VanGuard 1400INi Series Inverted Microscopes Operation Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing this VanGuard microscope. With the user in mind, VanGuard microscopes are built from modern designs and should provide a lifetime of reliable performance. Before using this microscope it must be properly setup, which requires some familiarity with the microscope. For this reason we recommend you read this entire manual carefully before setting up and using the instrument.

1400INi Series Inverted Microscopes

Vanguard 1400INi Series inverted microscopes are suited for observation of biological cultures or specimens within well plates, petri dishes, slides and vials.

Viewing Head: Rotatable trinocular (Seidentopf) head is inclined at 30°. All models feature interpupillary and dioptric adjustment. The trinocular head features a sliding main prism (80/20 split) to provide full-time imaging when the vertical tube is in use (80% of the image to the vertical tube and 20% to the eyetubes).

Eyepieces: 10X ultra-widefield (DIN) with a field diameter of 22mm.

Nosepiece: Quintuple, ball-bearing nosepiece with high-grade lubricant and positive stops.

Objectives: Plan achromatic, infinity corrected objectives come standard on both models. Objectives are made to DIN standards and are optically coated.

Stage: The fixed stage measures 160 x 250mm and 300 x 250mm with stage extensions/mechanical stage attached. Mechanical stage accepts 96 well microplate and included stage inserts: Terasaki/65mm petri dish, 1 x 3" slide/54mm petri dish, 35mm petri dish. Motion of mechanical stage is controlled by a right-hand, low-position coaxial control and is driven by a rack and pinion system.

Focusing movement: Coaxial, ultra-low position coarse and fine focus controls feature a 40mm focusing range and are graduated to 2 microns per division. Fitted with a tension adjustment.

Condenser: Brightfield models come with a 0.30 N.A. condenser. Phase contrast models come with a 0.30 N.A. condenser with phase annulus slider for 10X/20X, and 40X; also has a open setting for brightfield work. All condensers are factory centered and aligned for ease of setup and include an iris diaphragm, and a slide-in filter holder.

Illumination: 30W variable quartz halogen light source. Comes with blue, green (model 1493INi only), and dispersion filters. 1A, 250V fuses.

Body: Cast-metal, ergonomic body with stain-resistant enamel finish.

Specifications

Troubleshooting

Symptom: No image visable in eyepiece(s) and/or trinocular port

Symptom: Can't focus on specimen image

Symptom: No light visable from collector

Symptom: Image through eyepieces is too dim

Symptom: The objectives keep drifting downward

Parts & Accessories

Included Parts

Model 1491INi

• Trinocular Head Assembly
• Stand
• Condenser
• Detachable Slide-Out Filter Holder
• Socket Assembly
• 10X High Eyepoint Eyepiece
• 4X Plan Infinity LWD Objective
• 10X Plan Infinity LWD Objective
• 20X Plan Infinity LWD Objective
• 40X Plan Infinity LWD Objective
• Terasaki/65mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
• 1 x 3" Slide/54mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
• 35mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
• Glass Stage Insert
• Stage Extension
• Mechanical Stage Assembly
• Trinocular Port
• Camera Port
• Dispersion Filter
• Blue Filter
• Spare 30W, 6V Quartz Halogen Lamp
• Spare 1A Fuses
• Main Power Cord
• Focus Tension Wrench
• Condenser Setscrew Hex Wrench
• Operations Manual
• Dust Cover

Model 1493INi

• Trinocular Head Assembly
• Stand
• Condenser
• Detachable Slide-Out Filter Holder
• Phase Contrast Annulus Slider
• Phase Contrast Centering Telescope
• Socket Assembly
• 10X High Eyepoint Eyepiece
• 4X Plan, Infinity, LWD Objective
• 10X Plan, Infinity, Phase, LWD Objective
• 20X Plan, Infinity, Phase, LWD Objective
• 40X Plan, Infinity, Phase, LWD Objective
• Terasaki/65mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
• 1 x 3" Slide/54mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
• 35mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
• Glass Stage Insert
• Stage Extension
• Mechanical Stage Assembly
• Trinocular Port
• Camera Port
• Dispersion Filter
• Blue Filter
• Green Filter
• Spare 30W Halogen Lamp
• Spare 1A Fuses
• Main Power Cord
• Focus Tension Wrench
• Condenser Setscrew Hex Wrench
• Annulus Centering Hex Wrench
• Operations Manual
• Dust Cover

Optional Accessories

Digital & Video Camera Systems

Epi-Fluorescence Upgrade Package

Contact us for Information: Optional filter sets for single & multiple dye applications

