Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy remains a cornerstone in analyzing unpaired electrons, whether in free radicals, transition metals, or defect sites. However, when selecting between X-band and Q-band EPR systems, researchers often face a classic dilemma: how to match performance needs with budget realities.

Here’s a practical breakdown to help European labs and research teams navigate this decision—and why many are choosing flexible EPR systems like CIQTEK’s to get the best of both worlds.

Performance Trade-Offs: Sensitivity vs. Resolution

X-band EPR (≈9.5 GHz) is by far the most commonly used band. It offers a great balance of sensitivity, hardware availability, and ease of sample handling. It’s particularly suited for general-purpose applications:

• Organic radicals

• Transition metal complexes

• Spin labeling in biomolecules

In contrast, Q-band EPR (≈35 GHz) provides higher spectral resolution due to increased Zeeman splitting and better orientation selectivity. However, this comes with practical considerations—cryogenic compatibility becomes more critical, and sample tuning can be more sensitive.

For labs doing high-resolution studies of biological macromolecules or probing fine structural changes in solid-state samples, Q-band can offer real advantages—if the infrastructure is ready.

Typical Price Ranges in Europe

Budget plays a decisive role. Based on recent European procurement data:

• X-band CW EPR systems typically range from €100,000 to €250,000, depending on features like variable temperature accessories or pulse capability.

• Q-band systems start around €250,000 and can exceed €500,000, especially when combined with pulsed capabilities and cryogenic sample handling.

This cost gap makes X-band the default choice for most labs—especially teaching labs, material science departments, or first-time EPR users.

CIQTEK benchtop EPR system is a strong performer here. With X-band capability, built-in temperature control, and a space-saving design, it has been installed in both US and EU university labs where compactness and quick setup are key priorities.

Use-Case Match: Materials vs. Biological Samples

X-band covers a broad range of material research, from battery cathodes to polymer radicals, while Q-band offers finer insight into g-tensor anisotropy, valuable in protein structure, spin-labeled enzymes, and advanced pharmacological studies.

Labs working with diverse sample types may benefit from EPR systems that are modular or upgradable, depending on research evolution.

CIQTEK’s CW-Pulse EPR system supports both CW and time-resolved measurements at X-band and is designed with future expansion in mind, including Q-band add-ons in pipeline development.

Financing Options & Leasing Programs

European labs increasingly look at leasing programs or research consortium sharing models to offset initial costs. CIQTEK partners with distributors in Europe to offer flexible financing, demo units, and pilot trials, which several research groups in Germany and the UK have already taken advantage of.

This approach helps research teams validate hardware before major investment, while also supporting customized workflows—from materials engineering to bioinorganic chemistry.

Making the Right Choice

When choosing between X-band and Q-band, it’s not just about frequency—it’s about your lab’s focus, resources, and future trajectory. Many labs are discovering that a powerful X-band system with strong support, user-friendly software, and cost-efficiency delivers the best long-term value.

Contact CIQTEK to discuss the right EPR configuration for your research—and request a quote or on-site demo tailored to your region.

Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) is a widely used microscopy technique in material science. It analyzes the angles and phase differences of the backscattered electrons produced when a sample interacts with a high-energy electron beam to determine key characteristics such as crystal structure and grain orientation. Compared to a traditional Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), EBSD provides higher spatial resolution and can obtain crystallographic data at the sub-micrometer level, offering unprecedented details for analyzing material microstructures.

Characteristics of the EBSD Technique

EBSD combines the microanalysis capabilities of Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and the large-area statistical analysis capabilities of X-ray diffraction. EBSD is known for its high-precision crystal structure analysis, fast data processing, simple sample preparation process, and the ability to combine crystallographic information with microstructural morphology in material science research. SEM equipped with an EBSD system not only provides micro-morphology and composition information but also enables microscopic orientation analysis, greatly facilitating the work of researchers.

