1. Introducción
This manual provides essential instructions for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your AmScope DK-DRY100 Dry Darkfield Condenser. This accessory is designed to enhance the capabilities of standard compound microscopes by enabling darkfield illumination, which is particularly useful for observing transparent or unstained specimens.
Please read this manual thoroughly before using the condenser to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the product.
2. Producto terminadoview
The AmScope DK-DRY100 is a dry darkfield condenser specifically engineered for compatibility with industry-standard compound microscopes. It features a 37mm mounting diameter and an NA (Numerical Aperture) range of 0.7-0.9, facilitating effective darkfield observation.
Darkfield microscopy illuminates specimens from the sides, causing only scattered light from the specimen to enter the objective lens. This results in a bright specimen appearing against a dark background, improving contrast for otherwise difficult-to-see structures.
Figura 1: De arriba hacia abajo view of the AmScope DK-DRY100 Dry Darkfield Condenser, showing the optical element and NA markings.
Figura 2: Angulado view of the AmScope DK-DRY100 Dry Darkfield Condenser, highlighting the adjustment screws for centering.
3. Configuración
- Prepare the Microscope: Ensure your compound microscope is turned off and disconnected from its power source. Remove any existing condenser from the microscope's condenser holder.
- Insert the Condenser: Carefully slide the AmScope DK-DRY100 Dry Darkfield Condenser into the microscope's condenser holder. The condenser has a standard 37mm mounting diameter.
- Secure the Condenser: Tighten the set screw(s) on the microscope's condenser holder to secure the darkfield condenser in place. Do not overtighten.
- Adjust Condenser Height: Raise the condenser to its highest position using the condenser focus knob on your microscope.
- Centering the Condenser:
- Place a specimen slide on the stage and focus on it using a low power objective (e.g., 10x).
- Close the field diaphragm on your microscope until its image is visible in the field of view.
- Use the two centering screws on the darkfield condenser (visible in Figure 2) to move the image of the field diaphragm to the center of the field of view.
- Open the field diaphragm until its image is just outside the field of view.
4. Instrucciones de funcionamiento
To achieve optimal darkfield illumination, follow these steps:
- Encendido: Connect your microscope to a power source and turn on the illumination.
- Seleccionar objetivo: Begin with a low to medium power objective lens (e.g., 10x or 20x). High NA objectives (typically 40x and above) may require specific darkfield objectives or oil immersion darkfield condensers for best results, which this dry condenser is not designed for.
- Lugar de la muestra: Position your specimen slide on the mechanical stage.
- Enfocar: Using the coarse and fine focus knobs, bring the specimen into sharp focus.
- Ajustar la iluminación:
- Adjust the light intensity of your microscope's illuminator. Darkfield often requires higher light intensity than brightfield.
- Ensure the condenser is raised to its highest position.
- Observe the field of view. You should see a bright specimen against a dark background. If the background is not completely dark, check the centering of the condenser and ensure no direct light is entering the objective.
- Sintonia FINA: Slight adjustments to the condenser height or light intensity may be necessary to achieve the best darkfield effect for different specimens and objectives.
Nota: Este es un seco darkfield condenser. Do not use immersion oil with this condenser. Using oil will damage the condenser and impair its function.
5. Mantenimiento
- Limpieza de la óptica: Use a soft, lint-free lens cleaning cloth and a small amount of lens cleaning solution specifically designed for optical instruments. Gently wipe the optical surfaces. Avoid touching the optical surfaces with bare hands.
- Eliminación de polvo: Use an air blower to remove dust particles from the condenser surfaces. Do not use canned air, as it may contain propellants that can leave residue.
- Almacenamiento: When not in use, store the condenser in a clean, dry environment, preferably in its original packaging or a protective case, to prevent dust accumulation and damage.
- Cuidado general: Avoid exposing the condenser to extreme temperatures, humidity, or corrosive chemicals. Handle with care to prevent drops or impacts.
6. Solución de problemas
| Problema | Posible causa | Solución |
|---|---|---|
| Campo de view is not completely dark. | Condenser not centered; objective NA too high for dry darkfield; excessive ambient light; condenser not raised high enough. | Re-center the condenser using the centering screws. Ensure the objective's NA is compatible with the dry darkfield condenser (NA 0.7-0.9). Reduce ambient light. Raise the condenser to its highest position. |
| Specimen appears dim or unclear. | Insufficient illumination intensity; condenser not properly focused; dirty optical surfaces. | Increase the microscope's light intensity. Ensure the condenser is at its optimal height. Clean the condenser and objective lenses. |
| Dust or artifacts visible in the field. | Dust on condenser, objective, or eyepiece; dirty specimen slide. | Clean all optical components and the specimen slide. Use an air blower for dust. |
7. Especificaciones
- Modelo: DK-DRY100
- Tipo de condensador: Dry Darkfield
- Tamaño de montaje: 37mm (Industry Standard)
- Numerical Aperture (NA): 0.7-0.9
- Dimensiones del producto: 3.2 x 3.2 x 2.8 pulgadas (aproximadamente)
- Peso del artículo: 4 onzas (aproximadamente)
- Compatibilidad: Standard Compound Microscopes
8. Garantía y soporte
For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service for your AmScope DK-DRY100 Dry Darkfield Condenser, please refer to the official AmScope website or contact AmScope customer service directly. Contact details are typically available on the product packaging or the manufacturer's official websitio.
Conserve su comprobante de compra para reclamos de garantía.
