9
PHASE CONTRAST
– MP MODELS ONLY
The phase contrast microscope reveals fine detail in transparent
objects which possess very little contrast. Unstained living
organisms and cells can be studied without danger of artifacts
produced by killing, fixing or staining reagents. Before the advent
of phase contrast such specimens could only be examined in
transmitted light by closing down the sub-stage condenser
diaphragm to a small aperture. The narrow cone of illumination
produced diffraction with destruction of detail. The M10 can be
outfitted with a multi-phase system (MA10050) that includes a set
of Plan Phase objectives and a special phase condenser
carousel. Please refer to the detailed instruction sheet enclosed
with each phase kit for proper use.
Bright Field
is defined as: “
a type of light microscopy that
produces a dark image against a brighter background; commonly
used for the visualization of stained cells.”
To start, you will need
to make sure the condenser is in the highest position. Use of the
iris diaphragm is highly recommended to aid in adding contrast.
Rotate the condenser disk to the
BF
designation.
4x, 10x, 40x Objectives
: Adjust focus and iris as normal.
100x Objective
: Adjust and focus as normal. It is highly
recommended that immersion oil be used on the surface of the slide
Dark Field
is defined as “
an illumination technique that makes the
specimen appear luminous against a background of little or no
light.”
This discipline requires a strong and wide arc of transmitted
light. Swift microscopes fitted for phase condensers have high-
output halogen or LED illumination, but their characteristic arcs of
light may require some experimentation to achieve the desired
effect. The iris must be wide open to achieve this effect and the
condenser must be in the highest position. Only the 4x, 10x, 20x
(optional) and 40x produce Dark Field. Rotate the disc to the
DF
designation.
4x, 10x, 40x Objectives
: Adjust and focus as normal. Iris must
be fully opened.
