How to Create a Z Stack in Gen5 Image+ Data Analysis Software

Using a Z-stack is a great way to visualize an object. It produces sharper images that can be combined to produce a realistic 3D impression of a structure.

There are two ways to do this. First, you can use a software program such as Gen5 Image+ Data Analysis Software. Second, you can perform the process manually. In both cases, you will need to set the following parameters.

The "Crop" function, found under the "Process Tools" section, is a fancy name for a simple program that identifies selected frames. This process is useful when you are performing a montage, as it shows all of your frames in a streamlined, compact frame.

The "Image Z-Stack" function, found under the "Images" tab, is a more advanced method that produces a stacked picture of your sample. It allows you to select the number of slices through the structure and then to choose the start and end slices.

In the "Editing" tab, you can also adjust the grain. This is important, as it determines the level of detail in your images. The z-stack can be created in monochrome, and a color can be added to represent the z-depth.

For this test, I used 41 images. Each image was scanned at 0.366 mm of focal plane. The average z-pixel profile showed a different focal signature for each class.

The "Multi-orthoslice" and "Volume" functions, both under the "Display" tab, are useful for viewing images and adjusting slices. You can do this by selecting a single image or a group of images. You can also change the display mode by clicking the "Edit" icon and choosing the desired display type.