We are considering adding a table-top carbon coater to our microprobe lab, primarily for use with quantitative analysis of hard rock thin sections.  The lab currently has an old Ladd coater still in functioning condition (an older version of the floor model: http://www.laddresearch.com/floor-model-ladd-vacuum-evaporator-with-turbo-pump).  When the Ladd is working well, it can produce very nice carbon coats.  However, considering the time needed to use it (1-1.5 hours for an experienced user) and the occasional repair, it would be beneficial to have another coater that is faster and easier, even if it does not yield the same quality coat.  We don't have the funding to purchase a new Ladd, which appears to be faster and easier to use, but we could purchase a less expensive table-top coater.