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USB Digital Microscope: What are the Factors to ConsiderWhen Purchasing a Microscope
Microscope Camera Strategies A microscope is an instrument for viewing. It is mainly used in examining objects which are
too small for the eyes. This apparatus is usually used in scientific fields because most of the
time the objects in these fields are microscopic. This is very common in biology since living
organisms have microscopic biological structures and it is impossible for one to study these
structures without relying on microscopes.
History
The first ever microscope was introduced in the 1500s. In this era, inventors used glasses
from telescopes to view small objects. Galileo also help modernized the microscope by using
convex and a concave lens to view small objects. Meanwhile, Robert Hook and Antonie Van
Leeuwenhoek help popularized the instrument. Because of their scientific study using the
microscope, the instrument became a popular tool in scientific research in their time. After
that, there were many scientists who followed their path and this helped modernized the
instrument further more when manufacturers began modernizing the microscope. Right now,
there are many types of microscopes to choose from and each carry specific purpose.
What to Consider When Buying a Microscope
When planning to purchase a microscope, it is important to consider this instrument as an
investment, after all these things come with a hefty price. When buying, make sure that you
have taken into account your need so as to avoid purchasing the wrong instrument. For
example, if you are to examine leaves, bugs, rocks, and gems, this calls for a basic
microscope. In this scenario the perfect choice will be a stereo microscope. For examining
smaller objects like blood, bacteria, and more, you need a microscope that can magnify
these things a hundred times. In this scenario, the compound microscope is the right
instrument to purchase.
In addition, you should also consider features in these instruments which you will find useful
in your research. For instance, there are microscopes which can be connected to personal
computers via USB. This type of apparatus is helpful especially if you are viewing hundreds
of specimens because you can now store images of your research directly in your PC.
Lastly, make sure that the construction is strong. Although fragile, it must possess certain
degree of durability. Since it is an investment, you can appreciate the instrument further if it is
capable of lasting for a lifetime. However, since wear and tear is usually expected in most
things, it will be nice if the instrument comes with a warranty from the manufacturer
Buying a microscope can be confusing especially to the uninitiated or for first time buyers
which is why it is important to read and study the different aspects of the instrument. When a
person is able to understand the whole equipment and how it functions, that is the time he
will be able to purchase the correct microscope.
Next Page
Below are topics that discuss different aspects and components of the microscope so you will
understand and hopefully make the right choice.
Compound or Stereo
Compound microscopes are used in advanced applications due to the high levels of
magnification it provides. Blood samples, bacteria, and other small object are usually studied
under a compound microscope. These specimens require high powered magnification which
only a compound microscope can provide. A compound microscope can have 3 to 5 lenses.
These lenses can magnify objects up to 100x.
Stereo microscopes are used in viewing leaves, rocks, gems, and insects since these objects
are not really small compared to specimens viewed in compound microscopes. In other
words, a stereo microscope is a basic instrument capable of magnifying objects up to 40x;
the lowest can be 6.5x.
Quality
It is important to take into account the quality of the instrument. This is to avoid spending
huge money on mediocre instruments. Usually German and Japanese brands are the most
sought after because the construction is really excellent but the downside is they are quite
expensive to own. If your budget is limited, there are budget friendly microscopes with
amazing quality too but they may lack features which are basic in high end microscopes.
Apart from the quality of the body, it is also important to consider the optical quality. Objective
lenses and the eye pieces must be reliable so as to view the images properly. An achromatic
lens for example is quite good. These lenses are capable of correcting colors and producing
enhanced images. For more sophisticated application, there are high end lenses called plan
objectives which produce better quality and flatter images.