Application of EBSD in SEM

In SEM, when an electron beam interacts with the sample, various effects are generated, including the diffraction of electrons on regularly arranged crystal lattice planes. These diffractions form a "Kikuchi pattern," which not only contains information about the symmetry of the crystal system but also directly corresponds to the angle between crystal planes and crystallographic axes, with a direct relationship to the crystal system type and lattice parameters. This data can be used to identify crystal phases using the EBSD technique, and for known crystal phases, the orientation of the Kikuchi pattern directly corresponds to the orientation of the crystal.

EBSD System Components

To perform EBSD analysis, a set of equipment including a Scanning Electron Microscope and an EBSD system is required. The core of the system is the SEM, which produces a high-energy electron beam and focuses it on the sample surface. The hardware part of the EBSD system usually includes a sensitive CCD camera and an image processing system. The CCD camera is used to capture the backscattered electron images, and the image processing system is used to perform pattern averaging and background subtraction to extract clear Kikuchi patterns.

Operation of the EBSD Detector

Obtaining EBSD Kikuchi patterns in SEM is relatively simple. The sample is tilted at a high angle relative to the incident electron beam to enhance the backscattered signal, which is then received by a fluorescent screen connected to a CCD camera. The EBSD can be observed directly or after amplification and storage of the images. Software programs can calibrate the patterns to obtain crystallographic information. Modern EBSD systems can achieve high-speed measurements and can be used in conjunction with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) probes to perform compositional analysis while rapidly obtaining sample orientation information.

Sample Preparation Principles

For effective EBSD analysis, sample preparation needs to follow certain principles, including the absence of residual stress, a flat surface (mechanical polishing), cleanliness, suitable shape and size, and good conductivity. The sample preparation process may involve ion etching, polishing, and other steps to ensure that the sample surface is suitable for EBSD analysis.

EBSD Calibration and Surface Scanning

Calibration is a critical step in the EBSD analysis process, ensuring an accurate correspondence between the Kikuchi patterns and crystallographic parameters. Surface scanning is another important application of EBSD technology, allowing researchers to perform extensive crystallographic analysis on the sample surface, thereby obtaining a comprehensive view of the material's microstructure.

Integrating automatic doors with building access control systems involves several key steps, from understanding the components to programming and testing the system. Here's a detailed guide:

1. Understand the Components

Automatic Door Operator: This is the device that controls the opening and closing of the door. It typically consists of a motor, controller, and sensors.

Access Control System: This system manages and monitors access to the building. It includes components such as card readers, keypads, biometric scanners, access control panels, and software.

2. Choose the Right Integration Method

Wired Integration: This involves connecting the automatic door operator directly to the access control system using cables. It provides a reliable and stable connection but may require more installation effort and is less flexible if you need to make changes in the future.

Wireless Integration: Utilizes wireless technologies like Bluetooth, Wi - Fi, or Z - Wave to connect the door operator to the access control system. It offers more flexibility in installation and is easier to modify or expand, but may be subject to signal interference.

3. Install and Configure the Hardware

Install the Access Control Devices: Mount the card readers, keypads, or biometric scanners at the entrances where the automatic doors are located. Connect them to the access control panel according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Connect to the Door Operator: If using a wired integration, connect the appropriate wires from the access control panel to the door operator's control inputs. For wireless integration, pair the door operator with the access control system following the wireless setup procedures.

4. Program the Access Control System

Define Access Levels: Determine who has access to the building and which doors they can access. For example, employees may have access to certain areas during working hours, while visitors may have limited access.

Set Up User Credentials: Enroll the user's information, such as card numbers, PINs, or biometric data, into the access control system. Each user should be assigned the appropriate access level.

5. Configure the Automatic Door Settings

Adjust Opening and Closing Speeds: Set the speed at which the door opens and closes to ensure smooth and safe operation. This may need to be adjusted based on the traffic flow and the type of users (e.g., slower for elderly or disabled individuals).

Set Time Delays: Determine the amount of time the door stays open after being triggered. This should be long enough for people to pass through comfortably but not so long that it affects security or energy efficiency.

6. Test and Troubleshoot

Test Access: Use the various access credentials (cards, PINs, biometrics) to test if the automatic doors open and close as expected. Check for any delays, errors, or failures in the operation.

