3B SCIENTIFIC® PHYSICS Microscopes
Instruction Manual for ME5, BE5, and TE5 Models
Product Range
- Monocular Microscope, ME5 (Art. No. 1020249)
- Binocular Microscope, BE5 (Art. No. 1020250)
- Trinocular Microscope, TE5 (Art. No. 1020251)
Description and Technical Data
The E5 series microscopes provide two-dimensional viewing of specimens, such as thin sections of plant or animal matter, with magnifications ranging from 40x to 1000x. The Trinocular model (TE5) additionally offers the capability to connect a camera for photographic and/or video documentation.
Microscope Components
Diagram showing a typical microscope with numbered parts:
- 1. Eyepiece
- 2. Tube
- 3. Revolving nosepiece with objectives
- 4. Object stage with object guide
- 5. Condenser with iris diaphragm and filter holder
- 6. Illumination
- 7. Mains switch
- 8. Head
- 9. Stand
- 10. x-y Cross-table adjustment
- 11. Retaining lever
- 12. Fine adjustment
- 13. Coarse and fine adjustment
Technical Specifications
Description | 1020249 (ME5) | 1020250 (BE5) | 1020251 (TE5) |
---|---|---|---|
Stand | Monocular inclined 30°, head rotation 360° | Monocular inclined 30°, head rotation 360° | Monocular inclined 30°, head rotation 360° |
Tube | Wide field plan eyepiece PL 10x 18 mm | Wide field plan eyepiece PL 10x 18 mm | Wide field plan eyepiece PL 10x 18 mm |
Eyepieces | N/A (Monocular) | N/A (Binocular) | N/A (Trinocular) |
Objectives | Inverted objective revolver with 4 achromatic objectives: 4x/0.10, 10x/0.25, 40x/0.65, 100x/1.25 (oil) | ||
Enlargement | 40x, 100x, 400x, 1000x | ||
Object Stage | x-y mechanical stage, 132 mm x 140 mm, with object guide and coaxial adjustment knobs. Adjustment range: 76 mm x 50 mm, accuracy 0.1 mm | ||
Illumination | Adjustable LED lighting integrated in base, universal 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz power supply | ||
Condenser | Abbe condenser N.A. 1.25 with iris diaphragm, filter holder | ||
Dimensions | 350 mm x 213 mm x 366 mm approx. | ||
Weight | 8 kg approx. |
Note: The stand description in the table is a general description for all models, focusing on the inclined head and rotation.
Unpacking and Assembly
- The microscope is packed in a molded styrofoam container.
- Carefully remove the microscope from the carton by lifting the top half of the container. Be cautious to prevent optical items (objectives and eyepieces) from dropping.
- To prevent condensation on optical components, allow the microscope to adjust to room temperature in its original packaging.
- Using both hands (one on the pillar, one on the base), lift the microscope and place it on a stable desk.
- Objectives are supplied in individual protective vials. Install objectives into the revolving nosepiece starting with the lowest magnification, in a clockwise direction from the rear.
- Insert the eyepiece into the tube and secure it using the small hex key.
- Secure the head using the large hex key.
Operation
General Information
- Place the microscope on a level table.
- Position the object to be observed in the center of the object plate.
- Connect the mains cable and turn on the switch to illuminate the object.
- Ensure the specimen is centered over the stage opening.
- Perform eyepiece dioptre adjustments to suit your vision (refer to 3.2).
- Adjust the interpupillary distance until a single image field is visible (refer to 3.3).
- Adjust the iris diaphragm aperture for optimal brightness and contrast.
- Rotate the nosepiece to select the lowest magnification objective, ensuring it clicks into place.
- Note: Begin with the lowest power objective to view general structural details with the widest field of view. Increase magnification as needed for finer details.
Magnification and Focusing
To determine the magnification, multiply the eyepiece power by the objective power.
- Use the coarse-focusing knob to move the stage until the specimen is roughly focused. Avoid contact between the objective and the slide to prevent damage.
- Use the fine-focusing knob for sharp and clear image adjustment.
- Colour filters can be inserted into the filter holder for enhanced specimen detail. Swing out the filter holder to insert filters.
- Avoid spilling liquids on the microscope.
- Handle the microscope with care, avoiding excessive force.
- Do not wipe optics with bare hands.
- Do not attempt self-service.
Dioptre Adjustment (BE5 and TE5)
- Look through the right eyepiece with your right eye and focus on the object.
- Look through the left eyepiece with your left eye. If the image is not sharp, turn the dioptre adjustment ring (1) until it is.
- The dioptre adjustment ring is marked with dioptric values (±5). The scale marking (2) indicates the user's dioptric value.
- Record and set the same dioptre value for future use.
Interpupillary Distance Setting (BE5 and TE5)
- Look through both eyepieces and adjust the tubes around the axle until a single image field is visible.
- The pointer (1) indicates the interpupillary distance on the scale (2).
- Record and set the same interpupillary distance for future use.
Adjustment of Retaining Attachment
The retaining attachment (1) helps resolve issues like difficulty turning the coarse focus knob, slow loss of focus, or stage movement. Turn the knob in the direction of the arrow to secure it; turning the opposite way loosens the focus drive.
Changing the Lamp
- Turn off the power and unplug the mains plug.
- Unscrew the base plate and remove it.
- Unplug the LED unit connector by pressing the socket (1) and pulling the plug (2).
- Remove two screws (3), replace the faulty LED unit with a new one, and reassemble the microscope.
Storage, Cleaning, and Disposal
- Store the microscope in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment.
- Always cover the microscope with the dust cover when not in use.
- Avoid temperatures below 5°C and above 40°C, and relative humidity over 80%.
- Always unplug the mains plug before cleaning or maintenance.
- Do not use volatile solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Do not disassemble objectives or eyepieces for cleaning.
- Use a soft linen cloth with ethanol for general cleaning.
- Use a soft lens tissue for cleaning optics.
- Dispose of packaging at local recycling facilities.
- If disposing of the equipment itself, do not discard it with normal domestic waste. In private households, it can be disposed of at the local public waste disposal authority. ?️
- Comply with regulations for electrical equipment disposal.