Setup

Basic Assembly

1. Remove all components from the packaging. Use the parts list on page 3 to verify that all parts are present. Please retain all packaging in the unlikely event that the instrument should need servicing in the future.
2. Place the stand on a stable counter top.
3. Remove the plastic protective cover from the bottom of the head assembly.
4. Loosen the head set knob.
5. Remove the protective cover from the head mount on the stand. Do not release the head assembly until it is firmly secured to the microscope with the head set screw.
6. Place the head assembly on top of the stand so that the dovetail flange slides into place.
7. Secure by tightening the head set screw.
8. Remove the dust caps from the eyetubes.
9. Insert the eyepieces into the eyetubes.
10. Remove the objectives from their storage containers.
11. Unthread four of the protective covers from the nosepiece.
12. Install the objectives onto the nosepiece by threading them clockwise into the holes until they are fully seated. Be careful not to cross thread. It is common practice to install the objectives in order of increasing magnification, though not required.
13. Slightly loosen the two condenser set screws in the condenser mount with the included hex key and insert the condenser into the mount.
14. Model 1491INi only: It will be necessary to remove the condenser plug while inserting the condenser into the condenser mount.
15. Rotate the condenser clockwise until the "AS" mark faces forward.
16. Secure in place by retightening the condenser set screws.
17. Model 1491INi only: Replace the condenser plug into the condenser.
18. Model 1493INi only: Slide the phase annulus slider into the condenser assembly, printed side up.
19. Slide the illuminator power plug onto the two prongs located on the socket assembly.
20. Place the socket assembly onto the condenser so that the large location pins slide into the pin slots and push down gently until housing is fully seated.
21. Place the glass stage plate into the opening in the stage. This plate allows the user to easily view the objectives.
22. Connect the main power cord to the power cord jack on the back of the microscope.
23. Connect the other end of the main power cord to a suitable power supply.
24. Power on the microscope using the power switch located on the right hand side of the microscope.
25. Set illuminator to desired intensity by adjusting the variable lighting control located at the front of the microscope.

Interpupillary and Diopter Adjustment

Interpupillary adjustment (the distance between eyepieces) is made through a "folding" action. The Seidentopf design allows for a folding adjustment which is quickly and easily done for each user. Proper adjustment is done by looking through the eyepieces, then "folding" the eyepieces until they are comfortable to look through. At this point, if you are seeing two images continue to "fold" the eyepieces together until the images merge into one.

Diopter adjustment allows for proper optical correction based on each individual's eyesight. This adjustment is easily made and is recommended prior to each use by different users to prevent eyestrain. The procedure for dioptric adjustment is as follows:

1. Using the 40X objective and a sample slide (i.e. one which produces an easily focused image), close your left eye and bring the image into focus in your right eye with the coarse/fine focus control.
2. Once the image is well-focused using only your right eye, close your right eye and check the focus with your left.
3. If the image is not perfectly focused, make fine adjustments with the diopter adjustment mechanism located on the left eyetube.
4. Once complete, the microscope is corrected for your vision.

Phase Contrast Setup

This section pertains to model 1493INi only! The phase system comes precentered from the factory but alignment should be checked from time to time especially if poor phase performance has been noted.

1. Power on the microscope and rotate the objective turret until the 10X objective is in the light path. Make sure the condenser iris is fully opened.
2. Place a specimen on the stage and focus the image using the coaxial focus controls.
3. Remove the right eyepiece and insert the centering telescope into the empty eyetube.
4. Adjust the phase annulus slider to the "10-20" position.
5. While looking through the centering telescope, turn the uppermost portion of the telescope only to focus the annulus rings.
6. Insert the annulus centering hex keys into the the adjustment holes on the phase annulus slider. Turn the hex keys until the two phase rings visible in the centering telescope are centered over one another. Repeat this step for the 40X objective and "40" annulus setting.

Optional Setup

Stage extensions and mechanical stage assembly

1. Either one or both of the included stage extensions can be attached at the same time on opposite sides of the stage to increase the stage size when using large specimen holders. In addition, the mechanical stage can be attached to either side of the stage in place of an extension.
2. Hold the extension or mechanical stage against the side of the stage and position the screws underneath the screw holes. Thread the screws into the screw holes and tighten down until the attachment is secure.

Colored Filters

Your Vanguard Microscope was supplied with either two or three filters. Brightfield models (1491INi) come with a dispersion (frosted) filter and a blue filter. Phase contrast models (1493INi) add a green filter.

1. Slide out the filter holder and place the desired filter into the bottom of the holder making sure that it sits flat. Replace filter holder.
2. You may stack filters but the total thickness should not exceed 11mm.

Dispersion filters can be used to soften harsh illumination for both viewing and photomicroscopy. Dispersion filters can control photograph exposure levels. The green filter is used primarily for phase contrast and photograph color correction. Achromatic and plan achromatic objectives give their best image in green light. The blue filter is used to approximate natural light. Because this is not a conversion filter, it should not be used for photomicroscopy. Filtering is a user preference and application specific issue and therefore beyond the scope of this manual. There are many sources available that explain proper filtering technique and theory.

Trinocular Port

The trinocular port can be used as an additional viewing tube when a standard 23mm eyepiece is inserted (not included) as well as to attach a camera for documentation and group observation.

