Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the AmScope B690C Professional Infinity Binocular Compound Microscope. This instrument features a high-quality infinity optical system designed to deliver sharp and clear images. It is equipped with a 360-degree rotatable Siedentopf binocular head inclined at 30 degrees, extreme widefield eyepieces, infinity objectives, coaxial coarse and fine focus, a 3D mechanical stage, and Kohler halogen illumination. The reverse-mounted nosepiece provides ample space for comfortable operation. The microscope offers six magnification levels: 40x, 100x, 250x, 400x, 1000x, and 2500x.
Setup
Follow these steps to set up your AmScope B690C microscope:
- Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Inspect for any damage that may have occurred during transit. Ensure all parts listed in the packing list (not provided in this manual, refer to your product packaging) are present.
- Head Installation: Loosen the head locking screw on the top of the microscope body. Gently insert the binocular head into the top port, ensuring it is fully seated. Tighten the locking screw to secure the head.
- Eyepiece Installation: Insert the widefield eyepieces into the eyepiece tubes of the binocular head.
- Objective Installation: Rotate the revolving nosepiece until the lowest power objective (e.g., 4x) is positioned over the stage opening. Carefully screw each objective into the nosepiece in ascending order of magnification.
- Power Connection: Connect the power cord to the microscope's power input and then to a suitable electrical outlet. The microscope is designed for a wideband power supply (85V-230V).

Figure 1: Side view of the AmScope B690C microscope, showing the main body, binocular head, and stage.

Figure 2: Close-up view of the binocular head with eyepieces installed, ready for observation.
Operating Instructions
This section details the steps for operating your microscope to observe specimens.
- Power On: Locate the power switch, usually on the side or back of the microscope body, and turn it to the 'ON' position. The halogen illumination should light up.
- Illumination Adjustment:
- Use the intensity control knob (often a rheostat) to adjust the brightness of the light source.
- Adjust the iris diaphragm lever on the condenser to control the aperture and contrast of the illumination.
- For Kohler illumination, ensure the field diaphragm is adjusted to the field of view and the condenser is focused for optimal contrast and resolution.
- Specimen Placement: Place your prepared specimen slide onto the mechanical stage. Use the stage clips to hold it securely. Use the X-Y stage control knobs to position the area of interest directly under the objective lens.
- Focusing:
- Begin with the lowest power objective (e.g., 4x).
- Use the coarse focus knob to bring the stage up until the specimen is roughly in focus.
- Look through the eyepieces and use the fine focus knob to achieve a sharp image.
- Magnification Change: To increase magnification, rotate the revolving nosepiece to select a higher power objective (e.g., 10x, 40x, 100x). The infinity optical system is parfocal, meaning minimal refocusing should be required when changing objectives. Use the fine focus knob for minor adjustments.
- Interpupillary Distance and Diopter Adjustment:
- Adjust the distance between the two eyepiece tubes to match your interpupillary distance, ensuring a single, circular field of view.
- If one eyepiece has a diopter adjustment ring, focus on the specimen with your dominant eye (non-diopter eyepiece) first, then use the diopter ring to focus with your other eye without touching the main focus knobs.
- Oil Immersion (for 100x objective): For the 100x objective, a drop of immersion oil must be placed directly on the specimen slide. Carefully lower the 100x objective into the oil. After use, clean the objective and slide thoroughly with lens paper and appropriate cleaning solution.

Figure 3: Side view of the microscope, highlighting the power switch and coaxial focus knobs for operation.

Figure 4: Detailed view of the mechanical stage with specimen clips and the objective lenses mounted on the nosepiece.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your microscope.
- Cleaning Optics:
- Use only specialized lens paper and lens cleaning solution for all optical surfaces (eyepieces, objectives, condenser).
- Never touch optical surfaces with bare fingers.
- For oil immersion objectives, clean immediately after use to prevent oil from drying and hardening.
- General Cleaning: Wipe the microscope body with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents.
- Storage: When not in use, cover the microscope with a dust cover to protect it from dust and debris. Store in a dry, stable environment.
- Bulb Replacement: If the halogen bulb burns out, ensure the microscope is unplugged and cool before attempting replacement. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific bulb type and replacement procedure.
- Avoid Liquid Spills: Prevent any liquids from spilling onto the microscope, especially near electrical components or optical parts.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your microscope.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No illumination | Power cord unplugged, power switch off, bulb burnt out, fuse blown. | Check power connection, turn on switch, replace bulb, check fuse. |
| Dim or uneven illumination | Low intensity setting, condenser or iris diaphragm incorrectly adjusted, dirty light path. | Adjust intensity knob, adjust condenser and iris, clean optical components. |
| Image blurry or out of focus | Incorrect focus, objective not fully engaged, dirty objective/eyepiece, specimen upside down. | Use fine focus, rotate nosepiece until objective clicks into place, clean optics, reorient specimen. |
| Dark spots or debris in field of view | Dust on eyepiece, objective, or condenser. | Clean eyepieces, objectives, and condenser. Rotate eyepiece to determine if dust is on it. |
| Mechanical stage not moving smoothly | Accumulated dust or debris, lack of lubrication. | Clean stage area. If lubrication is needed, contact a qualified technician. |
| Loose components upon arrival | Shipping vibration, improper assembly. | Carefully check all screws and connections. If an eyepiece is loose, ensure it is fully seated. Contact seller if components are damaged or cannot be secured. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | B690C |
| Brand | AmScope |
| Optical System | Infinity |
| Head Type | Siedentopf Binocular, 30-degree inclined, 360-degree rotatable |
| Eyepieces | Extreme Widefield |
| Objectives | Infinity Plan Achromatic (e.g., 4x, 10x, 40x, 100x oil) |
| Magnification Range | 40x, 100x, 250x, 400x, 1000x, 2500x |
| Focusing | Coaxial Coarse & Fine Focus |
| Stage | 3D Mechanical Stage |
| Illumination | Kohler Halogen with Condenser and Iris Diaphragm |
| Power Supply | Wideband 85V-230V |
| Manufacturer | United Scope, LLC |
| UPC / GTIN | 013964566000 |
Warranty and Support
Specific warranty terms and conditions for the AmScope B690C microscope are not provided in this manual. Please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact your retailer or AmScope directly for detailed warranty information and customer support.
For technical assistance or inquiries, please reach out to the manufacturer, United Scope, LLC, or your authorized AmScope dealer.
