Most likely, you have already seen a stereoscopic microscope.  This is the type of microscope which is often used by biologists as well as students doing dissections.  Whether you are a biologist or simply a hobbyist, it is practical to learn these six (6) easy steps on how to use a stereoscopic microscope.

Basic Knowledge of Stereoscopic Microscope

Before learning how to use a stereoscopic microscope, it is imperative to have a basic knowledge of what it is.  A stereoscopic microscope, also known as dissecting microscope or low-power microscope, has two eyepieces and two objectives.  It enables the viewer to have an upright and 3-dimensional image, thus, giving depth of perception.

Generally, there are two (2) very popular types of microscope – the compound microscope and the stereoscopic microscope.  The compound microscope employs only one eye for viewing the specimen and gives a flat view of the object whereas the stereoscopic microscope uses two (2) eyes for viewing, thus giving a more concrete view of the specimen.  With the said benefit offered by  a stereoscopic microscope, it is widely-used by hobbyists.

Digital Stereoscopic Microscope

With the technological breakthrough, there is now what we call as a digital stereoscopic microscope.  This is a stereoscopic microscope to which a digital camera is attached, enabling the user to take pictures of the object being viewed.  The microscope camera may also be connected  to the computer via USB port. For more information, please visit http://www.digitalstereoscopicmicroscope.com/.

The use of digital camera as an accessory to the stereoscopic microscope as well as to the other types of microscope has greatly widened the usage base of microscopes.  More and more enthusiasts use the digital stereoscopic microscopes to observe  specimens such as coins, fossils, and gems and to take pictures of these specimens.

Six (6) Easy Steps on How to Use the Stereoscopic Microscope

To be able to gain the proper results in your work or hobby requiring the use of a stereoscopic microscope and to appreciate the beauty that may only be seen through its lenses, you must learn how to properly use it.  Only then can you take pleasure in using your stereoscopic microscope.  Here are the _ easy steps on how to use the stereoscopic microscope:

Step 1.  Know the Parts of the Stereoscopic Microscope.  Before proceeding to the next step, make sure that you know the various parts of your stereoscopic microscope as well as its uses so that you’ll be able to make the necessary adjustments and you’ll get the desired 3-dimensional view of your specimen. These parts include the scopes, the eyepieces, and the objectives.

Step 2.  Ensure That The Scopes Have The Correct Fit.  To get the desired concrete view of the specimen, adjust the scopes gently.  First, adjust the right eye focus and make certain that the specimen is within the view.  Next, adjust the left eye focus for a uniform view.  Eyepieces must likewise be adjusted to see one full image of the specimen when both eyes are used for viewing.

Step 3. Adjust the Light.  Commonly, users of the stereoscopic microscope utilize the built-in fluorescent illumination. In cases wherein additional illumination is needed,  the use of sunlight is usually resorted to.  However, observers must be cautious  in adjusting the lens and objective because sunlight may damage the same.

Step 4.  Use the Desired Objective.  Objectives may be modified, depending on the view that the observer wants to have.  The latter may experiment on whether to use a 4x  or 10x objective, until the needed view is attained.

Step 5.  Use Both Eyes for Viewing.  A person using a stereoscopic microscope must view an object with both eyes opened so as to see the 3-dimensional view thereof.  If only one eye will be used for viewing, a flat image will appear.  Clearly, a person with a problem in one eye may not take pleasure in using this equipment.

Step 6.  Take a Picture of the Specimen.  After getting the 3-dimensional view of your specimen, you may now take a picture of it, with the digital camera of your microscope.  This way, the images will not just remain in your mind.  You can use the images for reference or for the sheer pleasure of viewing them.

Having learned the 6 easy steps on how to use the stereoscopic microscope, you can now use your equipment with ease.  There are a multitude of things to see, explore and discover with the use of your tool.  Whether it will be for your professional undertakings or for your diversion, there is no need to dilly-dally.  Enjoy using your stereoscopic microscope now!