Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+ Motorized Electronic Microtome – Used and Refurbished
The Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+ is a motorized electronic rotary microtome designed for precise, efficient sectioning of paraffin-embedded tissue and specialized resin specimens in histology, pathology, biomedical research, pharmaceutical, and anatomical pathology laboratories. Combining motorized cutting with electronic specimen advance, programmable sectioning functions, adjustable cutting speeds, and an ergonomic operator interface, the Finesse ME+ is particularly well suited to laboratories processing substantial numbers of tissue blocks.
The Finesse ME+ provides a section thickness range from 0.5 to 100 µm and a separate trimming range from 2 to 100 µm. Three cutting modes, including continuous operation, give histotechnologists flexibility when moving between different specimens and workflows. Operators can independently select trimming and sectioning speeds, allowing faster block preparation followed by more controlled section collection.
Additional productivity features include electronic specimen advance and rewind, an AUTOLOAD function that automatically returns the specimen head to a convenient position for changing blocks, and a programmable ROCK function that allows rapid trimming without requiring complete handwheel rotations. A user-selectable cutting sector can further improve throughput by allowing the return stroke to operate faster than the optimized cutting stroke.
The digital display provides immediate information on cutting speed, section thickness, section count, and specimen advance distance. Controls can be operated from the front or side of the instrument, while wide curved armrests and a balanced flywheel support comfortable operation during extended histology workflows.
This Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+ is used and refurbished by American Instrument Exchange and is supplied with a blade holder. AIE technicians inspect and test the microtome before shipment to verify motorized and mechanical operation. The instrument is thoroughly cleaned and includes a 90-day warranty.
Key Features
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Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+ motorized electronic rotary microtome
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Designed for paraffin/wax and specialized resin sectioning
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Motorized and manual cutting capabilities
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Section thickness range from 0.5 to 100 µm
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Trim thickness range from 2 to 100 µm
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Three cutting modes, including continuous sectioning
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Independently selectable trim and section speeds
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Electronic specimen advance and rewind
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AUTOLOAD specimen positioning
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Programmable ROCK trimming function
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User-selectable cutting sector
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Digital monitoring of section thickness, speed, count, and advance distance
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Selectable specimen retraction
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Emergency stop
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Multi-language display
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Supplied with blade holder
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Used and refurbished by American Instrument Exchange
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90-day warranty included
Overview
Microtomy is a critical step in histology because tissue specimens must be cut into extremely thin, consistent sections before they can be mounted on microscope slides and stained for examination.
The Finesse ME+ combines precision rotary microtomy with electronic and motorized functions intended to reduce repetitive manual operation and improve productivity.
Unlike a completely manual microtome, the ME+ can perform motorized cutting strokes at user-selected speeds. Electronic specimen advance and rewind further reduce the amount of manual positioning required when approaching the blade, trimming blocks, collecting sections, and changing specimens.
At the same time, the instrument retains manual operation for procedures where the histotechnologist prefers direct handwheel control.
This combination makes the Finesse ME+ adaptable to both routine high-throughput histology and more specialized sectioning procedures.
Common Applications
The Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+ can support routine paraffin tissue sectioning, surgical pathology, biopsy preparation, histopathology, biomedical research, pharmaceutical pathology, toxicology, veterinary pathology, cancer research, anatomical pathology, and specialized resin sectioning.
Sections produced by the microtome may subsequently be used for routine H&E staining, special stains, immunohistochemistry, morphology studies, research microscopy, and other compatible downstream procedures.
Sectioning requirements should always be determined according to specimen characteristics, embedding medium, staining protocol, and laboratory procedures.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The Finesse ME+ is particularly well suited to hospital pathology departments, independent histology laboratories, reference laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology facilities, contract research organizations, university medical centers, veterinary pathology laboratories, toxicology facilities, cancer research laboratories, and other facilities processing paraffin or resin-embedded specimens.
Its motorized functions can be especially useful in laboratories where technicians process substantial numbers of blocks and repetitive manual sectioning contributes to operator fatigue.
