Feb 4 2008
National Microscope introduces a new series of affordable clinical compound microscopes. The VanGuard 1300 series models have features often available only on research-grade microscopes, such as infinity-corrected optics. The advanced features, ergonomic design, and cost-effective price of the microscopes will benefit scientists in laboratories, industrial facilities, clinics, and universities.
The 1300 series microscopes have focusing controls that are low on the base, which alleviates wrist strain. "Microscope ergonomics is important today to help relieve wrist and arm strain. The goal is to make quality microscopes we'd enjoy using," according to National Microscope Exchange President Rowland Brasch. To further increase the comfort and efficiency of the new models, VanGuard added high-eyepoint, super-widefield eyepieces and soft eyecups. High-eyepoint eyepieces save users who wear eyeglasses from having to remove them when viewing a specimen. Those with perfect vision and those who wear glasses can expect a clear image.
The new microscopes support Koehler illumination, a process that promotes uniform brightness and eliminates glare. In addition, the 1300 series has an infinity optical system, a feature traditionally limited to high-end research microscopes. Infinity-corrected models are available on all models with plan achromatic objectives and start below one thousand U.S. dollars.
Lab professionals can choose from nine different models in the 1300 series, depending on application needs. Brightfield models use the most common illumination technique while phase contrast models use special lighting configurations to induce contrast without staining, especially useful in wine making, biological applications, and asbestos testing. To add more versatility, VanGuard added a brightfield and darkfield stop on the phase contrast models.
"VanGuard microscopes are as easy to buy as they are to use," remarked Brasch, "The VanGuards were designed as complete systems so users don't have to fuss around with an endless list of parts essential to using the microscopes." Additional extended options are available, such as digital camera packages and eyepiece reticles. For the 1300 series trinocular models VanGuard currently offers a digital camera package with microscopy software that supports live streaming video and still image capture on-screen.