Check Sensor Functionality: Ensure that the door sensors, such as motion sensors or infrared sensors, are working correctly. They should detect the presence of people or objects accurately to trigger the door opening.

Verify Security Features: Test the security features of the system, such as anti - tailgating mechanisms and door locking functions when access is denied.

7. Regular Maintenance and Updates

Maintain the System: Regularly check the hardware for any signs of wear or damage. Clean the card readers, sensors, and door tracks to ensure proper functioning.

Update Software and Firmware: Keep the access control system's software and the door operator's firmware up to date. Manufacturers often release updates to improve performance, fix bugs, and enhance security.

Professional installation and integration services are recommended to ensure the proper functioning and security of the system. Additionally, local building codes and regulations should be followed during the installation process.

Author: Written by Ms.Anna Zhang from S4A INDUSTRIAL CO., LIMITED

Here are the methods for maintaining and troubleshooting an automatic sliding door opener:

Maintenance

Regular Cleaning

Clean the exterior of the door opener with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Pay attention to the track and sensor areas, as any debris accumulated there can affect the door's operation.

Vacuum the track regularly to remove small particles and debris that could cause friction or jamming.

Lubrication

Lubricate the moving parts of the door opener, such as the rollers, hinges, and tracks, with a suitable lubricant. This helps to reduce friction and ensures smooth operation. Use a silicone - based lubricant for better results, and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Check and Tighten Fasteners

Periodically check all the screws, bolts, and nuts on the door opener and its associated components. Over time, vibrations can cause these fasteners to become loose. Tighten any loose fasteners to prevent components from becoming misaligned or falling off.

Battery or Power Supply Check

If the door opener is battery - powered, check the battery level regularly and replace the batteries when necessary. For AC - powered openers, ensure that the power cord is in good condition and that the outlet is working properly.

Sensor Calibration

The sensors on the automatic sliding door opener need to be calibrated regularly to ensure accurate detection. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the specific calibration process. Usually, this involves adjusting the sensitivity and range of the sensors.

Troubleshooting

Door Not Opening or Closing

Check if the power supply is working. Ensure that the door opener is plugged in and that there is no power outage. If it's battery - powered, replace the batteries if they are low.

Inspect the sensors to see if they are blocked or dirty. Clean the sensors and make sure there are no objects or obstructions in their detection range.

Check the track for any debris or damage. Remove any obstacles and repair or replace the track if it is damaged.

Test the control panel to see if the buttons are working properly. If the buttons are unresponsive, the control panel may need to be repaired or replaced.

Door Opens or Closes Slowly

Lubricate the moving parts as described in the maintenance section. Friction in the rollers, hinges, or tracks can cause the door to move slowly.

Check the power supply. If the voltage is low, it can affect the motor's performance. Contact an electrician to check the power supply if needed.

Inspect the motor. If the motor is overheating or making unusual noises, it may be malfunctioning and require repair or replacement.

Door Closes Partially or Stops Mid - Way

Check the sensors for proper alignment and functionality. A misaligned or faulty sensor can cause the door to stop prematurely.

Look for any obstructions in the door's path. Even a small object can trigger the safety sensors and cause the door to stop.

Examine the track for any irregularities or damage that could be causing the door to get stuck.

Door Makes Unusual Noises

Tighten any loose components. Loose screws, bolts, or parts can vibrate and make noise when the door moves.

Lubricate the moving parts. Dry or worn - out parts can produce squeaking or grinding noises.

Check the motor and gearbox. Unusual noises may indicate problems with these components, such as a worn - out gear or a faulty motor bearing.

If the above troubleshooting methods do not solve the problem, it is recommended to contact a professional technician at sales@s4a-access.com or the S4A 's customer service for further assistance.

