Image processing and analysis are increasingly employed in order to extract the maximum amount of useful information from transmission electron micrographs. Whereas most processing is carried out a posteriori, i.e. from images that have been recorded on film then digitized for computer processing, it is obviously useful to be able to improve the on-line image in near-real time for the benefit of the microscope operator. In addition, interfacing an external computer to the internal controls of modern TEMs allows on-line image analysis to provide the first step in algorithms designed to assist the operator in adjustment of microscope parameters such as alignment, astigmatism and defocus.The hardware required for on-line image processing can be as simple as a detector coupled to a TV camera, the signal from which is digitized, stored and averaged by a set of cards controlled by a host computer, with a monitor displaying the image stored in the memory card.
On-Line Image Processing Prototype for the Detection of Mastitis in Cows