OLYMPUS BX50 Upright Laboratory/Research Microscope
The BX50 compound microscope is designed for those who need a routine microscope with a little bit more in the way of features. The BX50 has a "Y"-shaped design, a bright light source, and a set of filters for improved photomicrogaphy. The light source is a 12V/100W halogen bulb for transmitted light viewing. Three built-in filters can be combined or used individually. An optional trinocular observation tube (also available in superwide) accepts photo, video and digital camera attachments. VayTek suggests this camera be used in conjunction with a Ludl controller and VayTek's VolumeScan software.

• filters: 2 neutral density, one daylight balancing
• light intensity, preset switch for reproducible light
• focus control on both left and right sides of frame
• 22mm field of view (superwide trinocular head and eyepiece combo with a 26.5 mm field of view is availabe as an option)
• UIS optics
• inward facing five-position nosepiece
• 6V/30W halogen illumination with photo-preset button for bright images and photo doumentation
• phase condenser allows rapid changeover from 4x to 100x and automatic opening of aperture diaphragm in Phase Contrast positions
• optional attachments include different multi-headed viewing attachments, which allow up to 10 users to observe a single specimen at the same time. Built-in pointer allows teachers to highlight areas of interest.

OLYMPUS AX70 Research System Microscope
The AX70 is a top-of-the-line upright platform research microscope capable of numerous configurations. UIS optics and a range of options and configurations allow for "everything from automated remote inspection to water immersion to macro imaging" as the manufacturer says.

• built-in incident light fluorescence illuminator
• REXBA excitation balancer: filter system used to balance relative strength of multiple fluorescence signals in a single image. User adjustable in three regions: UV, blue and green.
• 8-position filter turret, will hold eight fluorescence filter sets
• dual lamphouse allows two light sources to be attached simultaneously, such as a xenon and mercury lamp
• chromatically corrected collector lens
• multi-camera observation tube, a mulitple port head that can support up to five film or CCD cameras simultaneously Port selection motorized.
• dual camera port DPT-2 will attach two film or CCD cameras
• spectral separation dual camera port DTP-3 will attach two CCD cameras with user-selectable beam-splitter for wavelength separation
• many key components can be motorized: nosepiece, filter cube turret, multi-camera observation tube, condenser, filters, focus drive, optional motorized stages from third party vendors, etc.
• can be controlled remotely via a PC through two RS-232 ports
• macro imaging with 0.5x objective
  

The Olympus inverted system microscope, Model IX, offers superb resolution and contrast. The UIS infinity-corrected optical system illustrated here combines with the simplicity of the single reflection of the light path and the imaging excellence of an apochromatic relay lense to maintain the highest possible image intensity and to arrive at the highest optical correction level.

This microscope also features:

• optimal quality and brightness for fluorescence images
• assured image quality with any kind of tissue culture vesseles.
• image ports allow different recording analysis processes to be used.
• extended field of view for fatigue-free observation
• anti-vibration design
• noise-free electronics
• optical system protected from heat
• easy and stable mounting of micromanipulators
• accessories designed for electrophysiological experiments
• waterproof and dust-proof
• built in centering telescope and light-excluding shutter
• rapid excitation method selection
• convenient multifunction illumination pillars
• easy focusing for photomicrography

For more information on the OLYMPUS IX Microscopes, contact VayTek, Inc.

Microscopes: ZEISS

Zeiss Axioplan 2 microscope Designed for fluorescence imaging, with optimum contrast and stability in multifluorescence applications. May be manually controlled or motorized.

push and click filter cubes accessible diaphragm planes customizable macro function keys double video adapter DIC after Nomarski, also with Senarmont ICS optics AxioVision software high speed shutter harmonic drive motorized double TV tube upgradable for confocal systems 8 filter positions with field 25 SoftStop vibration damping automatic change with motorized DIC condenser (for example, automatically change from 40x DIC to 40x FITC) AxioCam available for digital photography See Microscope Comparison database for more information, or contact VayTek. Inquire about the Axiplan 2 MOT Imaging E microscope for the Axioplan variation best suited to split-second live imaging, with high-speed fluorescence shutter, motorized double TV tube, motorized z-axis, etc. Exposure times in fluorescence of as little as 20 milliseconds, vibration-free positioning of objectives, reflector modules and filter wheels to prevent pixel shift in multi-channel fluorescense. Third camera can be attached via the double video adapter.

