New User

Getting Started at SER-CAT

SER-CAT operate two state-of-the-art crystallography beamlines at Sector 22 of the Advanced Photon Source (APS), Argonne National Laboratory. This guide will help you get started with using our facilities.

The Complete Setup Process

Step 1: Start Your APS User Registration

Timeline: Start 2-4 weeks before you need beamtime (International users: allow extra time)

What you'll do:

  1. Visit the APS User Registration page​
  2. Complete the registration form
  3. Receive your APS badge number (you'll need this for everything else!)

Important: Check if your institution has a User Agreement with APS. Most do, but if yours doesn't, this process takes additional time.​

Step 2: Complete Required Training

Your training requirements depend on whether you'll collect data remotely or on-site.

Remote User Access

On-Site User

Step 3: Submit Your ESAF (Experimental Safety Approval Form)

What is an ESAF? This form describes your experiment and any potential safety concerns. You cannot begin work without an approved ESAF.​

SER-CAT uses Run-Wide ESAFs covering the entire run period, which means:

  • Submit your ESAF at least two weeks before the start of each run​
  • All training must be completed before ESAF approval
  • SER-CAT staff review your ESAF first, then APS Safety approves it

  • Click below button for Instructions to help you fill out your ESAF

    ESAF Instructions

Step 4: Schedule Your Beamtime

Once your proposal is approved and you're registered:

  1. We contact you: SER-CAT staff will reach out to schedule your session
  2. Submit a Beam Time Request (BTR): Our staff will help coordinate this
  3. Finalize logistics: Confirm dates, shipping schedules, or remote access details

STEP 5: Collect Your Data

During your scheduled beamtime:

  • Mount your samples on the beamline (or SER-CAT staff will for remote users)
  • Collect X-ray diffraction data
  • SER-CAT staff provide real-time support
  • Download your data

Available support:

  • Data collection strategy guidance
  • Troubleshooting assistance
  • Software help (SERGUI interface)
  • Real-time data quality assessment
  • Click below button for more information

Downloading Data

After Your Experiment: Required Actions

STEP 6: Complete Your End of Experiment Form (EEF)

What is the EEF? The End of Experiment Form is a mandatory report that documents your completed experiment.​

When to submit: Within 30 days after your beamtime ends

How to submit:

  1. Log in to the EEF System using your APS credentials (badge number and password)​
  2. Provide experiment details and outcomes
  3. Report any safety incidents or equipment issues
  4. Acknowledge completion of your work

EEF completion is tracked and may affect future beamtime allocations. It helps APS and SER-CAT improve user experience and facility operations.​

Facility Status: Stay Informed

Check Current Operations

Real-Time Beam Status
Monitor live beam conditions at the APS Ring Status ​

Plan Around Facility Schedule

APS Long-Range Operations Schedule
View planned shutdowns, maintenance periods, and user runs at the APS Long-Range Schedule

Key information:

  • User Runs: Periods when beamlines are available for experiments
  • Shutdown Periods: Scheduled maintenance when no beam is available
  • Dark Time: Non-beam periods for equipment work
  • Special Operations: Testing or commissioning activities

Important: Always coordinate your beamtime requests with the APS schedule. SER-CAT cannot provide beam during facility shutdowns.

Quick Reference Checklist

Task For Remote Users For On-Site Users When to Complete
APS Registration ✅ Required ✅ Required 2-4 weeks before
Online Training 1 course 4 courses Before ESAF submission
ESAF Submission ✅ Required ✅ Required 2 weeks before run starts
Sector Orientation ❌ Not needed ✅ Required Upon arrival
Software Setup ✅ Required Optional Before session
End of Experiment Form (EEF) ✅ Required ✅ Required Within 30 days after

Need Help?

Questions? Contact SER-CAT staff at any point in the process. We're here to help!

Helpful Resources