-quality images quickly and easily.
Features and benefits
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Compact and flexible design
The FlexSEM II’s compact form (450 mm wide) allows it to fit comfortably in tight spaces while still delivering the performance expected from a full-sized SEM. Its modular design lets you place components wherever they’re most convenient, providing flexible installation options.
This flexibility means the system can easily be integrated into various settings, including small labs, offices, or even mobile setups. Running on a standard power outlet and only requiring an external roughing pump, it eliminates the need for specialized facilities, making high-quality imaging more accessible to a wider range of users.
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Adaptable vacuum modes
The FlexSEM II incorporates a variable pressure imaging mode as standard, as well as high-vacuum, allowing observations under 100 Pa chamber pressure. This capability simplifies the imaging of non-conductive specimens by reducing the need for extensive sample prep – charge-up elimination is just a mouse-click away.
With these flexible vacuum options, you can easily handle a variety of specimen types, including sensitive or non-conductive materials, so you get more accurate and reliable imaging results.
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High-resolution imaging
The electron optical system is driven by a user-exchangeable tungsten hairpin filament with extended lifetime due to dynamic saturation optimization. You get exceptional image quality and a SE resolution of up to 4 nm at 20kV accelerating voltage.
Besides a high-vacuum SE detector the FlexSEM II also features a sensitive 5-segment BSE detector, allowing for multiple image impressions in high and low vacuum modes.
An optional low-vacuum mode SE detector completes the detector ensemble. All this optimizes the FlexSEM for challenging imaging tasks both at higher and also surface-sensitive low accelerating voltages.
The high resolution and complete detector set enables users to capture intricate details of different samples - it’s suitable for everything from biological specimens to advanced materials research, all without compromising image clarity.
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5-axis sample stage
Multi perspective imaging is provided by the eucentric 5-axis specimen stage. And it’s supported by a light-optical specimen navigation image where the feature-of-interest is conveniently reached by a quick mouse click to the target.
The specimen chamber accommodates samples up to 153 mm in diameter and 40 mm in height. The motorized X, Y, R axes allow you to image a full circle with 64mm diameter.
Safe specimen navigation is assured by a constantly applied anti-collision model where, although manually driven, the Z and T axes are sensor-supervised. You get a visual and acoustic warning in case of a potentially unsafe operation on any stage axis.
This versatility allows for detailed exploration of different sample areas and angles, enabling researchers to quickly obtain the optimal view for analysis. Managing larger or multiple specimens simultaneously also improves workflow efficiency.
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Automated, user-friendly operation
The FlexSEM II boasts an intuitive, clearly structured, easy-to-operate graphical user interface.
Efficient operation is supported by a trackball for stage control and an operating knob panel giving manual access to the most commonly used SEM functions.
High quality imaging is easily done with reliable auto-functions like auto-focus, auto-brightness, and contrast controls that adjust settings in seconds.
Full workflow automation of repetitive tasks is available via optional functions like Python scripting or the EM-Flow Creator with its intuitive, graphics-oriented workflow setup.
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Optional accessories for expanded functionality
For users who need more advanced capabilities, the FlexSEM II can be equipped with accessories such as EDX systems from Bruker or Oxford Instruments, which provide detailed elemental analysis.
Additional software options support 3D reconstruction, particle/pore and fiber analysis, and other specialized imaging tasks.
These enhancements expand the system’s use, allowing it to meet the changing needs of different research and industrial applications, while providing a tailored solution for each user’s specific requirements.
Applications gallery

Pharmaceutical sample
4.00kV 5.6mm x7.50k SE

Argon-ion milled paper cross-section
10.00kV 5.8mm x2.70k BSE 30Pa

NMC cathode cross section
3.00kV 4.9mm x6.00k BSE

NMC active material
7.00kV 6.2mm x4.50k SE

Cement
3.00kV x15.0k SE

Wire bonding
15.0kV x500 UVD 60Pa

Related resource
In this article we explore the FlexSEM in more detail, including information on its electron optics, detection system, advanced analytics, maintenance and cost factors.
Specifications
Type |
Scanning Electron Microscope, high and low vacuum modes |
Applications |
Laboratory, Materials Research, Biological, Multipurpose |
Configuration |
Benchtop, Compact, Floor-Standing |
Electron Source |
Thermionic |
Other Characteristics |
High-Resolution |
Resolution |
4 nm SE @ 20kV |
Speak to our experts
Our team is here to help you find the right solution for your imaging needs. Whether you’re setting up a new lab, upgrading your equipment, or looking to optimize your existing microscopy workflows, we’re ready to assist. Contact us today to discuss how the FlexSEM II can enhance your lab’s capabilities.