Key Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Thermo Shandon |
| Model |
Finesse ME+ |
| Equipment Type |
Motorized Electronic Rotary Microtome |
| Sectioning Applications |
Wax/Paraffin and Resin |
| Cutting Operation |
Motorized or Manual |
| Section Thickness Range |
0.5–100 µm |
| Trim Thickness Range |
2–100 µm |
| Total Specimen Advance |
35 mm |
| Cutting Stroke |
65 mm |
| Maximum Advance Speed |
2,400 µm/sec |
| Specimen Retraction Range |
0–125 µm |
| Cutting Modes |
3, Including Continuous |
| Electronic Advance/Rewind |
Yes |
| Section Counter |
Yes |
| Advance Distance Display |
Yes |
| Specimen Orientation Light |
Yes |
| Knife Angle Position Locator |
Yes |
| Display Languages |
Up to 11 |
| Dimensions |
Approx. 19"W × 23"D × 13"H |
| Weight |
Approx. 88 lb / 40 kg |
| Power Requirement |
150 VA |
| U.S. Configuration |
110–120 V, 50/60 Hz |
| Blade Holder |
Included with AIE Unit |
| Condition |
Used / Refurbished |
| Warranty |
90 Days from American Instrument Exchange |
0.5–100 µm Section Thickness Range
The Finesse ME+ provides a broad section thickness range from 0.5 to 100 µm.
The lower end of this range supports very thin sectioning for appropriate histology applications, while thicker settings extend the versatility of the instrument beyond routine paraffin work.
Actual section quality depends on tissue processing, embedding medium, specimen hardness, blade selection, clearance angle, cutting speed, specimen temperature, and operator technique.
For routine histopathology, section thickness is generally selected according to tissue type and staining requirements rather than simply using the thinnest available setting.
2–100 µm Trimming Range
Before diagnostic or research sections can be collected, excess embedding material must usually be removed to expose the tissue within the block.
The Finesse ME+ provides a separate trim thickness range from 2 to 100 µm.
Independent trim and section settings allow the operator to establish one configuration for approaching the tissue and another for collecting final sections.
The ability to move rapidly between trimming and sectioning can improve workflow when numerous blocks must be processed.
Motorized Electronic Cutting
One of the primary advantages of the Finesse ME+ is its motorized cutting capability.
Instead of requiring the operator to manually rotate the handwheel for every section, the microtome can perform controlled motorized cutting strokes.
This can reduce repetitive hand and arm movement during high-volume microtomy and can provide consistent cutting motion from one section to the next.
Manual cutting remains available when the operator wants direct tactile control over the cutting stroke.
Three Cutting Modes
The Finesse ME+ provides three cutting modes, including continuous sectioning.
Different operating modes allow technicians to adapt instrument behavior to specimen characteristics and workflow requirements.
Continuous operation can be particularly useful during repetitive sectioning, while other modes provide greater operator control when approaching difficult specimens or collecting specific sections.
The appropriate mode should be selected according to specimen type and the histotechnologist's preferred technique.
Adjustable Cutting Speed
Motorized sectioning speed can be adjusted according to the material being cut.
A softer paraffin block may respond well to one cutting speed, while harder tissue or resin-embedded material may require a different approach.
The Finesse ME+ allows trimming and sectioning speeds to be selected independently.
This means the operator can trim efficiently and then reduce or otherwise adjust the speed when collecting final sections.
Electronic Specimen Advance and Rewind
Arrow-key controls provide electronic specimen advance and rewind.
This allows the specimen head to be moved toward or away from the blade without relying entirely on manual coarse-feed mechanisms.
Fast positioning can simplify initial setup, while finer electronic control allows the operator to approach the cutting position more carefully.
Electronic rewind is also useful when changing blocks or repositioning the specimen.
AUTOLOAD Specimen Positioning
High-throughput histology laboratories frequently need to change blocks throughout the working day.
The Finesse ME+ AUTOLOAD function automatically resets the specimen head to a convenient ready position for changing specimens.
Automating this repetitive positioning step can reduce setup time between blocks.
Once the new block is installed, the specimen can be advanced toward the blade and prepared for trimming.
Programmable ROCK Function
The ROCK function provides an alternative method of trimming a specimen.
Rather than requiring complete rotations of the handwheel, the specimen head can be advanced by a programmed amount as the operator rocks the handwheel through a limited movement.
This can make trimming faster and more convenient, particularly during the initial approach to the tissue.
Once the appropriate block face has been established, the operator can transition to the desired sectioning mode.
User-Selectable Cutting Sector
The Finesse ME+ incorporates a user-selectable cutting sector designed to improve throughput.
