Microscopes

Vernier scales can be used on microscopes, stereotaxic frames and micromanipulators. The vernier scale was invented by French mathematician Pierre Vernier in 1631 as an upgrade on Pedro Nunes' measurement system for precision astrolobes. With a main scale and a sliding secondary scale, a vernier is used for making precise measurements. 

How a Vernier Scale Works

The vernier scale is marked with divisions slightly smaller than the divisions of the main scale. For example, a vernier scale could have 11 markings for every 10 on the main scale. That's 10 divisions on the vernier scale for every 9 on the main scale. This means that the vernier divisions are each 90% of the main scale divisions. In this case, the 0-line and the 10-line...more

[by Alec Dickson] 

WPI's FluoroDish™ tissue culture dishes provide exceptional imaging quality for many applications requiring the use of inverted microscopes such as high-resolution image analysis, microinjection and electrophysical recording of fluorescent-tagged cells. We have a 50 mm diameter dish and two types of 35 mm diameter dishes.

 

Better Optical Properties than Polycarbonate

Each WPI dish has a flat (0.17mm±0.01mm thick), optical quality glass bottom, allowing...more

Watch as Barney and Kelly Boyce set up an InVivo microscope chamber. Ideal for live cell imaging, the chambers, along with heaters, carbon dioxide and oxygen controllers and stagetop environments are sold by World Precision Instruments.

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Watch as Gabe turns a binocular surgical microscope into a trinocular microscope and adds a video camera.

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The PSMB5N Surgical Microscope has a motorized focusing system that allows for hands free operation. It is lightweight, compact and easy to maneuver. Dual bulbs prevent illumination failure during surgery. It has an optional video adapter and five magnification steps. This video shows you how to assemble your microscope.

Safety is a primary concern when setting up equipment. Here are a few pointers.

• This setup requires open space to work in.
• Be sure to remove the packing materials as soon as you unpack your boxes.
• Watch your hands when you are using a box cutter.
• The articulating arm is spring loaded. Be sure to release the tension on it in a controlled manner.
• Be sure to remove all parts from the boxes before you throw the...more

You can use the PZMIV stereo microscope with a stereotaxic frame as shown in the image below. This setup shows a PZMIV-BS. The U-frame Base Plate (502045) is shown, but most stereotaxic frames can be used in this way. Choose a stereo microscope objective that allows you plenty of room to work. For example, the 0.5X objective has 187mm working distance, or the 0.32X objective has 296mm working distance. You could also add a Z-LITE-Z186 illuminator. If necessary, use a 5 to 10 lb.counter weight on the boom stand base to prevent the microscope from tipping.

...more

When it comes to setting up microinjection systems, the options appear endless. The pictures below give some broad suggestions on how you might set up your own system. Keep in mind that many parts are interchangeable depending on your needs or preferences.

In general, you will need a stereo microscope on a stand, a light source, one or two micromanipulators with stands, and one or two injection systems. The following images show various setups for microinjection, and all the WPI part numbers are included for easy reference.

Remember, when you set up your own system, choose the parts that fit your needs. For example:

• M10 or the M9 magnetic base could be used.
• PZMIV...more

These instructions describe how to properly focus a binocular microscope.

1. Turn on the lamp and adjust its intensity.
2. Adjust the interpupilary distance so that the two circles of light merge into one.
3. Place a sample on the stage.
4. Select the 10X objective and look through the right eyepiece only.
5. Use the coarse and fine focus control knobs to adjust the focus of the sample.
6. When the sample is clearly visible, use only your left eye. Do NOT adjust the focus knobs. Instead, adjust the diopter on the left eyepiece until the sample comes clearly into view. The image should be clear with both eyes open.
7. Choose the desired objective. You may need to adjust the fine focus a little.

Camera/Microscope Configuration Chart

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Types

It is common for a researcher to attach a camera to a microscope. Three types of cameras are available, and two are suitable for microscopy work:

• Television (Direct video)
  • 4:3 old style video, NTSC, PAL, 480i
  • 16:9 HDTV (DVI 1.0 compliant), 720P
• Computer capture
  • USB connection
  • Firewire connection
• Commercial cameras
  • Fixed lens cameras
  • SLR cameras

First, determine what you want to do:...more

NOTE: For an introduction to microscopes, see Microscope Basics.

A variety of microscope objectives are available. All objectives use lenses to focus light. Light is broken down into various wavelengths (colors) as it travels through a lens. The various wavelengths have different focal points. That means that red, green and blue appears to focus at different points. This is called chromatic aberration. Spherical aberrations are...more

Microscopes are a standard laboratory tool, but purchasing the right microscope for a particular application can be a challenge. First, consider how you will use the instrument. Are you looking at slides, dissecting a small animal or performing a surgery? (The application dictates the necessary working distance and power of magnification.) What kind of a stand will you be using? (Boom stand, articulating arm or post stand) Will the microscope be used in a classroom setting? (A trinocular scope offers the option of including a camera.) Will you need a camera? (A camera allows you to project the microscope...more