How to use a stereomicroscope
The stereo- or dissecting microscope is an optical microscope variant designed for observation with low magnification (2 – 100x) using incident light illumination (light reflected off the surface of the sample), although it can also be combined with transmitted light in some instruments. It uses two separate optical paths with two objectives and two eyepieces to provide slightly different viewing angles to the left and right eyes. In this way it allows a three-dimensional visualisation of the sample.
Follow these steps to view your samples:
- Place your sample on the base (3) and turn on the LED light (2).
- Look through the eyepieces (4) and move the focus knob (1) until the image comes into focus.
- Adjust the distance between the eyepieces (4) until you can see the sample clearly with both eyes simultaneously (you should see the sample in 3D).
Tips:
Try moving the sample around and re-focus by adjusting the focus knob.
