Microscopes & Profile Projectors

About Microscopes & Profile Projectors

Take a closer look at our selection of specialist microscopes or zoom in on our array of accessories.

• Compound Microscopes - view small samples that are unidentifiable to the naked eye
• Metallurgical Microscopes - can be used in virtually any industry or field of study
• Polarising Microscopes - a quick and convenient method for the identification of salts
• Stereomicroscopes - for a closer examination of three-dimensional specimens
• Profile Projectors - accurate measurements are achieved as a result of a telecentric optical system
• Comparators & Magnifiers - view your specimen a little easier
• Microscope Accessories - maintain or upgrade your equipment

Popular Products

• Kern OBT-1 Transmitted Light Compound Microscope: These high-quality school microscopes feature an infinitely dimmable 1W LED for optimal illumination. Six models are available equipped with fixed or mechanical stages and coarse and fine-focusing knobs. The microscopes have condenser lenses that ensure the best concentration of light and illumination. They are battery-operated for mobile use and supplied with a dust cover for storage.

• Kern OLM 170 Metallurgical Microscope (Inverse): The Kern OLM 170 has an adjustable 5 W LED illumination unit with a trinocular eyepiece tube. Other features include an infinity optical system, a 4-fold lens revolving unit, and a pre-installed C-Mount Adapter.

• Kern OPO Reflecting/Transmitting Polarising Binocular Microscope: This polarising microscope has a dual lighting system with reflective and transmitting light sources. It also includes five non-stress Infinity Plan objectives with magnification at 4x, 10x, 20x, 40x, and 60x, with binocular eyepieces, an λ slip, a Bertrand lens, and a quartz wedge.

• Kern OZL 463 Stereo Zoom Microscope - Binocular: This binocular stereo zoom microscope features a removable head that can rotate 360 degrees. The OZL 463 has a continuous magnification of 7x to 45x and LED illumination. The microscope is flexible, accurate, and versatile but extremely practical, with its large working surface.

• Mitutoyo Series 303 PJ-H30 Profile Projectors: The PJ-H30 profile projectors have a high measuring accuracy and an easy-to-read digital counter with a large digit display. The optical contour illumination system improves the light intensity of a projected subject. The constant current power supply unit with acceleration control minimises the service life of the halogen lamp.

• Mitutoyo Series 183 Interchangeable Reticle Magnifier: These interchangeable reticle magnifiers are available with a magnification of 8x or 10x. They have small dimensions and angles, including radii and screw-thread form, and can be checked easily at low resolution.

• Accessories: We have over 100 accessories ranging from a Kern 281-151-001 Spring Balance Hook to a Mitutoyo 378-891-6 LCD Plan Apo NUV HR Objective, including a Mitutoyo 172-132 Vertical Holder and a Kern OBB-A1466 Blue Filter.

FAQs

Microscopes

• What is the ease of use and setup process of a microscope?
  Position it on a stable surface with good lighting and prepare the slide with the specimen. Select an objective lens and centre the slide underneath, using the coarse and fine focus knobs to bring the specimen into view. Adjust the eyepieces and light intensity to improve visibility, and switch to higher magnifications as required.

• What are the software capabilities?
  The software provides various embellishments, including live imaging and still image capture, with enhancement features like filters and colour correction. Perform measurements, automate analyses, and generate statistical data from images. Annotation tools allow adding text and shapes, while report generation compiles visual data and results. Advanced features include 3D imaging, integration with laboratory information management systems, and remote access for collaboration.

• What magnification do I need?
  The required magnification depends on the specimens you plan to observe.

  • Biological samples
    • Low magnification (40x - 100x) - larger organisms
    • Medium magnification (200x - 400x) - cells and tissues
    • High magnification (600x - 1000x) - detailed views of small structures
  • Materials science
    • Low magnification (10x - 100x) - surface features
    • Medium magnification (100x - 500x) - microstructure analysis
    • High magnification (500x - 2000x) - examine material properties

  Low to medium magnification (40x - 400x) is generally sufficient for educational use.

• What is the difference between low-powered and high-powered microscopes?
  Low-powered microscopes are ideal for viewing larger objects because they have a larger field of view, a longer working distance, and a greater depth of field. High-powered microscopes provide detailed views of small structures but have a smaller field of view and a shallower field depth, requiring the objective lens to be closer.

• How do I calculate total magnification?
  Multiply the objective lens's magnification by the eyepiece (ocular lens) magnification.

• What is the field of view, and why is it important?
  The field of view (FOV) is the diameter of the area visible through the eyepiece, measured in millimetres or micrometres. A larger FOV provides a greater perspective, while a smaller FOV at higher magnifications provides greater clarity.

• Can I take photos through a microscope?
  A digital camera can be attached using T-rings and adaptors, while some digital microscopes have built-in camera functions. Alternatively, adaptors can also attach to the eyepiece or the microscope body.

• How does the microscope integrate with existing systems?
  Digital cameras that connect via USB or HDMI integrate the microscope. They support software for image processing and data management, and some offer network connectivity for remote access. Advanced models can integrate with automated systems and robotic stages.

Profile Projectors

• What is a profile projector used for?
  Also known as an optical comparator, the projectors magnify and project a profile onto a screen. They evaluate surface profiles and help to maintain quality assurance, achieving manufacturing precision and reliable inspections.

• How accurate are profile projectors?
  They typically offer length accuracy of ±(6 + 0.04L) µm, magnification accuracy of ±0.15% to ±0.25%, and squareness accuracy of ±(4.5 + 0.06L) µm, typically achieving precision levels within ±0.001 to ±0.005 inches (±0.025 to ±0.127 mm). Always consult the manufacturer's documentation for the most accurate and specific information.

• What types of measurements can be taken by a profile projector?
  Profile projectors can measure linear dimensions, angles, diameters, radii, geometric tolerances, thread forms, and profiles.

• Do I need special training?
  While you don't necessarily need extensive training to use a profile projector, some basic training is helpful. Many manufacturers or suppliers offer training sessions or manuals to help users get started.

• What are the key features to look for in a profile projector?
  A few things to look for are a range of magnification options, high-quality lenses, a large and well-marked screen, adjustable illumination, a telecentric optical system, a movable stage, and digital readouts. Consider portability if mobility is integral.

• Can the profile projector handle our specific parts and materials?
  Ensure it accommodates the size and shape of your parts, can adjust for different material properties (like reflective or transparent surfaces), meets your required measurement precision, and has compatible accessories to hold and position your parts.

• What software features do they include?
  They often include software features like digital readouts, automatic edge detection, 2D feature measurement, geometric tolerancing, part program teach-in, comprehensive reporting, and a touchscreen interface.

• How user-friendly is a profile projector?
  Generally, the projectors are user-friendly. Modern models have intuitive controls, digital readouts, and touchscreen interfaces. However, some models may require more manual adjustments. Advanced features and user-friendly software can significantly enhance the user experience.