Introduction
The Carson MicroFlip MP-250BUN is a powerful, portable pocket microscope designed for detailed observation. It features 100x-250x magnification, LED and UV lighting, and a unique flip-down slide base. This model includes a smartphone digiscoping adapter and a bundle of 24 prepared insect and animal slides, offering an enhanced viewing and learning experience. This manual provides essential instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your MicroFlip microscope.
Image: The Carson MicroFlip MP-250BUN pocket microscope shown with its included prepared insect and animal slides.
Package Contents
- MicroFlip Pocket Microscope
- Smartphone Digiscoping Adapter Clip
- 1 Blank Slide
- 1 Cover Slip
- 12 Prepared Specimen Slides
- 12 Prepared Animal Slides
- Wrist Strap
Image: The MicroFlip microscope, smartphone adapter, blank slide, and wrist strap.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
The MicroFlip requires one AA battery (not included). To install, locate the battery compartment cover on the side of the microscope. Slide the cover off, insert the AA battery according to the polarity indicators, and then replace the cover securely.
2. Attaching the Smartphone Adapter
The included smartphone adapter allows you to connect your phone to the microscope for digital viewing and capturing images/videos. Clip the adapter onto your smartphone, ensuring the phone's camera lens is aligned with the adapter's opening. Then, attach the adapter to the eyepiece of the MicroFlip microscope.
Image: A smartphone securely attached to the MicroFlip microscope using the digiscoping adapter, ready for observation.
Operating Instructions
1. Powering On and Adjusting Magnification
Press the power button to turn on the LED light. The MicroFlip offers 100x-250x magnification. Rotate the zoom wheel on the side of the microscope to adjust the magnification level to your desired setting.
2. Using the LED Light
The built-in LED light illuminates your subject for clear viewing. When the base plate is folded down for slide viewing, the LED light automatically adjusts for optimal illumination of transparent slides. When the base plate is flipped up for direct object viewing, the LED light provides direct illumination from above.
Image: The compact MicroFlip microscope held in a hand, demonstrating its portability and ease of use for direct object viewing.
3. Using the UV Light
The MicroFlip includes a built-in UV flashlight. To activate, press and hold the dedicated UV button. This feature is useful for observing hidden security features on currency or other fluorescent materials.
4. Viewing Slides
For viewing prepared slides or your own specimens on blank slides, ensure the flip-down base plate is extended. Place the slide onto the base plate. Adjust the focus wheel until the image is clear. The included 24 prepared slides (12 insect, 12 animal) provide a variety of subjects for immediate observation.
Image: A set of 12 prepared insect slides, featuring various insect parts like butterfly wings, locust legs, and honeybee antennae.
Image: A set of 12 prepared animal slides, including specimens like plankton, cat hair, rabbit hair, and fish scales.
5. Viewing Objects Directly
For observing larger objects or surfaces (e.g., leaves, fabrics, skin), flip the base plate up. Position the microscope directly over the object. Use the focus wheel to achieve a clear image. The LED light will illuminate the object from above.
Image: A user examining a leaf with the MicroFlip microscope, utilizing the smartphone adapter to view the magnified image on their phone screen.
6. Using the CarsonCam Phone App
When using the smartphone adapter, the image displayed on your phone may appear inverted. The CarsonCam App (available for download) can correct this orientation, converting your pocket microscope into a digital microscope with a correctly oriented image. This enhances the viewing and sharing experience.
Official Product Video: Carson MicroFlip Overview
Video: An official overview of the Carson MicroFlip 100-250x LED & UV Lighted Field Microscope, demonstrating its features and usage, including the smartphone adapter and different viewing modes.
Maintenance
- Cleaning Optics: Use a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for optical lenses to clean the microscope's lens. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
- General Cleaning: Wipe the body of the microscope with a soft, damp cloth. Do not immerse the device in water.
- Storage: Store the MicroFlip in a dry, dust-free environment when not in use.
- Battery Replacement: Replace the AA battery when the LED or UV lights dim or fail to turn on. Always dispose of used batteries responsibly.
Troubleshooting
- No Light: Ensure the AA battery is correctly installed and not depleted. Replace if necessary.
- Unclear Image: Adjust the focus wheel slowly. Ensure the object or slide is properly positioned under the lens. For smartphone viewing, ensure the phone camera is aligned with the adapter and the microscope's eyepiece.
- Smartphone Image Inverted: Download and use the CarsonCam App to correct the image orientation.
Specifications
| Model Name | MicroFlip with Slide Set |
| Model Number | MP-250BUN |
| Magnification | 100x-250x |
| Light Source | LED, UV Light |
| Power Source | 1 AA Battery (Not Included) |
| Material | Plastic |
| Product Dimensions | 1.5"L x 1"W x 5.5"H |
| Item Weight | 2.88 ounces |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone (with adapter) |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please visit the official Carson website or contact Carson customer service directly. Refer to the product packaging for specific contact details or warranty registration instructions.
You can also visit the Carson Store on Amazon for more products and information.
