Stereo microscopes promise distortion-free images

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team May 12, 2006

Olympus has launched the revolutionary new SZX2 series of stereo microscopes.

Olympus has launched the revolutionary new SZX2 series of stereo microscopes.

The new Olympus SZX2 series offers the highest resolution ever achieved with a stereo microscope.

This, in combination with the largest zoom ratio on the market, enables users to see and capture far more than ever before.

Meeting all materials science needs with different optical systems, the new series consists of the cutting edge SZX16 for detailed research purposes and the SZX10 for advanced inspection requirements.

The Olympus SZX16 research stereo microscope is designed for advanced research and provides all the functions of a top end compound microscope.

With a maximum numerical aperture (NA) of 0.3, producing an unprecedented resolution of 900 line pairs/mm, means that users can truly see the unexpected.

With superior resolution at all magnification levels, the SZX16 enables users to gather more high precision information from their samples than with any other stereo microscope before.

The Olympus SZX16 also provides the largest zoom ratio of any stereo microscope on the market - 16.4:1.

This, combined with the high NA optics, produces the best clarity at whatever magnification is chosen, meaning users really can see more.

Seamless zooming from 3.5x to 230x in one easy motion, combined with the most comprehensive range of enhanced parfocal objectives (0.5x, 1.0x, 1.5x and 2.0x), means the SZX16 can readily go from whole sample overview to fine surface detail and back with no major adjustments.

Further maximising on information collected, the SZX16 offers enhanced 3D vision via an increased stereo effect.

This enables industrial research laboratories to see as much as possible of a 3D structure, including the top and sides simultaneously.

Using optics dedicated to advanced inspection work, the SZX10 provides the flexibility to undertake routine repetitive tasks efficiently, as well as research techniques with clearer and more comfortable accuracy.

With a natural 3D view - the sample appears exactly as it is in all dimensions and colours - the SZX10 is ideal for inspection and quality control purposes.

Precision optics deliver distortion-free images to the edge of the field of view, together with an exceptionally natural colour.

Further developments for inspection purposes include an enhanced depth of field enabling rapid confirmation of sample appearance, and an enhanced working distance allows easy specimen access.

For viewing the 3D image, the advanced Olympus ComfortView eyepieces on the SZX2 stereo microscopes enable a significantly larger range of eye movement, making both short and long term use much more comfortable.

This also makes it easier to form the stereo image, resulting in reduced occurrence of eyestrain.

Olympus microscopes are designed with the user in mind.

As a result, all controls are easy to use and features like ComfortView and the low stage height, greatly reduce sources of stress.

Olympus can even provide an observation tube capable of adjustment between 5 and 45 degrees (to the horizontal), to enable each user to adjust the eyepoint to the most comfortable position for them.

The SZX2 stereo microscope series is also optimised for both eye and camera, enabling accurate documentation and imaging of live digital sample views.

By fitting the SZX2 stereos with a trinocular head and moving the objective the axial imaging pathway optimises images for 2D photography, as well as precision measurements.

Attaching the Olympus DP71 cooled digital camera produces a very flexible imaging station.

This is designed for high resolution documentation (up to 12.5Mpixel), as well as high-speed imaging for live views in both colour and monochrome.

The advanced interface enables excellent colour reproduction and a clear image during fast sample movements without any delay or blur.