Under the Lens


Under the Lens



Volume No. II
October 1997
Issue No. 2



NEWS FLASHES

ITSI on-line ...
Over the summer we have set up our web-site. The address is www.itsi-ai.com. The site includes a copy of our catalogue, (though I will admit that it requires some more work), and also contains a copy of each newsletter. A section of FAQ's or frequently asked questions has been included for your reference. It is our goal to add on to the FAQs component on a regular basis.

For those of you who like to make use of technology your orders can be e-mailed orders@itsi-ai.com. E-mail orders will be confirmed by return e-mail, so please include your address! If you have an inquiry please send an e-mail to information@itsi-ai.com. For those who like to play and would like to say "Hi" the address is itsi@itsi-ai.com.

A Manitoba Distributor ...
Brad Cramer and Dennis Thiessen have recently joined us as the distributors for the province of Manitoba. Both have extensive experience in the swine industry, but admit they have a few things to learn about AI. Their warehouse is located at Brunkild and is stocked with a selection of AI equipment and supplies. You can reach these enthusiastic Manitobans at 204-736-4112 (phone and fax).

The Quebec Connection ...
Tom Bator of Nutrimix Conseils in Quebec City has joined ITSI's dealer network and will carry a full line of AI supplies and equipment for the Quebec market. Tom can be reached at 418-692-1932.

Ultrasound Technology ...
Have you looked at ultrasound pregnancy testers with longing in your eyes? We may have the solution you are looking for. ITSI has recently been awarded the dealership for Dymax. This company specializes in ultrasound technology and recently initiated its marketing strategy for North America. The units are light, portable and include 2 rechargeable batteries. Take a moment to consider the enclosed flier and determine whether you can afford to feed open sows.

Semen Storage...
As many of you may be aware, we have been very short of Koolatrons over the past 9 months. The manufacturer's decision to discontinue the product line came very unexpected. We are pleased to introduce you to the ITSI Cool- Box. The shell is manufactured by Koolatron, but here the similarity to previous products ends. The unit is controlled by a computer chip and will automatically switch between heating and cooling as required. The temperature is preset to 17°C before the unit leaves the shop. A small fan has been incorporated to improve air circulation and temperature consistency. These units provide excellent semen storage capability.

For those who require more space 5ft³ and 17ft³ storage units are also available. These too include a fan and will switch automatically between heating and cooling. Both units have a digital control for quick and easy temperature verification.

Specialized Equipment ...
Even though they are not listed we also carry a selection or more specialized equipment such as (semi)automatic packaging systems, 30, 60 and 100L extender vats and tube sealers. If you are in the market for these or any other products please do not hesitate to give us a call. If we do not have it available, we will be pleased to find the product for you!

Fall is here already. I hate to remind you of that old cliche, but "where has the summer gone?" It is not very difficult to get caught up in our routines and forget about the important things in life. At this time of Thanksgiving, take some time to enjoy the beautiful trees, gorgeous fall weather and especially the company of family and friends.

CLASSICAL SWINE FEVER

The Dutch outbreak of CSF reitterates the importance of biosecurity. The initial outbreaks were determined in February of this year. It was anticipated that the situation would be under control by the end of June. Unfortunately a new outbreak was determined as recently as October 7th. The financial, economic and psychological impact of a disease outbreak is tremendous. Some days our down-time and shower policies are an inconvenience and appear to be a waste of time, yet when compared to the damaging effect of CSF showers and down-time are best left in place.

COLLECTION FILTERS

In June we introduced new collection filters. The feedback on these filters has been rather varied. Some find that the semen does not drain through fast- enough, while others have no desire to ever again use a piece of gauze or cheese cloth. Perhaps the drainage problem can be rectified by increasing the size of the funnel.

Fold a filter in half and then make a second fold to create approximately 1/3 section of a circle. Create a funnel by opening the filter between the two large sections, insert the funnel in the cup, fold over the edge and snap in place with an elastic.

MICROSCOPE CLEANING

In our travels we find that many microscopes are collecting a significant amount of dirt on the eyepiece and objective lenses. It is very simple to clean the lenses and improve the "‘scoping experience." Moisten a piece of lens paper, soft cloth or Q-tip with lens cleaner or water and gently rub the lenses clean. Do not use commercial glass cleaners like Windex as these products will affect the seals holding the lenses in place, eventually decreasing the microscope's ability to give a crisp and clear enlargement of the sperm cells. You may have to repeat the procedure a couple of times if the lenses are extremely dirty or streaks occur.

IN CLOSING...

As always, we look forward to hearing from you. As mentioned you can send us an e-mail or fax. If you prefer you can also call us in person.

Insemination Technics and Supplies International, Inc. 1-800-692-4874

Ontario: 519-458-4856

Alberta: 403-944-2575

Manitoba: 204-736-4112

Quebec: 418-692-1932

Nova Scotia: 902-538-3273


ITSI Logo
Main PageProductsPartnersFAQsNewsletters
About UsServicesContact UsLinksE-Mail

[Main Page] [About Us] [Products] [Services] [Partners] [Contact Us] [FAQs] [Links] [Newsletters] [Spanish Introduction] [E-Mail]

Last Updated November 4, 1997
Copyright © Insemination Technics and Supplies International 1997
This ITSI web site is best viewed with a tables capable browser and an
800 x 600 pixel screen resolution (and for MSIE users, normal font size).


Site Design & Maintenance by Galganov