A Quick Guide to Choosing a Microscope
From an early age, children are fascinated by the hidden world of the microscopic. To investigate creatures difficult to see with the naked eye or to discover that a smooth surface can actually look like a rugged mountain if magnified creates a longing to discover - to find something new. A microscope is the perfect tool to develop a love of discovery.
Many of us were only exposed to hand magnifiers growing up, but now microscopes are readily available and becoming more affordable. Choosing the right microscope for your home or classroom can be tough. There are lots of options available and like a digital camera the features vary from one model to the next. To help, we’ve created a guide that covers the key questions you should consider before purchasing one.
Getting Started
Follow the prompts below to choose the category of microscope you need:
Compound or Stereo Microscope? What is the Difference?
A compound microscope is designed to view very thin slices of items like roots, leaves, kidneys and skin or wet slide samples. These need to be prepared with stains and according to precise techniques in order to be effective. With the compound microscope, the light source is below the item you’re viewing, so the item must be thin enough for the light to shine through it.
The stereo microscope has a light source below and above the object. This allows you to study 3-dimensional or whole objects. With a stereo microscope, you can see the surface of the object you’re studying.
A Closer Look at the Compound Microscope
We’ve highlighted the key parts of a basic compound microscope with information about how each functions.
A |
Eyepiece |
The viewer looks through this. Can be removed to insert a camera |
B |
Eyepiece sleeve |
Holds eyepiece |
C |
Coarse adjustment knob |
To get slide in focus, on lower magnification |
D |
Fine adjustment knob |
To sharpen focus, especially at higher magnification |
E |
Objective |
Selectable lenses that magnify object |
F |
Stage clips |
Hold slides in place |
G |
Arm |
Keeps objective above platform. Hold this and the base when carrying |
H |
Base |
Keeps microscope stable |
I |
mirror |
Redirects light to the slide. Can be replaced with light source |
J |
Stage and Diaphragm |
Platform to place slide on; Adjusts how much light is directed at slide |
K |
Condenser |
Focuses light on part of slide being studied |
L |
Rotating nose piece |
Allows choice of objectives |
M |
Body tube |
Internal sleeve, keeps eyepiece and rotating nose in place |
Got the Basics? Gear up with Great Accessories
Once you’ve chosen your microscope, take the experience up a notch with a range of great accessories.
This is a useful tool for directing the learners’ attention to a particular part of the slide. When you look through the eyepiece, you’ll see a needle pointing to the centre of the viewed area.
Microscope Accessory Kit
The microscope accessory kit is great for getting started with slide preparation as well as dissections. The kit comes with a handy guide. This Kit can be purchased INCLUDING/EXCLUDING the Microscope.
TO NOTE: The complete kit consists of two parts: apparatus and chemicals. The apparatus and chemicals are priced, sold and delivered separately due to precautions taken with some chemicals being hazardous. If purchasing, please ADD BOTH items to your cart in order to receive the full kit.
Microscope Kit - APPARATUS ONLY: SHOP HERE
Microscope Kit - CHEMICALS ONLY: SHOP HERE
Eyepiece with Reticule
This allows you to accurately make measurements of objects under magnification.
Microscope Camera
The microscope camera allows you to connect the microscope view to your pc screen or classroom projector. You can also keep a record of what was viewed to show the class at a later stage. It can be used to record still images or video.
Set of Prepared Slides
Instead of preparing your own slides, you can get a selection of prepared zoology or botany slides to show your class.
Microscopes provide endless enjoyment for learners within the classroom or home environment. They’re a fantastic tool for bringing learning to life. Browse our selection of microscopes to find the option that’s right for your classroom. If you have any questions please get in touch with one of our sales specialists who will talk you through all the options.
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