1. Introduction
The OPTO-EDU A11.1531-B is an entry-level binocular biological microscope designed for laboratory and educational use. It offers excellent value and is equipped with an integrated X-Y mechanical stage and an Abbe N.A. 1.25 condenser. This model features a binocular head, providing comfortable viewing for extended periods. With optional eyepieces, it can achieve up to 2000X optical magnification. The built-in rechargeable batteries allow for cordless operation, enhancing portability and flexibility in various settings.
2. Components and Features
The A11.1531-B microscope consists of several key components, each designed for optimal performance and ease of use.
- Head: The A11.1531-B features a binocular head, inclined at 30° and 360° rotatable for comfortable viewing. The left eyepiece tube has a diopter adjustment of ±5 for individual eye focus correction.
- Eyepiece: Equipped with Wide Field Eyepiece WF10X/18mm. Optional WF16X/13mm and WF20X/11mm eyepieces are available for higher magnification.
- Nosepiece: A quadruple nosepiece with precise click stops allows for easy rotation and selection of objectives.
- Objectives: Includes Achromatic Objectives: 4X, 10X, 40Xs (spring-loaded), and 100Xs (oil immersion, spring-loaded).
- Working Stage: An integrated double-layer mechanical stage (110x125mm) with a moving range of 30x75mm allows for precise specimen positioning.
- Focusing System: Coaxial coarse and fine focusing adjustments provide smooth and accurate focus. The fine division is 0.002mm, and the coarse stroke is 36mm. It includes an adjustable rack stop to prevent damage to specimens and objectives. The coarse adjustment is equipped with friction control.
- Condenser: An Abbe Condenser with N.A. 1.25, featuring an iris diaphragm and filter holder, can be adjusted spirally up and down for optimal illumination.
- Light Source: High brightness 3W LED illumination with adjustable brightness. The microscope can be powered by internal rechargeable batteries or an external 100-240V mains adapter/battery charger.
3. Specifications
Below are the detailed specifications for the OPTO-EDU A11.1531-B Biological Microscope:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model | A11.1531-B |
| Optical System | Finity Optical System |
| Head | Binocular Head, Inclined at 30º, 360º Rotatable, Interpupillary Distance 54~75 mm, Diopter Adjustable ± 5 On Left Tube |
| Eyepiece | Wide Field Eyepiece WF10X/18mm |
| Objective | Achromatic Objectives 4X, 10X, 40Xs, 100Xs (oil) |
| Nosepiece | Quadruple Nosepiece |
| Condenser | Abbe Condenser N.A. 1.25 With Iris Diaphragm And Filter Holder |
| Focusing System | Coaxial Coarse and Fine Adjustments, Fine Division 0.002mm, Coarse Stroke 36mm, Adjustable Rack Stop, Friction Control |
| Stage | Double Layer Mechanical Stage 110X125mm, Moving Range 30X75mm |
| Illumination | 3W LED Brightness Adjustment, Optional: Power By Battery, Optional: Power By Rechargeable Battery With External 100-240V Mains Adapter |
| Material | Metal |
| Certification | CE |
Optional Accessories
| Category | Item | Model Number |
|---|---|---|
| Eyepiece | Wide Field Eyepiece WF16X/13mm | A51.1503-16 |
| Wide Field Eyepiece WF20X/11mm | A51.1503-20 | |
| Objective | Plan Achromatic CF Objectives 4X 10X 40Xs 100Xs (oil) | A52.1510 |
| CCD Adapter | 1.0X | A55.1530-10 |
| 0.5X | A55.1530-05 |
4. Setup Instructions
- Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Retain the original packaging for future storage or transport.
- Placement: Place the microscope on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, dust, and vibrations.
- Head Installation: If the head is separate, gently insert it into the top of the microscope body and secure it with the set screw. Ensure it is firmly seated.
- Eyepiece Insertion: Insert the WF10X/18mm eyepieces into the eyepiece tubes of the binocular head.
- Objective Installation: Rotate the revolving nosepiece to expose the empty objective threads. Carefully screw each objective (4X, 10X, 40Xs, 100Xs) into its corresponding thread on the nosepiece, starting with the lowest magnification.
- Power Connection: Connect the power adapter to the microscope and a suitable power outlet (100-240V). Alternatively, ensure the internal rechargeable batteries are charged for cordless operation.
- Stage Adjustment: Ensure the mechanical stage is clean and the stage clips are functional.