During a normal rotary microtome cycle, only part of the specimen's travel represents the actual cutting stroke.
The cutting-sector control allows the return portion of the cycle to occur more rapidly while maintaining the selected cutting speed during the critical portion of specimen travel across the blade.
This reduces unnecessary cycle time without requiring the actual sectioning stroke to be accelerated.
35 mm Total Specimen Advance
Thermo specifies 35 mm of total specimen advance for the Finesse ME+.
This provides substantial travel for positioning and sectioning standard histology blocks and compatible specialized specimens.
The system also provides an advance-distance display so the operator can monitor specimen travel electronically.
Automatic and electronic positioning functions help make effective use of the available specimen travel during routine work.
Selectable Specimen Retraction
The Finesse ME+ provides adjustable specimen retraction from 0 to 125 µm.
Retraction moves the specimen slightly away from the blade during the return portion of the cutting cycle.
This can help prevent the block face from dragging against the blade during return travel.
Retraction requirements may vary according to specimen type, embedding medium, blade configuration, and laboratory technique.
Digital Operating Display
The electronic display provides information useful during both setup and active sectioning.
Parameters displayed include cutting speed, section count, section thickness, and specimen advance distance.
Having these values visible during operation allows technicians to confirm settings without relying solely on mechanical controls.
This can also make it easier to reproduce established sectioning parameters when processing similar specimens.
Section Counter
An integrated section counter tracks cutting cycles during operation.
This can be useful when a histotechnologist needs to monitor how many sections have been produced or maintain a consistent workflow while preparing serial sections.
Section counting does not replace visual evaluation of section quality, but it provides a convenient additional reference during repetitive cutting procedures.
Specimen Orientation Light
The Finesse ME+ incorporates a specimen orientation light to improve visibility around the specimen and cutting area.
Good visibility is important when aligning a paraffin block, approaching tissue during trimming, or adjusting specimen orientation relative to the blade.
Lighting is particularly useful when working with small specimens or attempting to minimize unnecessary removal of embedded tissue.
Knife Angle Position Locator
Blade or knife angle can influence section quality.
The Finesse ME+ includes a knife-angle position locator to help operators establish and reproduce the cutting geometry.
Proper clearance angle helps the blade pass cleanly through the specimen while limiting compression, chatter, or other sectioning artifacts.
The optimal setting depends on blade type, specimen characteristics, and laboratory technique.
Blade Holder Included
This American Instrument Exchange unit is supplied with a blade holder.
The Finesse ME+ platform was designed to support multiple cutting configurations, including disposable blades and traditional or specialized knives when equipped with the appropriate holder.
The exact holder supplied with the individual AIE unit should be reviewed before purchase if your laboratory requires a particular blade profile.
Additional specimen clamps and blade-holder configurations may be available separately.
Paraffin Tissue Sectioning
Routine paraffin histology is one of the primary applications for the Finesse ME+.
After tissue is fixed, processed, and embedded in paraffin, the block is mounted on the microtome and trimmed until the specimen is exposed.
Thin sections are then collected, floated if necessary, mounted onto microscope slides, and prepared for staining.
Motorized cutting and electronic specimen positioning can make this repetitive process more efficient in laboratories handling substantial numbers of paraffin blocks.
Resin Sectioning
The Finesse ME+ was also designed to accommodate specialized resin work when properly configured.
Resin embedding can be used for specimens requiring a harder embedding medium or specialized sectioning procedures.
Because resin can behave very differently from paraffin during cutting, appropriate blades or knives, specimen holders, cutting speeds, thickness settings, and techniques must be selected.
The ability to vary cutting speed and configure the Finesse platform with different holders increases its usefulness for these applications.
Surgical Pathology
Surgical pathology laboratories can use the Finesse ME+ to prepare paraffin sections from biopsies, resections, and other processed tissue specimens.
Consistent sectioning is important because the resulting slides must preserve tissue morphology for microscopic examination.
The motorized cutting system can be particularly useful in higher-volume pathology departments where technicians may process large numbers of blocks during a shift.
Biopsy Sectioning
Small biopsy specimens require careful sectioning because the amount of available tissue may be limited.
Electronic specimen positioning, adjustable trimming, specimen illumination, and controlled cutting speed allow the operator to approach the tissue carefully.