Author: Written by Ms.Anna Zhang from S4A INDUSTRIAL CO., LIMITED

There are several reasons why your automatic sliding door may not be closing completely:

Obstructions:

Physical Obstacles: Check if there are any objects blocking the door's path. Even small items like leaves, debris, or a misplaced doormat can prevent the door from closing fully. Inspect the entire length of the track and the area around the door frame.

https://www.s4a-access.com/automatic-door-opener_c90

Sensor Blockage: The sensors that detect the door's movement and its surroundings could be blocked or covered. Dirt, dust, or even a sticker accidentally placed on the sensor can interfere with its operation. Wipe the sensors clean and make sure there are no objects within their detection range that could be causing a false signal.

Track Issues:

Damage or Misalignment: Examine the track for any signs of damage, such as dents, bends, or rust. A damaged track can cause the door to get stuck or not move smoothly. Additionally, check if the track is properly aligned. Over time, the track may shift due to vibrations or other factors, affecting the door's movement.

Lack of Lubrication: The rollers on the door that move along the track may become dry or dirty, causing increased friction. This can make it difficult for the door to close completely. Lubricate the rollers and the track with a suitable lubricant, such as silicone - based spray, to reduce friction.

Motor or Mechanical Problems:

Motor Malfunction: The motor that powers the door's movement may be experiencing issues. It could be overheating, have a faulty winding, or be experiencing a power supply problem. If the motor is making unusual noises or seems to be working intermittently, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

Belt or Chain Issues: In some automatic sliding door systems, a belt or chain is used to drive the door. If this belt or chain becomes loose, worn, or damaged, it can affect the door's closing mechanism. Check the tension and condition of the belt or chain and adjust or replace it as necessary.

Sensor Calibration or Settings:

Incorrect Calibration: The sensors may be misaligned or miscalibrated. This can cause the door to stop closing prematurely, as the sensors may think there is an obstruction when there isn't. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions to recalibrate the sensors.

Faulty Sensor: A defective sensor can also lead to improper door operation. If the sensor is not functioning properly, it may send incorrect signals to the door controller. Test the sensor's functionality using a multimeter or other appropriate testing tools, and replace the sensor if it is found to be faulty.

Control System Issues:

Programming Errors: The control system that governs the door's operation may have incorrect programming. This could be due to a software glitch or incorrect settings. Try resetting the control system to its default settings and reprogramming it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Electrical Problems: Check for any loose wires, corroded connections, or other electrical issues in the control system. A faulty connection can disrupt the flow of electricity and affect the door's operation. Tighten any loose connections and replace any damaged wires.

If you have tried all these troubleshooting steps and the problem persists, it is recommended to contact a S4A's professional technician at sales@s4a-access.com or the S4A's customer service for further assistance. They have the expertise and specialized tools to diagnose and fix more complex issues with automatic sliding doors.

Author: Written by Ms.Anna Zhang from S4A INDUSTRIAL CO., LIMITED

The 7th International Conference of the Asian Union of Magnetic Societies (IcAUMS) will be held at the Okinawa Convention Center in Japan from April 21st to 25th. CIQTEK, with its independently developed Scanning NV Probe Microscope (SNVM), will showcase innovative achievements in the field of extremely weak magnetic fields. We sincerely invite experts and teachers attending the conference to visit CIQTEK's booth, experience the charm of cutting-edge technology, explore cooperation opportunities, and jointly promote advances in magnetism and related disciplines.

The Asian Union of Magnetic Societies International Conference is held once every two years. Since its establishment in 2008 by magnetic societies from China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, it has become an important platform for exchanges in the field of magnetism and magnetic materials in the Asia-Pacific region.

The conference aims to promote in-depth cooperation in this field and enhance the influence of the Asia-Pacific region in the global field of magnetism and magnetic materials. At that time, experts, scholars, and representatives from companies from all over the world will gather together to discuss cutting-edge scientific research in magnetism, the latest research achievements, and future development trends.

CIQTEK's SNVM, developed for scanning NV probe microscopy, utilizes nitrogen-vacancy (NV) color centers in diamond as the core sensing element. Through quantum coherent manipulation, it achieves ultra-high detection sensitivity at the single-nuclear-spin level. Compared to traditional magnetic imaging devices, it breaks through the sensitivity and resolution limitations of traditional techniques in the detection of weak electric/magnetic fields. The single-atom-sized sensor greatly enhances spatial resolution and enables high-precision electromagnetic imaging and spectroscopic analysis at the nanoscale, providing a powerful microscopic detection tool for multidisciplinary research.

