Re: Olympus FV1000 vs Nikon A1

Posted by Tim Feinstein-2 on
URL: http://confocal-microscopy-list.275.s1.nabble.com/Olympus-FV1000-vs-Nikon-A1-tp4567055p4581995.html

I would stress the need to do an apples-to-apples comparison.  The A1 has a very sensitive filter-based detection unit, but I have found that the spectral unit has a noticeably lower sensitivity (for other reasons we generally use spectral anyway).  This is not a design flaw, but a limitation inherent in multi-PMT spectral imaging.  It would surprise me as well if the A1 lagged significantly behind other scopes when using identical filters and dichroics.  

cheers, 

Tim

- no commercial interest -

On Feb 16, 2010, at 1:45 PM, Roshma Azeem wrote:

It is quite surprising to see that FV1000 measures 30 to 50% higher sensitivity. Over which system? I have done so many crazy comparisons between A1 and FV1000 with the same set of samples and found that A1’s performance is far better. Even with faint dyes, we could see clear images in A1 that was not possible with FV1000.

There are clear cut differences in the hardware architecture and the features. As mentioned in Tim’s mail, FV1000 has to be compared with the previous sets of confocal systems like 510, C1 and SP2. As Leoncio said, may be Olympus may challenge the market with a new model in near future.

Regarding sensitivity, A1 integrates certain unique features like weak signal sensitivity through dual integration signal processing (DISP) and low incidence 12 degree angle excitation dichroic mirror that enhances 30% more fluorescence efficiency, when compare to conventional 45 degree angle dichroic.

In addition, spectral unmixing sensitivity is a riveting experience with A1si, when we use four or more color dyes even in the close range (like Alexa488 and YFP).

I came across a review on A1 which is very informative that can be downloaded from:

http://www.microscopyu.com/references/pdfs/Light_and_Maverick_Advanced_Biotech_March-36-2008.pdf


Roshma.

- No commercial interest -

On Tue, Feb 16, 2010 at 11:49 PM, Alberto Diaspro <[hidden email]> wrote:

I do agree with Leoncio, too, following my direct experience both with FV1000 and A1.
Alby


Il giorno 16/feb/2010, alle ore 16.32, Vergara, Leoncio A. ha scritto:

> I have used both systems and I agree with the opinion that the A1 is a more advanced machine. Both are good and I have had good experience with the FV1000, but as it was said already, the A1 is a more powerfull machine. If you are intersted on spectral imaging, I think the A1 is the best choice. The FV1000 captures one channel at a time which makes spectral imaging non practical for many applications. The software of the FV1000 is limited in comparison with Nikon elements which is the sofwtare that powers the A1. Elements has very powerfull image analysis features. Also the workflow with elements is better than with the FV1000 software. May be an updated model by Olympus is overdue?
>
> Leoncio
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Confocal Microscopy List [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Tim Feinstein
> Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2010 9:21 AM
> To: [hidden email]
> Subject: Re: Olympus FV1000 vs Nikon A1
>
> Dear Pedro,
>
> In a sense I think that the question is unfair, as the FV1000 feature set should best be compared with its contemporaries such as the Zeiss 510, Nikon C1 and Lieca SP2.  In that class I think it stands up quite well.  The Nikon A1 includes technical upgrades and modularity options (e.g., resonant scanning with 2-photon, 32-channel spectral detection, integrated TIRF and other detection improvements that Roshma mentioned) which place the A1 among the latest generation such as the Zeiss 710 and Leica SP5.  Barring a strong price incentive and assuming you do not have compatibility issues with existing equipment, the A1 seems like a better choice.  Just make sure to ask for the most _stable_ software build rather than the most recent.
>
> That said, you should ideally ask Olympus and Nikon (and others, if possible) for product demos to see which system best matches your personal needs.
>
> This is my personal opinion only; no commercial interest.
>
> All the best,
>
>
> Tim
>
>
> On Feb 14, 2010, at 10:31 AM, Alberto Diaspro wrote:
>
>> In addition to my direct comments, i do agree AD
>>
>> p.s. the tirf section is also better, from my viewpoint Il giorno
>> 14/feb/2010, alle ore 16.16, Roshma Azeem ha scritto:
>>
>>>
>>> Dear Pedro,
>>>
>>> I have used both the machines and satisfied with the performance of both. However, Nikon A1's built quality and performance is far better than Olympus FV 1000. If you are planning to buy a system with spectral detector, then I would like to say that A1si or A1Rsi would stand apart due to 32 channel multi-anode PMT.
>>>
>>> The image quality and sensitivity of A1 is really cool. The continuously variable 1X to 1000X zoom of A1 gives good flexibility. I feel more comfortable with the hexagonal pinhole of A1 that gives better images. Most importantly, the spectral detector has multiple gratings that allows the spectral step size of 2.5nm, 6nm and 10nm.
>>>
>>> I think only the A1 confocal has fiber connected detectors that is separated from scan head. I have never experienced data loss or scan head induced artifacts or thermal noise.
>>>
>>> Want to hear the experiences of other users of these machines.
>>>
>>> Roshma.
>>>
>>> PS: No commercial interest.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> On Sat, Feb 13, 2010 at 10:57 PM, Pedro J Camello <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>> Hi all,
>>>
>>> has anybody in the list performed some real comparison between
>>> Olympus FV1000 and Nikon A1? We´re in the proccess of purchase a
>>> general-use confocal, and any input (either on or off-list) will be very wellcome.
>>>
>>> Thanks
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>> Dr Pedro J Camello
>>> Dpt Physiology
>>> Faculty of Veterinary Sciences
>>> University of Extremadura
>>> 10071 Caceres
>>> Spain
>>> Ph: 927257000 Extension 51321/51290
>>> Fax:[phone]
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ISTITUTO ITALIANO
>> DI TECNOLOGIA
>>
>> Prof. Alberto Diaspro
>> Scientific Head
>> Nanophysics
>> Via Morego, 30 16163 Genova
>> Tel: [phone]
>> Fax [phone]
>> Mobile [phone]
>> www.iit.it
>> [hidden email]






ISTITUTO ITALIANO
DI TECNOLOGIA

Prof. Alberto Diaspro
Scientific Head
Nanophysics
Via Morego, 30 16163 Genova
Tel: [phone]
Fax [phone]
Mobile [phone]
www.iit.it
[hidden email]