As with any microtome, conserving biopsy tissue ultimately depends on appropriate embedding, careful trimming, blade condition, and operator technique.
Histopathology and H&E Preparation
Sections prepared on the Finesse ME+ can be used in routine histopathology workflows, including hematoxylin and eosin staining.
The microtome's role is to produce thin, consistent tissue sections suitable for transfer to microscope slides.
Subsequent slide quality also depends on flotation, mounting, drying, staining, coverslipping, and the quality of all preceding tissue-processing steps.
Immunohistochemistry Workflows
Paraffin sections prepared using the Finesse ME+ may also be used for immunohistochemistry when produced according to the laboratory's validated procedures.
Consistent section thickness can be important when comparing staining characteristics across slides.
The broad thickness range and controlled cutting functions allow laboratories to establish sectioning conditions appropriate for their particular specimens and downstream staining methods.
Motorized vs. Manual Microtomes
Manual microtomes require the operator to rotate the handwheel for each cutting cycle.
The Finesse ME+ adds motorized cutting, allowing the instrument to perform the repetitive cutting motion automatically.
This can reduce repetitive physical effort and increase throughput in busy histology laboratories.
The ME+ retains manual operation, however, giving technicians the option of direct handwheel control when desired.
This combination provides more flexibility than a purely manual instrument.
Microtome vs. Cryostat
The Finesse ME+ is a benchtop rotary microtome designed primarily for sectioning embedded specimens.
A cryostat combines a microtome with a refrigerated chamber and is designed for frozen tissue sectioning.
The two systems therefore serve different histology workflows.
Laboratories processing routine paraffin blocks generally use a conventional rotary microtome such as the Finesse ME+, while frozen-section procedures require a cryostat.
Ergonomic Operator Design
Histotechnologists may spend extended periods operating a microtome, making ergonomics an important consideration.
The Finesse ME+ incorporates wide curved armrests and can be operated from either front or side positions.
The balanced, free-running flywheel supports manual sectioning when required, while motorized operation reduces repetitive handwheel rotation.
The best workstation configuration will depend on operator height, chair position, bench height, and laboratory workflow.
Emergency Stop
The Finesse ME+ includes an emergency-stop control that immediately interrupts motor power.
This is particularly important on a motorized microtome because the cutting mechanism can move without continuous manual handwheel rotation.
Normal microtome safety procedures remain essential. The cutting edge should be guarded whenever the blade area is being accessed, and the instrument should be secured appropriately before changing specimens, blades, or holders.
Multi-Language Controls
Commands can be displayed in up to 11 languages.
This can be useful in laboratories with diverse technical staff or facilities operating standardized equipment across multiple international locations.
Clear on-screen operating information also helps reduce dependence on memorizing control functions.
Standby and Parameter Memory
A standby function allows the instrument to enter a reduced-operation state while retaining customized parameters in memory.
This can be convenient when the microtome is used intermittently during the workday.
Rather than recreating preferred settings after every pause, the operator can return to previously established parameters.
High-Throughput Histology
Several Finesse ME+ features are particularly valuable in higher-volume laboratories.
Motorized cutting reduces repetitive handwheel operation. AUTOLOAD simplifies block changes. The cutting-sector function reduces unnecessary return-stroke time. Electronic advance and rewind speed specimen positioning, while continuous cutting supports repetitive section production.
Together, these functions can help streamline the sectioning portion of a busy histology workflow.
Refurbishment and Testing by American Instrument Exchange
American Instrument Exchange tests used microtomes before shipment to verify mechanical and electronic operation.
For the Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+, technicians can evaluate motorized cutting, manual operation, electronic specimen advance and rewind, section-thickness adjustment, trimming controls, display functions, specimen travel, emergency stop, blade-holder operation, and other installed functions.
The instrument and accessible components are also thoroughly cleaned before shipment.
Customers with specific testing requirements are encouraged to contact American Instrument Exchange before shipment so those requirements can be considered during testing.
Why Buy a Refurbished Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+?
The Finesse ME+ provides a combination of precision microtomy and productivity features that remains useful for modern histology laboratories.
Motorized cutting, electronic specimen positioning, independent trimming and sectioning speeds, programmable ROCK operation, AUTOLOAD positioning, continuous sectioning, and a broad 0.5–100 µm section range provide significantly more functionality than a basic manual microtome.
