Radical Live Blood Analysis Upgrade Oil Darkfield Condenser and 100x Oil Objective User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Radical Oil Darkfield Condenser and 100x Oil Objective. This specialized accessory is designed to upgrade standard compound light microscopes for advanced live blood analysis, offering enhanced contrast and detail for observing unstained biological samples. The condenser features a Numerical Aperture (NA) of 1.25, and the accompanying 100x oil objective includes a built-in diaphragm for precise intensity control, crucial for optimal darkfield illumination.

Package Contents

Please verify that all the following items are included in your package:

• Oil Darkfield Condenser (NA 1.25)
• 100x Oil Objective with Diaphragm (DIN size 160mm Par Focal)
• 10ml Immersion Oil

Image 1: The Oil Darkfield Condenser and 100x Oil Objective as received in their protective packaging. The objective is visible in a clear plastic case, and the condenser is seated in a custom-fit foam insert.

Image 2: A close-up view of the Radical Oil Darkfield Condenser, showing its black housing and the "N.A. 1.25" marking. Two silver adjustment screws are visible on the sides.

Setup

1. Prepare Your Microscope: Ensure your compound light microscope is turned off and unplugged. Remove any existing condenser from the condenser holder beneath the stage.
2. Install the Darkfield Condenser: Carefully insert the Radical Oil Darkfield Condenser into the microscope's condenser holder. Ensure it is seated firmly and centered. Some microscopes may require minor adjustments to the condenser mount for a secure fit.
3. Install the 100x Oil Objective: Rotate your microscope's revolving nosepiece to an empty slot. Carefully screw the 100x Oil Objective into the empty objective slot until it is finger-tight. Avoid overtightening.
4. Clean Optics: Before use, gently clean the exposed optical surfaces of both the condenser and the objective using a clean, lint-free lens paper and a small amount of optical cleaning solution.

Operating Instructions

The Radical Darkfield Condenser and 100x Oil Objective are designed for optimal performance in live blood analysis. Follow these steps for proper operation:

1. Prepare Your Sample: Place a drop of fresh, unstained blood on a clean microscope slide and cover it with a coverslip. Ensure there are no air bubbles.
2. Apply Immersion Oil to Condenser: Place a small drop of the provided immersion oil on the top lens of the darkfield condenser. This oil creates an optical bridge between the condenser and the microscope slide, which is critical for darkfield illumination.
3. Place Slide on Stage: Carefully place the prepared slide on the microscope stage, ensuring the blood sample is directly over the condenser's oil drop.
4. Apply Immersion Oil to Objective: Rotate the nosepiece to position the 100x Oil Objective over the sample. Apply a small drop of immersion oil directly onto the coverslip where the 100x objective will make contact.
5. Focusing:
   • Slowly lower the 100x objective until it makes contact with the oil on the coverslip.
   • Using the coarse focus knob, raise the objective until the sample comes into approximate focus.
   • Use the fine focus knob to achieve sharp focus.
6. Adjusting Illumination (Diaphragm Control): The 100x oil objective features a built-in diaphragm. Adjust this diaphragm to control the intensity and contrast of the darkfield illumination. Experiment with different settings to achieve the best visibility of the blood components. The goal is to have bright objects against a dark background.
7. Condenser Centering: If your microscope has condenser centering screws, adjust them to ensure the darkfield illumination is uniform across the field of view.

Note: Darkfield microscopy requires careful adjustment of illumination and focus. Practice is key to achieving optimal results.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance will ensure the longevity and performance of your Radical Darkfield Condenser and 100x Oil Objective.

• Cleaning Optics: After each use, especially when using immersion oil, gently clean the oil from the objective lens and the top surface of the condenser. Use only high-quality, lint-free lens paper and a small amount of optical cleaning solution specifically designed for microscope optics. Wipe in a single direction to avoid smearing.
• General Cleaning: Keep the exterior surfaces of the condenser and objective clean by wiping with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use, store the condenser and objective in their original protective packaging or a dry, dust-free environment. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity.
• Handling: Always handle the condenser and objective by their metal or plastic bodies, avoiding contact with the optical surfaces.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Condenser Does Not Fit Microscope:

  Issue: The condenser is too tight or too loose in the microscope's condenser holder.

  Solution: This condenser is designed for standard microscope condenser mounts. Verify your microscope's condenser mount diameter. If the fit is extremely tight, do not force it, as this may damage the microscope or the condenser. If it is too loose, ensure the retaining screw (if present on your microscope) is tightened. Contact the manufacturer if the fit remains problematic after verifying compatibility.
• Poor or No Darkfield Illumination:

  Issue: The field of view is not dark, or the sample appears dim.

  Solution:

  • Ensure immersion oil is applied correctly between the condenser and the slide, and between the objective and the slide.
  • Verify the condenser is properly centered.
  • Adjust the built-in diaphragm on the 100x objective.
  • Check that the microscope's light source is functioning and at an appropriate intensity.
  • Ensure no other diaphragms (e.g., field diaphragm) are closed too much.
• Unclear or Blurry Image:

  Issue: The image lacks sharpness or is difficult to focus.

  Solution:

  • Ensure sufficient immersion oil is used and free of air bubbles.
  • Clean the objective and condenser lenses thoroughly.
  • Adjust the fine focus knob slowly and carefully.
  • Verify the sample slide is prepared correctly and flat on the stage.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Radical Darkfield Condenser and 100x Oil Objective, please contact the manufacturer directly. Refer to the documentation provided with your original purchase for specific warranty terms and contact details. You may also visit the official Radical website for further assistance.