Re: Cameras for eyepiece

Posted by Barbara Foster on
URL: http://confocal-microscopy-list.275.s1.nabble.com/Cameras-for-eyepiece-tp591952p591960.html

Search the CONFOCAL archive at http://listserv.acsu.buffalo.edu/cgi-bin/wa?S1=confocal Hi, Sophie

Actually, there are a number of companies now offering cameras that fit into the eyepiece. However, I would try them before buying, to make sure that the camera can actually handle the low light level of fluorescence imaging. 

I've used a number of these cameras (Ken-a-Visions, and, in the old days, VideoLab) for teaching.  They are great because they are so portable. 

One other issue:  make sure that you check out the frames per second (FPS).  Some of these cameras are much slower at higher res or lower light level.  Also, check out the support system for the camera.  In the case of a small microscope with a larger camera hanging off the binocular, the camera can act as a lever arm, which is highly subject to vibration.  A slow scan coupled with even modest vibration = fuzzy or blurry images.  Companies such as Ken-a-Vision offer "gooseneck" stands which give the camera much more independent support.

Again, my best advice: try it before you buy it.  You may need to generate a provisional purchase order, but it is worth the paperwork.

Good hunting!

Barbara Foster, President

Microscopy/Microscopy Education
7101 Royal Glen Trail, Suite A
McKinney TX 75070
P: (972)924-5310
Skype: fostermme
W: www.MicroscopyEducation.com


MME is now scheduling customized, on-site courses through July 2008.  Call us today for details.




At 02:19 PM 2/19/2008, you wrote:
Search the CONFOCAL archive at
http://listserv.acsu.buffalo.edu/cgi-bin/wa?S1=confocal

Hello:

Does anyone use the Moticam series of cameras on their microscope?  Ken-a-vision
also seems to sell cameras that can be inserted directly into the eyepiece.

These cameras have adapters for the eyepiece, and that would make it easy for
those without a trinocular.  They have different minimum illumination, so the
low lux would probably better for fluorescence imaging.

Thank you,
Sophie
____________________________________________________
Sophie M. K. Brunet, Ph. D.
Research Officer
Optical Spectroscopy, Laser Systems and Applications
Chemistry 112 sessional lecturer
[hidden email]
306-966-1719 (office)   306-966-1702 (fax)
____________________________________________________
Saskatchewan Structural Sciences Centre
University of Saskatchewan
Thorvaldson Bldg.
110 Science Place
Saskatoon, Sk   S7N 5C9
____________________________________________________