Posts of the Category: Theory
These posts have a more theoretical approach to the subject matter. It provides a basic overview of microscope optics.
Digital methods for improving microscopic photographs
Digital photography gives the users many new possibilities in improving photographs taken through the microscope. This post gives an overview of the different image processing functions that can be applied to microscopic images. This post places a focus on what is possible, but does not explain the “how” part. This is something that I plan [...]
Different types of microscopes
How many different types of microscopes are there? More than you probably thought. I tried to research a list of different types, based on the physical principle used to make an image. Of course, one could also classify the microscopes based on their area of application, their cost, their versatility or any other aspect. These [...]
Increasing Contrast using Optical Methods
Many microscopic specimens are either very thin or transparent or lack color. They lack contrast and can not be easily seen in bright microscope light. In many cases it is not possible or desirable to chemically stain the specimens. In this case, optical techniques become necessary to enhance contrast.
Electron Microscopes vs. Optical (Light) microscopes
This post outlines the advantages and disadvantages of electron microscopes in contrast to optical (light) microscopes. Each type of microscope is designed for different areas of applications.
Advantages of Koehler Illumination
Koehler illumination offers a range of advantages over “critical illumination”. Illumination is more uniform, specimen heating is reduced as well as light reflections for photographic work.
The Condenser Aperture Diaphragm
In this post, the function of the condenser aperture diaphragm is explained. The purpose of the condenser is to concentrate the light onto the specimen, its diaphragm regulates resolution, contrast and depth of field.
About the numbers on the Objective
This post explains the meaning of the different engravings on an objective.
Types of Objectives
This article gives you an overview of different types of microscope objectives, but I must note that a particular objective can fall into several categories at the same time. For educational work, parfocal, achromatic, bright field objectives are very common.