CIQTEK focuses on core technologies in precision measurement and is deeply involved in the development of high-end scientific instruments. Its main business covers providing key devices and equipment for multiple industries. In 2023, CIQTEK developed the low-temperature version of SNVM for the first time globally. It can measure the electromagnetic properties of materials in the temperature range of 2 to 300 K and, when paired with a three-axis vector magnet, greatly expands the application scenarios of SNVM.

Currently, more than ten units of this product have been successfully delivered, with users including Peking University, Tsinghua University, the Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and City University of Hong Kong, among other top research institutions.

The ET650 ECG Watch offers convenience and comprehensive health tracking. For those constantly on the move, the Bluetooth call feature is a game - changer. Whether you're cycling to work or in the middle of a workout, you can answer important calls directly from your wrist without fumbling for your phone.

When it comes to health, the ET650 shines brightly. Its electrocardiogram detection allows you to quickly assess your heart health anytime, anywhere.  Women will appreciate the menstrual tracking function, helping them plan their month with ease. The 24 - hour sleep monitoring provides in - depth insights into your sleep quality, while features like fatigue detection and sedentary reminders encourage a healthier lifestyle. In case of an emergency, the SOS function ensures immediate help is just a click away.   

Beyond health, the watch is packed with useful daily features. The step counting, calorie tracking, and various sports modes are perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Need to time a cooking recipe? The stopwatch and countdown timer have got you covered. The social sharing function makes it effortless to share your achievements on platforms like WeChat, Facebook, and Twitter. And when you want to unwind, you can even play some games right on your watch.   

The ET650 ECG Watch truly has something for everyone, making it an essential companion for modern life.

It is with great pleasure that we, CIQTEK, announce an attendance at a workshop dedicated to Aqueous Organic Redox Flow Batteries, to be held in the Campus des Cordeliers at Sorbonne University (Paris, France) on April 24-25, 2025. We will also bring the Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) Spectrometer-related materials to have friendly exchanges with scientists and researchers from all walks of life.

The workshop aims to bring together the whole community working on Aqueous Organic Redox Flow Batteries, at various research and development stages from fundamental research to prototypes.

The first edition will focus on best practices for determining performance metrics, including capacity, energy, and power, during the early development stages of new chemistries. It will also address methodologies to assess the stability of organic redox active materials, considering degradation mechanisms and projected lifetimes.

The workshop will also cover methodologies and techniques for accurately determining SOC and SOH, recommended procedures for conducting accelerated aging tests, predictive tools for assessing the long-term stability and performance of the RFB, and challenges to be addressed when scaling up AORFB technologies from laboratory-scale experiments to larger industrial applications. Looking forward to seeing you in Paris!

Meet us at the Workshop

Date: April 24 - 25, 2025

Location: Sorbonne University, Paris, France

CIQTEK participated in the prestigious Experimental NMR Conference (ENC) 2025 ENC-ISMAR Joint Conference, held from April 6 to 10 in Pacific Grove, California. The conference served as an excellent platform for CIQTEK to showcase its cutting-edge research and advancements in single-molecule magnetic resonance and its wide-ranging applications.

During the event, CIQTEK's renowned experts, including the Vice President, Chief Engineer, and Overseas Division Head, presented a keynote lecture on the groundbreaking topic of "single-molecule magnetic resonance and applications." The presentation highlighted the company's pioneering work in leveraging NMR techniques to analyze and study individual molecules, revolutionizing the understanding and utilization of molecular structures in various scientific fields.

"We are honored to have had the opportunity to share our latest research and innovations in single molecule magnetic resonance at the ENC 2025 ENC-ISMAR Joint Conference," said Eric, Vice President of CIQTEK. "By unraveling the mysteries of individual molecules, we aim to unlock new insights and applications that will shape the future of scientific exploration. We look forward to continuing our contributions to the field and collaborating with esteemed professionals in driving advancements in NMR and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance technology."