Inverted fluorescence digital photomicroscope

The Department has a Nikon TE 2000E inverted fluorescence microscope for viewing cells in culture. This microscope is compatible for all advanced live cell applications. The TE2000-E model incorporates a high precision motorized-focus and vibration-free optical path changeover mechanism that facilitates image capture in 3D. The E model has five ports including a right-side port. The TE2000’s extendible design allows the distance between the objective and tube lenses to be extended up to 80mm (max.). This feature enables the researcher to add optional attachments without modifying the microscope. For example, by using optional stage risers you can add a laser light source, without affecting the performance or stability for standard epi-fluorescence or DIC techniques. The new Noise Terminator technology directs deviated stray light out of the objective light collection path. This results in images of high contrast and unparalleled S/N ratio during fluorescence observation using advanced techniques such as evanescence wave microscopy (TIRF) increasing the contrast and extending the detection level limit.

To achieve stability that supports greater precision, Nikon implemented CAE analysis and adopted a new high-strength alloy material. The use of the M-45 alloy in the microscope base doubled the rigidity compared with previous models. Moreover, Nikon produced a main body structure in which minor ambient temperature fluctuations do not adversely affect the image to be captured.

The TE2000 also has user-friendly ergonomic design:

• Frequently used buttons and controls are all located at the front and within easy reach.
• The nosepiece is inclined to the left, making it easy to read the magnification and adjust the correction ring.
• The low-profile stage facilitates handling of specimens.
• The 25°-inclination eyepiece tube minimizes fatigue during long hours of observation, while its Y-shaped design permits easy viewing of the specimen area on the stage.
• An ergonomic tilting eyepiece tube is optionally available. Furnished with a built-in Bertrand lens, the inclination angle is adjustable from 15° to 45° for viewing in a relaxed and comfortable posture.

Attached to the microscope is a high resolution Spot RT Slider digital camera. The CoolSNAP fx camera is a fast, high-resolution digital camera system designed for low-light scientific applications. This cooled CCD camera system provides 12-bit digitization at 20 MHz. The fine pitch of the pixels, 6.7 x 6.7 microns, is ideally matched to the resolution of optical microscopes. Megapixel resolution and small pixels allow imaging of very fine detail, yet the pixels can be easily binned to improve sensitivity. Interline CCD technology provides high quantum efficiency in the blue/green.

This microphotographic system is controlled by Universal Imaging Metamorph/Metafluor software.