Stereo microscopes, or dissecting microscopes, are very popular among hobbyists and medical students. While they are incredibly powerful, many people are completely unfamiliar with how to use them. The uses and benefits of the microscopes, types of stereo microscopes, basic maintenance and troubleshooting, and safety precautions are all discussed in this article.
Stereo Microscope: Definition
A stereo microscope is a type of optical microscope with two separate optical paths for each eye, allowing the viewer to see a three-dimensional image of the specimen. Unlike a compound microscope, which uses a single objective lens to magnify the specimen, a stereo microscope uses two separate objectives, each with its eyepiece. This design gives the viewer a more immersive experience, as if they were looking at the specimen with their own eyes instead of through a lens.
Parts of Stereo Microscope
A typical stereo microscope has four main parts: the base, the head, the eyepieces, and the objectives. The base is the foundation of the microscope and provides stability while in use. The head is where the eyepieces and objectives are mounted. The eyepieces are the lenses that magnify the image for the viewer. Eyepieces (A) come in various magnifying powers, typically from 1x to 10x. Using creates quite a different experience.
The objectives are the lenses that collect light from the specimen and focus it into the eyepieces. They feature a powerful objective lens (D). You can adjust the lens focusing using small sliders that are moved by using your fingers. The objective lens is the front portion of the lens that gathers light and focuses it onto the front of the camera, which projects the image onto film or digital sensor. The objective can be lowered several inches and raised several inches using the focus control, allowing you to easily manipulate an object of interest without obstructing the objective lens.
Many of them have a zoom control that adjusts the distance between the two lenses in the head to increase the magnification beyond the objectives and eyepieces. This allows you to fine-tune the magnification level without changing objectives or eyepieces. Using a zoom control is also helpful when working with a specimen that is not perfectly flat, as it allows you to keep the image in focus over a greater range of depths.
Stereo microscopes use reflected light to reflect the image. A traditional stereo microscope generally has one objective and two sets of eyepieces. The objective collects light, which travels into the eyepiece via the light path. In a traditional microscope, the light path is a series of mirrors that direct the light into the eyepiece.
This reflective light source may be an incandescent bulb, a fluorescent tube, or a light-emitting diode (LED). The light source is usually placed below the stage, and its light is directed upwards through a hole in the stage. Imaging an object using a mirror or reflective sheet is useful when the object of interest is too bulky to be imaged by transmitted light. It is a combination of reflected and transmitted light that allows for imaging.
Some offer a digital display in addition to the eyepieces. This is a great feature as it allows you to capture images or videos of your specimen without having to use a camera. Many of these microscopes come with software that allows you to edit and store your images and videos on your computer.
The most important rule when working with a stereo microscope is to keep your hands and the stage steady. Most microscopes have a built-in mechanical stage that allows you to move the specimen around without touching it. You can use special tweezers to handle delicate specimens if your microscope does not have a mechanical stage.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Stereo Microscopes In Biomedical Research?
Stereo microscopes are used for a variety of tasks in the biological sciences. They are commonly used for dissections, as their three-dimensional image makes it easier to see and work with delicate structures. They is also popular for viewing live specimens, as they do not damage the specimen as compound microscopes can. Many people also use stereo microscopes for photomicrography, providing a more natural image than compound microscopes.
Studying micro insects, plant tissues, and cells are other common uses. Examining flowers and plants is another popular use for stereo microscopes, as their three-dimensional image allows a better appreciation of the specimen. Soldering electrodes onto cells is another common use for stereo microscopes in biology, as they provide a steady hand and clear image necessary for this delicate task.