Olympus unveiled its new IX81-ZDC2 Zero Drift microscope system, which is an inverted, motorized microscope featuring an integrated autofocus solution.
This microscope will be useful for investigators working on time-lapse experiments. The autofocus system of the microscope operates constantly to sustain focus even during short-time experiments and quick-happening events. The microscope can be operated in one-shot mode to support applications that need multiple focus points to be maintained.
IX81-ZDC2 microscope
The new inverted microscope system utilizes a Class 1 785nm laser diode for locating air/glass interface (non-immersion lenses), or water/glass interface (for immersion objectives). The Zero Drift system works in combination with MetaMorph and targets the desired depth in sample by using an intermediate lens. The system has the ability to maintain the focus on the position for a long period.
The Zero Drift system offers reliable locating of the specimen-coverslip interface. Then it can return to the focus position accurately, even if the distance between objective and coverslip is changed. The system also uses an autofocus routine that is considerably faster than software-based algorithms. Further, the autofocus routine is not affected by any change in the cell’s contrast, morphology, or fluorescence intensity. The ZDC2 Zero Drift system can be used in different objectives such as the Olympus TIRF UAPON 100x 1.49 NA, and APON 60x 1.49 NA high-transmission lenses.
The autofocus system of the microscope has been integrated into the company’s IX81 microscope stand that is renowned for its trustworthiness and stability. The research objectives of Olympus have a chromatic correction range between 330 and1100 nm. There is minimal stress on the microscope, as the objectives are compact and lighter.