Operating outdated EPMA (JXA-8600SX) by popular microcomputers and Windows PC

Here we report on the operation of JEOL JXA-8600SX wavelength-dispersive electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA) after replacing outdated and damaged native computers with popular up-to-date microcomputers (Arduino) a desktop Windows PC. Stepper motors actuating sample stage spectrometers are driven by computerized numerical control (CNC) kits commercialized for hand-made 3D printers, open-source firmware GRBL installed Arduino, common text-based command “G-code” sent from X-ray pulse signals single-channel pulse-height analyzer (SCA) analog ammeter also acquired Arduino. Sending commands PC to Arduino receiving routinized homemade program coded Visual Basic.NET. Quantitative analyses anhydrous silicates oxides, applying Bence-Albee correction, provide reasonable oxide concentrations that generally within 99-101 wt.% in total compatible stoichiometry 1%-2% relative deviation. This alternative system not only extends use EPMA hardware regardless generational changes computer technology, but introduces optional analytical techniques available built-in system.