- Condenser Adjustment: Verify the Abbe condenser is in place below the stage.
5. Operating Instructions
- Power On: Flip the power switch to turn on the LED illumination. Adjust the brightness using the dimmer control.
- Specimen Placement: Place a prepared slide on the mechanical stage, securing it with the stage clips.
- Initial Focusing (Low Power):
- Rotate the nosepiece to select the 4X objective.
- Using the coarse focus knob, lower the stage until the objective is just above the slide.
- Look through the eyepieces and slowly raise the stage using the coarse focus knob until the specimen comes into view.
- Use the fine focus knob for sharp focus.
- Adjust the interpupillary distance by moving the eyepiece tubes until a single, clear field of view is observed. Adjust the diopter on the left eyepiece for individual eye correction.
- Adjusting Illumination: Adjust the iris diaphragm on the Abbe condenser to control the contrast and resolution. For higher magnifications, the diaphragm generally needs to be opened more.
- Changing Magnification:
- Once focused at 4X, rotate the nosepiece to the next desired objective (e.g., 10X). The microscope is parfocal, so only minor fine focus adjustment should be needed.
- Repeat for 40Xs objective.
- Using 100Xs Oil Immersion Objective:
- After focusing with the 40Xs objective, rotate the nosepiece halfway between 40Xs and 100Xs.
- Place a small drop of immersion oil directly onto the specimen area to be viewed.
- Carefully rotate the 100Xs objective into the oil drop until it clicks into place. The objective should be immersed in the oil.
- Use only the fine focus knob to bring the specimen into sharp focus. Do NOT use the coarse focus knob with the 100Xs objective.
- After use, clean the 100Xs objective and the slide immediately with lens paper and a suitable cleaning solution to remove all oil residue.
- Power Off: Turn off the LED illumination and unplug the microscope if not using battery power.
6. Maintenance
Cleaning
- Optical Parts: Use a soft, clean lens brush to remove dust. For smudges or oil, use lens paper lightly moistened with lens cleaning solution. Wipe gently in a circular motion. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Body: Wipe the microscope body with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid getting moisture into electrical components.
- Oil Immersion Objective: Always clean the 100Xs objective immediately after use to prevent oil from hardening.
Storage
- When not in use, cover the microscope with a dust cover to protect it from dust and debris.
- Store the microscope in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Remove slides from the stage and rotate the lowest power objective (4X) into the viewing position before storing.
Battery Care
- For models with rechargeable batteries, ensure they are fully charged before extended cordless use.
- If storing for a long period, charge the batteries periodically to maintain their lifespan.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No illumination | Power cord unplugged; power switch off; brightness knob set to minimum; battery drained; LED bulb faulty. | Check power connection; turn on switch; increase brightness; charge battery; contact support if LED is faulty. |
| Image is blurry/cannot focus | Objective not clicked into place; coarse/fine focus used incorrectly; slide upside down; dirty optics. | Ensure objective is locked; use coarse focus for initial, fine for precise; check slide orientation; clean eyepieces/objectives. |
| Dark field of view | Iris diaphragm closed; condenser too low; objective not fully engaged. | Open iris diaphragm; raise condenser; rotate objective until it clicks into place. |
| Dust or spots in view | Dust on eyepiece, objective, or slide. | Clean eyepieces, objectives, and slide. Rotate eyepiece to determine if dust is on it. |
| Mechanical stage not moving smoothly | Dirt or debris in mechanism; tension too high. | Clean stage area; adjust tension control on focusing knob. |
8. User Tips
- Always start observation with the lowest magnification objective (4X) to locate and center your specimen.
- When switching to higher magnifications, only use the fine focus knob for adjustments to avoid damaging the slide or objective.
- For optimal image quality, adjust the iris diaphragm on the condenser to control contrast. A good rule of thumb is to close it slightly from fully open.
- Remember to clean the 100X oil immersion objective immediately after use to prevent oil from drying and damaging the lens.
- Utilize the 360° rotatable head for comfortable viewing, especially when sharing the microscope with others.
- Take advantage of the cordless operation feature by ensuring batteries are charged for fieldwork or areas without power outlets.
9. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
The OPTO-EDU A11.1531-B Biological Microscope comes with a 3-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact the seller, LINDA Precision Optical Components Store. They can provide specialized support and guidance for your OPTO-EDU microscope.