Zeiss Axioskop 2 microscope The Axioskop 2 comes with Zeiss ICS infinity optics. The visual field is optimum in size. The universal achromatic-aplanatic turret condenser suits objectives from 1.25x to 100x. Its seven turret positions permit fast change between all contrasting techniques - brightfield, darkfield, DIC and phase contrast. The stage carrier with its dual slideways provides stability for still images. The stand, designed to readily accommodate reflected-light systems, comes with a reflector turret to receive modules for fluorescence, secondary magnification or DIC. For full compatibility, the mounting interfaces for tubes, stages, condensers, objectives and eyepieces are identical to those of other Zeiss microscopes and accessories.

Zeiss Axioskop 2 microscope Select from four reflector modules. Change-over is fast and vibration-free. Further features include a 6-place excitation filter slide, lamp centering aid for epi-illumination; re-designed beam path for maximum brightness; and DIC by a flick of a switch. The 12 V/100 W halogen illuminator ensures optimally lit images. The AttoArc system provides continuous brightness control between 100% and 15%. Extra brightness for fluorescence applications is provided by the HBO 103 lamp. Accessories allow you to upgrade the Axioskop 2 or Axioskop 2 MOT to match varying requirements: Trinocular tubes, ceramic-lined stages, condensers, objectives and eyepieces, modules for transmitted-light and reflected-light observation, co-observation bridges for up to ten (or more) observers, video- and photomicrography, etc. The Axioskop 2 MOT connects readily to all PCs. Axioskop 2 is the choice if you are looking for a routine microscope of the classical manual type. Axioskop 2 MOT is ideal if you want a routine microscope which carries out many functions automatically. See Microscope Comparison database for more information, or contact VayTek.

Nikon Eclipse E1000/E1000M

Auto Link Focusing (ALF) eliminates the need to fine-adjust the focus manually with each objective change.

Motorized nosepiece and condenser provide accuracy, and offer control for switching from dry to oil/water immersion objectives.

Motorized 5-position Epi-Fluorescence for multicolor fluorescence observation such as FISH. Filter block change and shutter operation are performed with the touch of a button.

Motorized Micro/Macro Condenser automatically moves condenser lens out of the optical path during epi-fluorescence observation. Auto Koehler System - motorized field stop, aperture stop and motorized continuous ND filter system (ND1 to ND8). RS232-C Interface for computer control of all motorized functions.

System set-up uses Bar Code System which reduces data entries by 80%, including setting for automatic Koehler Illumination. Smart Card option available for instant recall of custom settings in an environment where more than one researcher is using the same microscope. System Flexibility and Modular Design can upgrade by adding various modules such as epi-fluorescence, beamsplitter or magnification module. A super rigid structure, with wide base and arm, ensures stable image acquisition at high magnifications. The E1000 can withstand loads five times heavier than conventional models

CFI60 Optics, widest magnification range, 0.5X objective (for actual size documentation), longer parallel optical path, fluorescence observation capability. Ultra-wide viewing is standard with 25mm field number eyepieces. Motorized, Brightfield 7 position Nosepiece is interchangeable with manual 7 position reversed nosepiece and 6 position DIC nosepiece. 12V/100W external transformer precentered and prefocused for simple setup.

E1000M is a special stand for macro observation with 0.5X objective for 1:1 specimen documentation. Motorized drum type triple macro condenser and macro slider allows use of the same condenser from 0.5X to100X . Magnification: 10X-1500X (5X-1500X in E1000; Up to 3000X with Mag. module) for observation; 2X-500X (1X-500X in E1000; Up to 1000X with Mag. module) for 35mm photomicrography.

