CNI – Upgrade update (Feb 10)

The GE and CNI teams have been working intensely on the installation of the new gradient and electronics systems.  The electronics cabinets – including the new gradient amplifiers, cabinets, and a massive amount of wiring – have been installed.  The new gradient coil has arrived and is ready for installation.

There was a setback a couple of days ago that briefly had us worried.  One of the protective elements of the new coil was shipped with improper labeling.  This created a dangerous situation that required us to ramp down the main field.  The situation has resolved, and the magnet is being brought back up to field strength.  The incident may have impacted the schedule by a couple of days – but it may also be possible that we lost only a very little time.

Throughout this complex process the GE and CNI teams worked together with some intensity and for very long hours.  There are very few coils in the world like the one we are installing, and GE has not carried out this particular upgrade many times.  There is always a learning curve and this is a very large and complex instrument.  We will tell you more details at the user meeting.

We remain on target for re-opening in early March.  There will be a series of messages from all of us at the CNI as the system starts up.  These will pertain to scheduling, new protocols, and image quality reports.  Please communicate these to other CNI users to make sure that the community as a whole stays up to date.

For now, we urge all PIs to to update your IRB protocols.

A picture of the new coil is shown below.  In addition, and unconnected to the install, a few days ago Adam had a serious injury while bicycling – a car door swung open into his path and the incident broke the index finger on his right hand.  He had to undergo surgery.  What a life – but he is soldiering on and barely missed a beat.

The CNI Team