Complete automation of molecular replacement

Diamond [1] is the new third generation synchrotron source which is currently being built in the United Kingdom south of Oxford. In Phase 1 seven beamlines are funded which includes three beamlines for macromolecular crystallography (MX). Radiation from three in-vacuum undulators will be used for these beamlines. The undulators will be canted to allow for a second one to be placed in the straight to provide radiation for a side station. All three MX beamlines will be tunable over a wavelength range of 0.5-2.5 A to allow for multiple anomalous dispersion experiments. Significant emphasis is being placed on the automation of each beamline, both in terms of hardware and software. The implemented diagnostics tools will also allow for a remote monitoring and control of the beam. The experimental stations will be equipped with large area detectors, with robotic sample changers to enable automatic mounting of cryocooled and room temperature samples as well as a high quality crystal viewing system. Next to the beamlines the users will find support laboratories to prepare for their experiments. The MX beamlines are scheduled for commissioning in 2006 and will come on-line for users in 2007.