Optical system : CFI60 System (Infinity optical system); Parfocal distance: 60mm
Eyepiece: 10X (F.O.V.: 25mm); Diameter: 32mm; Option: 10X (F.O.V.: 22mm); 15X (F.O.V.: 14.5mm)
Photo lens : PLI Projection lens: 2X, 2.5X, 4X, 5X
Epi-fluorescence Illuminator (Option) : Motorized filter changer; Built-in type (Inserted into the arm) 5 filter blocks mountable; motorized shutter.
Coarse/fine focusing: Motorized Coarse/Fine focusing system 0.05 µm per step; Fine: 0.1mm per rotation, Coarse: 5.0mm per rotation; Minimum scale: 1 micron on left side knob; Coarse motion torque adjustable; Stage handle and focusing knob are at equal distance from the operator. ALF: Motorized auto-link-focusing adjusts focus to preset offsets to keep image in focus when changing objective.
Auto Koehler System : Motorized field stop, motorized aperture stop (E1000M - motorized condenser & macro slider changer system 14.0mm (0.6in)).
Auto Intensity Control System: Motorized continuous ND filter system ND1 to ND80.
Filter: Filter magazine incorporated and detachable: Accepts 4 filters (Standard: Diffuser, ND32, ND8, NCB II); Optional filters (dia. 52mm wratten filters) mountable on field lens unit

Eclipse E800/E800
A high-performance microscope capable of handling any technique from basic through advanced research microscopy. Apochromat 0.5X and 1X objectives. Modular Design accepts a line of dedicated modules integrated into the structure of the
stand.

E800 has wide base and arm for stable image acquisition at high magnifications. Can withstand loads five times heavier than conventional models.

CFI60 Optics longest working distance with high numerical aperture objectives, widest magnification range, world's first 0.5x objective (for actual size documentation), longer parallel optical path, unequaled fluorescence observation capability.

Three-way tilting trinocular tube adjusts from 10-30 degrees to achieve most comfortable viewing angle.

Ultra-wide viewing is standard with 25mm field number eyepieces. Interchangeable, 6 position reversed nosepiece.

Lamphouse illumination with 12V/100W external transformer.

Integrated 5 place linear fluorescent filter changer. Fluorescence components attach inside the main body. Four built-in diascopic filters.

E800M is a special stand for macro observation.

Unique drum type triple macro condenser allows the same condenser to be used from 0.5X to 100X .

Magnification : 10X-1500X (5X-1500Xin E800M; Up to 3000X with Mag. module) for observation;2X-500X (1X-500X in E800M; Up to 1000X with Mag. module) for 35mm photomicrography

Optical system : CFI 60 System (Infinity optical system); Parfocal distance: 60mm. Eyepiece : 10X (F.O.V.: 25mm) Diameter: 32mm; Option: 10X (F.O.V. 22mm), 15X (F.O.V. 14.5mm). Photo lens : PLI Projection lens: 2X, 2.5X, 4X, 5X. Epi-fluorescence : Built-in type (Inserted into the arm) 5 filter blocks mountable

Epi-fluorescence Illuminator (option) : Nosepiece : Sextuple Nosepiece, Sextuple DIC Nosepiece (analyzer slot equipped)

Substage : Vertical movement range: 32mm

Illumination : 12V 100W LL Halogen Lamp, Precentered and prefocused, (Option: Centerable with reflection mirror type); Autophoto switch (Adjustable 8-10V with 0.1 V step) equipped.

Filters : Filter magazine incorporated and detachable: Accepts 5 filters (Standard: ND2, ND8, ND32, GIF, Diffuser); NCB II filter seperately equipped. Optional filters (dia. 52mm wratten filters) mountable on field lens unit

Eclipse TE2000 (not pictured): This inverted microscope from Nikon is available in three models. The models emphasize suitability for live cell microscopy and multiple ports for a lot of flexibility in configuration. Multiple epifluorescence techniques may be used simultaneously or sequentially, allowing other techniques such as high-resolution deconvolution of 3-D images, which may be incorporated with FRAP (fluorescence recovery after photobleaching) or FRET applications. The Eclipse TE2000 is intended for advanced research that requires image capture in 3-D, including confocal microscopy and deconvolution processing. Among other automated features, the TE2000 features a high-precision Z-focus. Contact VayTek for more information.

