Ten Easy Steps to Using a Compound Light Binocular Microscope

The use of compound light binocular microscopes started almost the same era as the earliest microscopes. It is referred to as compound binocular because it contains two eyepieces adapted to the use of both eyes. The first is the ocular lens and the second one is the objective. In addition, it has its illumination system. It is by far the most popular optic equipment available for microscopy specifically in schools. Most of us do not need the highly complicated ones, which we find too daunting. With a compound binocular microscope, we can get almost everything we need for educational purposes or professional requirements.

Initially, various parts of the equipment should be identified before actually learning on how to use it. Most compound binocular microscopes have eyepiece (ocular lens), body tube, arm, objective (objective lenses), coarse-adjustment knob, fine-adjustment knob, diaphragm control lever, light source, base, stage, and mechanical stage.

Here are simple guidelines to get the most out of your compound light binocular microscope. Read the vital details and follow the instructions listed. You will find out that it is not as complicated as it seems.

1. Set it on a flat surface. Be sure to take hold of its arm securely. It should be lifted and supported underneath the base with your other hand. Please note that there are some microscopes, which require an electric illumination. If you have this kind, plug the power cable into your outlet. Extra cable should be properly arranged so that no one drags it off of your table or falters over it. However, if it just requires natural light, you must use a mirror that you can use to focus on the subject. Remember to use only as much light as you need.


2. Clean the lenses by using lens paper. It is not advisable to use any cloth as it may damage the lens. Breathe on the objectives and the oculars lightly to provide moisture. If the vision is still hazy, you might start asking for help


3. To allow the maximum amount of brightness, turn on your light source or bring on your mirror and adjust its diaphragm control lever to the largest diameter. Iris diaphragm is useful too when you want to have most light come through. This can be done by sliding the lever.


4. In setting up the slide, hold the nosepiece and begin with the stage lowered and the minimum power objective, which is 4X based on 40X amount of magnification. It will be easier for you to examine a slide this way. It also allows you to have a wider view field when you are at your minimum power. Power lens, which are set low, gives the broadest view field. Finding the specimen will be easier for you as you look through the microscope. Never elevate the stage using the coarse focus throughout focusing as the objective may collide with the slide, which can break both.


5. Put the slide of the microscope on the stage. You can do this either by placing underneath the stage clips. You can also do this by clipping it to the mechanical (automatic) stage. Slides should be prepared as it works best. If an organized slide is not available, a strand of tinted yarn on the blank slide will do the trick. You can also use a thread as an alternative. Put a coverslip on top of it. Then, slowly reposition the slide. Make it a point that the specimen is underneath the objective lens. Never drop the cover slip directly down on the slide as you will end up with bubbles trapped underneath the cover slip.


6. Get the specimen in focus by adjusting the larger coarse focus knob. Then start moving the slide to place the specimen in the center and underneath the lens itself. Nudge it gently by your fingers. If there is a mechanical stage, turn the slide knobs.


7. For a clearer focus, regulate the small fine focus knob. Also, you must regulate the diaphragm so that you can get the best illumination. Start this by having the highest amount of light. Gradually, lessen the illumination until the image of the specimen becomes clear and definitely sharp in contrast. This may take more than a few tries before you can achieve what you need.


8. In getting an overview of the specimen, begin scanning the slide from right to the left and from top to the bottom using low power. Then determine your target view of the specimen to be able to view that part using higher power. Be sure to use only the fine focus with higher power objectives. Make minor changes in focus when necessary by using the fine focus knob. Return to a lower power objective if you totally lose focus.


9. It is practical to turn around the nosepiece to 10X magnification to refocus and examine the specimen thoroughly. You can adjust the illumination again and again until you can achieve the clearest image, but keep in mind that you will be needing additional light for much higher powers. Repeat the process with a 40X based on 400X amount of magnification. This enables you to see every details of the chosen specimen. But above all, high power is often not needed as most of the samples being studied with a microscope require only low power to look better. It is said that even meticulous scientists use low powers for most of their work. It is also wise to use sufficient magnification as considered necessary.


10. What if your compound binocular microscope has oil immersion lens? One to two drops of this oil will be needed. Put it above the slide cover slip before attempting to view your specimen at the maximum power.
    
    In carrying the microscope, use proper carrying technique and always see to it that the cord is neatly wrapped around the base; not bent back or twisted. You must be very careful in handling it as microscopes easily break when dropped.
    
    Selecting the right model basing on brand, price, magnification, size of objective lens, and other features such as resolution, image capture capabilities, and tripod adaptability is as important as mastering the fundamentals of using the microscope. By learning much o fits usage, you can develop your microscopic studies. It takes much time and effort, but it is certainly worth everything.

In carrying the microscope, use proper carrying technique and always see to it that the cord is neatly wrapped around the base; not bent back or twisted. You must be very careful in handling it as microscopes easily break when dropped.

Selecting the right model basing on brand, price, magnification, size of objective lens, and other features such as resolution, image capture capabilities, and tripod adaptability is as important as mastering the fundamentals of using the microscope. By learning much o fits usage, you can develop your microscopic studies. It takes much time and effort, but it is certainly worth everything.