Adjusting the condenser

[Jmoore]

Why do i see the lightbulb filament when i move the condenser up where it should be? I can unscrew and remove its lens but i dont know if thats the best thing to do. Working with a 1970s Swift SRBL binocular compound scope.

[75RR]

It is most likely that you have Critical illumination, in which case the bulb filament is on the same plane as the sample.
You need either a diffuser (frosted filter) or a frosted bulb, perhaps even both. See illustration.

[Jmoore]

I see the difference. Thanks for the reply. I need me a good book about this stuff. Just got my scope last week. Trying not to ruin it before i figure it out.

[75RR]

I need me a good book about this stuff.

There you go.

http://www.biology.uoc.gr/courses/BIOL4 ... s/book.pdf

[lorez]

That microscope was equipped with a 1/2 silvered - frosted bulb. If I dig a bit I may be able to find one, or at least a part number. I'm not sure they are still made.

[Jmoore]

Wow! You guys dont mess around when someone asks a question. Thanks for your input!