Microscopes: Leica

Leica DMR
Robust stands with high mechanical stability and modularity. Well adjustable stand outfits according to applicational requirements. Stand outfits with fixed (DMR) or interchangeable nosepieces (DMRX); with mechanical focusing system; with electronic focusing system, encoded nosepiece and digital Z-axis readout; with motorized functions. (DMRXA) 6-place BF/DF- or 7-place BF -nosepiece. Two channel illumination technique with fixed diaphragms and iris-aperture-field diaphragms. Instant changeover of all reflected and transmitted light methods. Maximum flatness of field 22mm or 25mm provides much information in one view.

Built-in 12V 100W illumination system. Mechanical or electronic focus drive. As an alternative to the high-precision mechanical planetary gears, each configuration is also available with electronic focusing and coded, intelligent objective nosepieces. The (E) version of the stand offers you 5 focusing steps by turning a knob and additional quick focusing at the press of a button, settable focus stop, electronic parfocality matching, digital display of the Z axis movement and objective magnification.

Optimized contrasting techniques. The incident light axis has been further improved, resulting in visible and tangible enhancement of image contrast, image homogeneity. The annular mirror technology provides better darkfield contrast. Due to 2-channel diaphragm module technology, the contrasting techniques can be operated with fixed or variable diaphragms. Fluorescence intensity is now even higher and filter cubes can be changed without any image displacement (0 pixel shift technology).

Flexible illumination system. The stand has four lamphousing ports, so that two incident and twotransmitted light sources can be connected simultaneously.

All Leica DM R systems with electronic and automatic function modules have a standard RS 232 C interface, via which you can store microscope data, e.g. magnification, lamp setting, Z axis position together with image information. The electronic Z drive indicates the focus position with the precision of a dial gauge providing a non-contact method of measuring the topography of a sample. Leica offers the DMR series in many different configurations. Contact VayTek for more information.

LEICA DM IRB/E
An inverted research microscope for biology and medicine, with infinity optics from Leica Wetzlar. A choice of several different versions of the stand and the modular design allow the user to configure the microscope. The LEICA DM IRB/E is also compatible with a wide range of photographic equipment (SLR camera, photomicro systems or video applications for amplification of residual light or image processing) to cater for all image documentation requirements.

Modular stand: All stands with built in Bertrand lens and side port (80% or 100%) and 12 Volt / 100 Watt transmitted light illumination. Ergonomic stand with specialized automated, electronic or manual features for Micromanipulation System solutions and work-stations for IVF, ICSI, Transgenic, Patch-Clamp, Ca-Rationing or Confocal Microscopy. High variety of tubes, including different trinocular and ergonomic tubes. Optimized fluorescence, with centrable field and aperture diaphragms, ergonomic alignment and up to 4 rotatable filter blocks (Zero Pixel Shift), motorized or manual version possible. Variety of lamphouses with 4 or 6 lenses, Halogen, Hg-, or Xe-Burner, with UV- and Quarz Collector. Flexible Condenser system for Brightfield, Phase Contrast, Modulation Contrast, Dark Field Contrast, Polarization Contrast or Differential Interference Contrast, every condenser disc with 6 positions for prisms, stops or slits.

Field of View : 22 mm
Coarse and Fine focus with an accuracy of 0,05  for the DM IRBE.
Magnification Changer, Drawing Device orDiscussion Tube possible with every stand.
Camera ports: Side port, Front port, Tube Port and Bottom port possible.
Flexible stage system with fixed stages plus xy-object guide, rotatable stages, 3-plate stages or Scanning stages with several inserts to be heated or not.
Contact VayTek for more information.