Purchasing a used and refurbished Finesse ME+ from American Instrument Exchange can provide these capabilities at a lower acquisition cost than purchasing a new motorized microtome.
AIE tests and cleans the instrument before shipment and includes a 90-day warranty.
Shipping and Installation
The Finesse ME+ measures approximately 19"W × 23"D × 13"H and weighs approximately 88 pounds.
It should be installed on a solid, level laboratory bench with sufficient working space for safe access to the specimen head, blade holder, handwheel, controls, and accessories.
The U.S. configuration was manufactured for 110–120 V, 50/60 Hz operation with a 150 VA power requirement. The nameplate on the individual unit should be verified before connection.
Ergonomic workstation height and operator positioning should also be considered for laboratories where microtomy is performed for extended periods.
Related Equipment
Histology laboratories using the Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+ may also require tissue processors, paraffin embedding centers, tissue flotation baths, slide warmers, histology ovens, staining systems, coverslippers, microscopes, cryostats, laboratory refrigerators, and other anatomical pathology equipment.
American Instrument Exchange supplies used and refurbished microtomes, cryostats, water baths, microscopes, centrifuges, cold storage, and other laboratory equipment for pathology, histology, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, biomedical, and academic laboratories.
Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+ Microtome FAQs
What is the Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+?
The Finesse ME+ is a motorized electronic rotary microtome designed for sectioning paraffin/wax and compatible resin-embedded specimens.
Is the Finesse ME+ a motorized microtome?
Yes. Motorized cutting is a principal feature of the ME+.
Can the Finesse ME+ also be operated manually?
Yes. It provides both manual and motorized cutting operation.
What is the section thickness range?
Thermo specifies a section thickness range from 0.5 to 100 µm.
What is the trimming range?
The trim thickness range is 2 to 100 µm.
What is the total specimen advance?
The Finesse ME+ provides 35 mm of total specimen advance.
What is the cutting stroke?
Thermo specifies a 65 mm cutting stroke.
What is the maximum specimen advance speed?
The maximum advance speed is 2,400 µm per second.
Does the Finesse ME+ provide specimen retraction?
Yes. The selectable retraction range is 0 to 125 µm.
How many cutting modes are available?
The Finesse ME+ provides three cutting modes, including continuous operation.
What is the ROCK function?
ROCK allows the operator to advance and trim the specimen using a limited handwheel rocking motion rather than making complete rotations.
What does AUTOLOAD do?
AUTOLOAD automatically moves the specimen head to a convenient ready position for changing blocks, helping streamline high-throughput workflows.
Can trim and section speeds be set independently?
Yes. The Finesse ME+ allows separate cutting speeds to be selected for trimming and final sectioning.
What does the digital display show?
The display monitors functions including cutting speed, section count, section thickness, and specimen advance distance.
Does the microtome have electronic advance and rewind?
Yes. Arrow-key controls provide electronic specimen advance and rewind.
What is the cutting-sector function?
It allows the return portion of the cutting cycle to operate more rapidly than the optimized sectioning stroke, reducing unnecessary cycle time.
Can the Finesse ME+ cut paraffin blocks?
Yes. Routine wax/paraffin sectioning is one of its primary applications.
Can it section resin-embedded specimens?
Yes. Thermo designed the Finesse platform to support specialized resin sectioning when configured with appropriate holders, knives, and operating parameters.
Is this microtome suitable for histopathology?
Yes. The Finesse ME+ is well suited to routine histology and pathology laboratories preparing tissue sections for microscopic examination.
Can sections be prepared for immunohistochemistry?
Yes. Properly prepared paraffin sections from the Finesse ME+ can support compatible IHC workflows.
Does it have an emergency stop?
Yes. The emergency-stop control immediately cuts power to the motor.
Can the controls be viewed in multiple languages?
Yes. The Finesse ME+ supports commands in up to 11 languages.
Does this AIE unit include a blade holder?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange lists this particular Finesse ME+ with a blade holder.
What are the dimensions?
The instrument measures approximately 19 inches wide × 23 inches deep × 13 inches high.
How much does it weigh?
The Finesse ME+ weighs approximately 88 pounds, or 40 kg.
Is this Thermo Shandon Finesse ME+ refurbished?
Yes. This unit is used and refurbished by American Instrument Exchange.
Does it include a warranty?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange includes a 90-day warranty with this refurbished microtome.
