Re: Any microscope experts here?

Jeff R. wrote:
"Christopher Tidy" <cdt22NOSPAM@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message news:479904AE.1040803@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Hi folks,

I'm thinking about buying a microscope.


Not an expert, but have spent many hours hunched over them peering at microstructures, trying to make sense of what I see. ("Is that Martensite, or just lots of scratches?")

I can't intelligently comment on your specific queries re the Watson gear, but am happy to relate some experiences.

I've always used, with mixed, (but usually reasonable) success, a variety of inexpensive reflected light microscopes and would like to share some nice features.

* light source must be variable, preferably continuously, else it will always be too bright or too dark.

* focus mechanism tightness must be adjustable (or tight enough) to avoid creep under gravity. I had one 'scope which would allow the objective lens to gradually settle down onto the specimen (!). I forget if it was an easy adjust.

* facility to accept polarising filters. Can help.

* I've only ever used mono 'scopes, but binocular would be nice - trinocular even nicer if you are planning photography. Mono will do, 'though. ($$$)

* a nice micrometer-adjustable (smooth and backlash-free) X/Y platform on the stage makes viewing much more comfortable. (Do all 'scopes have this nowadays?)

If buying secondhand, look for all the obvious things (smoothness of focus etc) and don't forget to look for fungus in the optics.

Thanks very much for all that useful advice, Jeff.

Most of the ones I've used have been no-named beasts made (I think) in Czechoslovakia, mingled with a few Olympus (nice) ones. None of them were hideously expensive, and a good one will last forever, treated properly. Lash out and spend more than you want to. You won't regret it, and neither will your heirs.

I'm on a budget, but as a philosophy I definitely believe in investing in good equipment and tools. You get what you pay for.

Best wishes,

Chris

.

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