LUDL ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS LTD

FILTER WHEEL FOR FURA-2: HIGH-SPEED FILTER WHEEL WITH FAST SHUTTER SPEED
The LEP Filter Wheel is designed to be used with light microscopes and mounts between the lamp housing and microscope or between the microscope and detector. It accepts six 1-inch diameter filters with a maximum thickness of 3/8 inch. It is adaptable to different makes of microscopes (Zeiss, Leitz, etc.) The housing is machined out of aluminum, and the assembly is only 1-1/8 inch thick, thereby creating a minimum change in the illumination light path. The unique advantage of this filter wheel is the ease of filter interchange due to its hinged construction. A high-speed shutter with an opening of 1-inch diameter is standard with this unit.

The filter wheel assembly comes with a 15-conductor cable which connects it to the control card from the MAC 2000 Motion Controller.

There are three ways to connect the filter wheel controller to a computer:

• RS 232 Computer Interface
• GPIB 488 Computer Interface
• Parallel Mode (TTL compatible)

Multiple module sets are combined and in many places replaced by a single module which makes the MAC 2002 more practical. All modules have been designed for improved performance. For example, a new DC servo motor controller and drive module is available which opens the door to high-speed, high-performance XY positioning.

There are two new filter wheel modules: one for stepper and a second for DC wheels. Both offer faster change times and advanced interface features for automatic synchronization of video and other acquisition devices.

The MAC 2002 RS 232 interface and command structure is fully compatible with the MAC 2000, eliminating the need for additional software development. Additionally, it provides easier upgradeability and greater configuration flexibility.

Configured System Parts Available:

• 7 inch Base System
• 19 inch Base System, XYZ Stage
• 19 inch Base System, XYZ Robot
• XY Stage Controller in 7 inch frame (stepper motors)
• XY Stage Controller in 7 inch frame (DC servo control)
• XY Stage Controller in 19 inch frame (DC)
• R92, R97 Robot Controller in 19 inch frame
• R92, R97 Robot and XY Stage Controller in 19 inch frame
• Video Autofocus for Microscope in 7 inch frame
• Z-Axis Control for Microscope in 7 inch frame
• Filter Wheel/Shutter Controller in 7 inch frame
• Filter Wheel/Shutter Controller in 7 inch frame (DC)

Isolation Performance Horizontal Natural Frequency

Isolation Performance Vertical Natural Frequency

For pricing and for vibration control solutions that meet your lab's needs, contact VayTek.

Customer Comments: We used the Stable Table throughout our 8-day 2000 course in Biological Atomic Force Microscopy at Johns Hopkins. We used it with two different Atomic Force Microscopes: a Digital Instruments Multimode and a Digital Instruments Bioscope. The Stable Table definitely helped reduce vibration noise in both cases. For the Multimode, it helped some, but not as much as we would have liked. It seemed to work much better with the Bioscope. One of our instructors, Dr. Kevin Costa, uses a Stable Table for his work, which is primarily cellular imaging and mechanics with a DI Bioscope. The bearings were too stiff for the Multimode, because it is a fairly light instrument. [Note from VayTek: Bearings may be adjusted for the weight of the instrument.] The Bioscope, however, is mounted on an inverted optical microscope, and the whole setup ends up weighing more than 50 pounds. We ended up adding weight (dumbells, actually) to the Stable Table when using it with the Multimode. We added enough weight so that the table was floating freely. The vibration isolation system we use is quite simple, but seems to provide by far the best results: a 400 pound marble block suspended from an I-beam in the ceiling by bungee cords. In our experience, this system works better than any other vibration isolation system, including active piezoelectric systems. Of course, its not exactly portable. One of the things we liked about the Stable Table was its small size and portability. It was quite easy to move it around from lab to lab and to different instruments, and didn't take up much space. -- Alex Hodges, Johns Hopkins, ahodges@bs.jhmi.edu

FILTERS

Choosing Filter Sets to Maximize a Microscope's Capabilities
There are three components to a filter set for fluorescence microscopy: a dichroic mirror, an emission filter and an exciter filter. The parts are held in either a filter cube or a filter wheel, or a linear filter "slider" so that they can be inserted into a microscope, or changed easily. Before choosing a filter set, consider the following parameters:

