We believe that empowering the client with information enables good decisions. Our process is focused on providing information so that you can make that decision.
To that end we would like you to know what the process looks like, and what you can expect.
Initial Dialogue by eMail:
Our ‘Inquiry Form’ is designed to provide us with the initial information. We will likely have more questions regarding your equipment before we can generate even a ‘guestimate’ as accurately estimating all the needed work without having the equipment to hand is very difficult. We will endeavour to provide that ‘guestimate’ and know that with the years of experience we have working with a wide variety of makes and models, the range of the ‘guestimate’ is usually accurate.
Repairs:
The largest variable for any estimation is if there is ‘repair’ work needed. Any ‘guestimate’ or estimate we provide does not cover any repair work as parts for older models are often difficult to source and expensive to acquire. We do have a growing inventory of parts but due to the vast array of makes and models it is impossible for us to have all parts for all makes and models.
Pickup and Delivery:
Once you decide to go past the dialogue stage we need to agree on delivery and pickup. If your microscope is located within Calgary area, we will pick it up from your location. If shipping is required, you will be responsible for that.
Notes on shipping:
- Stand the microscope on its base, do not lay it on its back or sides.
- Insure that the mechanical stage does not stick out to either side – centre the mechanical stage.
- Use a box that has at least two inches of space (for packing material) on all four sides plus the top.
- Reinforce each of the sides with an additional layer of cardboard, if using a cardboard box.
- Pack the remaining space with bubble wrap.
- Label the box ‘Fragile’ on all sides and indicate which end is ‘up’.
- Consider insuring the shipment.
Hands on Assessment:
We will perform an inspection and assessment of the function of your equipment and the level of contamination the optical surfaces present. From this we will generate an estimate and send this by eMail. We will not commence any work without your written approval (by eMail).
There is a fee for this work. For educational student level models it is $15.00 each, and for laboratory and diagnostic level models the range is $45.00 to $90.00. Please note that if the work is approved, this fee is waived.
The ‘Work’:
When approved, we will perform the work using the best materials available and applying decades of hands on expertise. A post-work functional assessment will be preformed to insure that your microscope will be returned to you in good working order.
The Invoice:
We will provide you with a .pdf by email outlining the billing. We accept payments by:
- eTransfer – to an eMail address provided on the invoice
- Credit Card – we can provide a secure credit card invoice by eMail