The stage is set! The stage of the microscope is
the flat panel that accepts specimens for close examination. The
subjects
being scrutinized are usually mounted on a
rectangular piece of transparent glass, (a slide) that is then secured
to the stage which
is then illuminated from below.
As shown here the electric illumination device is
nearest to the bottom of the scope. The device itself allows for
regulating brightness
by way of a dial on the external power box (not
shown). But that's not all. There is a tiny swiveling lens that
adjusts light intensity
to aid in regulating contrast.
If that weren't enough, the device just below the stage
further regulates the light that's to go through the hole in the stage.
Think
that's enough? Nope. Just in case the user
prefers light from an outside source, included with the scope is a
combination
flat and concave mirror that replaces the electric
unit. But there's ONE MORE option. The microscope kit also comes
with a frosted
glass disc for diffusing the light by eliminating
shadows, AND a deep blue filter is supplied. I'm not sure what that's used
for. My
theory is that the filter converts the reddish
incandescence of the electric illuminator to that which simulates
daylight.
One last thing: Although this microscope has two
eyepieces, stereoscopic viewing isn't possible because only one
corresponding objective lens can be used at a time. However I have purchased a stereo
microscope, and once it's received
I hope to post some 3-D microscopic views.
End of series.
Marshall