• Single or Multicolor Label: The researcher must decide if samples will be labeled with one fluorescently tagged target, or if there will be multiple targets and markers. Bandpass filters pass wavelengths in a certain range (passband) and absorb or reflect those outside the range. Researchers normally choose bandpass filters 20 to 35 nm wide, but a passband that is much wider (70nm) or much narrower (10nm) may be needed. A "long-pass" version of such a filter passes all wavelenths at or longer than a specific wavelength. Excitation filters are usually bandpass filters. Emission filters may be bandpass or long-pass filters. If you have only one target in your sample, choosing a filter set is easier. Long-pass filters maximize the signal passing to the detector, helping to reduce photobleaching, so these filters may be a good choice for single labeling research. More than one target in a sample complicates the choice of filters. Long-pass filters allow bleedthrough and have brighter backgrounds. For multiple labeling, you may choose a bandpass filter set, but be aware of the longer exposure times typical with bandpass filters. Images can be acquired with a series of individual bandpass filters, seeing only one color at a time. Multiband filter sets allow researchers to image all colors at the same time. It's also possible to combine techniques, using an excitation filter and imaging through a multiband dichroic mirror and emission filter. Viewing colors one at a time is the simplest, but requires multiple exposures. This can be turned into an advantage by choosing the detector (color or black/white, for example) that best suits each label. To see all the colors at once with this method requires using a computer and appropriate software. Changing filters and other imaging parameters can result in tiny shifts in registration, a problem that can be corrected with some imaging software packages. Multiband filters let the human eye or color CCD camera see all the colors in a sample at once, but in some cases the different labels may not all be in focus, and it is more difficult to keep one color from overwhelming other colors. Dim fluorescence may be masked completely. In the never-ending search for better images, researchers have teamed with hardware and software manufacturers to come up with filter wheels or sliders that a computer can change. The computer changes the excitation filer, but leaves the multiband dichroic mirror and emissiojn filter the same. Researchers must consider the cost of purchasing filter wheels or sliders and the software.
• Light Source: epifluorescence microscopy usually involves a mercury or xenon arc lamp, note the lamp type and wattage. General fluorescence microscopes come with a mercury arc lamp marked "Hg" or "HBO", with wattage of 50 or 100 watts. In some microscopes, the type of lamp can be easily switched, in others this is a more difficult procedure.
• Maximize the Light Source: Exploit the characteristics of the light source to enhance the image. Mercury arc lamps have an output that contains energy peaks at wavelengths the researcher can use to reduce photobleaching. An example: choosing an exitation filter that takes advantage of the 546nm spike in the mercury power spectrum, which results in the maximum signal when using rhodamine or CY3 markers. Xenon arc lamps and usually marked "Xe" and "SBO", with wattage of 75 or 150 watts. The power curve does not have sipikes like a mercury arc lamp, but is flat through visible light spectrum. However, Xenon power output increase at 750nm and remains strong to 1000nm--a good light source for ratio imaging or imaging in the far red. Confocal microscopes use lasers for illlumination, usually argon-ion or krypton-argon, but some may use helium-neon. A laser line excitation filter may enhance imaging characteristics. Doing without an excitation filter can be the best decision for some monochromatic sources as the narrowband filters used to isolate laser lines reduce laser transmission.
• Detection Method: CCD cameras are sensitive to wavelengths of light farther into the red of the spectrum than the human eye sees, so filters must be chosen accordingly. What looks good to the eye may be overly saturated to the camera. An infrared blocking filter in front of the camera may be necessary.
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Very bright samples against a very dark background have a high signal-to-noise ratio and may require a neutral density filter to dim the image so that it can be seen by the human eye. Imaging very dim specimens with low signal-to-noise ratios mandates a darker background and wider bandpass filter set.
• Omega Filters: For more information, including graphs comparing filters, see http://www.omegafilters.com/

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