1. Loosen the trinocular port set screw and remove the trinocular port dust cap.
2. Slide the trinocular tube assembly into the trinocular port and secure with the trinocular port set screw. Be sure the trinocular tube is inserted fully into the trinocular port.
3. For attaching an eyepiece simply remove the trinocular tube dust cap and insert a 23mm eyepiece. For attaching a camera follow the instructions provided with the camera package for assembly and use.

Note: When using the trinocular port it is necessary to pull the light path selection knob fully to the right. This diverts 80% of the available light to the trinocular tube while the remaining 20% is directed to the main eyepieces. When pushed inward fully, the selector directs 100% of the light to the main eyepieces for the brightest specimen viewing possible.

Microscope Use

Focusing and Mechanical Stage Mechanisms

1. Focusing adjustment is achieved by turning the coarse/fine focus controls located on both sides of the microscope. The large knob is used for coarse adjustment, the smaller knob for fine adjustment. The coaxial arrangement allows for easy, precise adjustment without drift.
2. Turning the coarse/fine focus control raises and lowers the nosepiece vertically. One complete turn of the fine focusing knob raises or lowers the nosepiece 0.3mm; the smallest graduation refers to 2 microns of vertical movement. One complete turn of the coarse focusing knob raises or lowers the nosepiece 3.6mm. To ensure long life, turn the focusing knobs slowly and uniformly.
3. The focusing tension control knob is located just inside of the right-hand focus control knob. For tighter tension, use the included tension adjustment wrench and turn the control knob in a clockwise motion. For looser tension, turn the control knob in a counterclockwise motion.
4. The mechanical stage X-Y controls, located underneath the right-hand side of the stage, provide easy and accurate positioning of the sample. One complete turn of the longitudinal (Y) control (lower half of the stage controls) will move the specimen 34mm left or right. One complete turn of the transverse (X) control (upper half of the stage controls) will move the specimen 20mm front or back.
5. This microscope comes with various stage inserts: Terasaki/65mm Petri Dish Stage Insert, 1 x 3" Slide/54mm Petri Dish Stage Insert, 35mm Petri Dish Stage Insert, Glass Stage Insert.

Brightfield and Phase Contrast Condensers

1. Aperture Adjustment: The light path can be adjusted with the iris diaphragm adjustment lever located in the condenser. The aperture diaphragm acts as a control for resolution and contrast. Generally, if the iris diaphragm is open too far, you will have high contrast at the expense of resolution. If the iris is closed too far, you will not have enough contrast to properly view the specimen. The condenser iris diaphragm should not be used to adjust light intensity, which is best left to the variable lighting control.
2. Annulus Slider (phase contrast condenser only): When using phase contrast the number on the annulus slider must match the magnification of the objective in use. For example, if you are using the 10X objective, slide the annulus turret until it reads "10-20". For brightfield work set the annulus slider to the open position.

Maintenance

Caring for your 1400INi Microscope

The eyepieces and objective lenses on VanGuard Microscopes have delicate, optical coatings. Therefore they should never be wiped while dry because any dirt or dust will scratch the coating. Blow off the lens surface with an air-bulb and lens brush. Then use a lens cleaning solution. Never use anything other than lens cleaner on any optical component. Apply with a cotton swab for a minimum of wetting, then wipe the surface clean with a quality lens tissue.

The same care instructions apply to all optical parts on this VanGuard Microscope, including the condenser lenses.

All other parts can be cleaned with a paper towel and mild detergent. Be aware that rubbing alcohol can break down lubricants and damage the painted surfaces; it is therefore not recommended. If used, be careful when cleaning near the following parts: Focus controls, Nosepiece, Mechanical controls.

Xylene, since it breaks down the bonding material holding the lenses, should never be used as a cleaner.

Periodically, your VanGuard Microscope should be fully serviced by a qualified service technician.

In order to keep dust and debris out of the optical pathways, always keep the camera port and eyetubes covered (with either eyepieces or dust caps), and always use the dust cover when the microscope is not in use.

Replacing the Fuses

If the microscope is plugged in but the bulb is not turning on, the fuses could be blown. The instructions below detail how to check for a blown fuse. You can tell a blown fuse by if the wire inside is broken, or the glass is blackened.

Before attempting to replace or remove the fuse, UNPLUG THE MICROSCOPE FROM ANY POWER SOURCE.

1. Remove the fuse holders from the rear of the microscope by using a slotted screwdriver to push inward while turning counter-clockwise.
2. Remove the fuse from the fuse holder.
3. If the fuse is blown replace by inserting a new fuse into the fuse holder.
4. Thread the fuse holder back into the microscope by turning in a clockwise direction with the slotted screwdriver.

Replacement Fuse - 2 each 1A 250V (Cat. No. 1200-FS4)

Replacing the Lamp

Before attempting to replace or remove the lamp, UNPLUG THE MICROSCOPE FROM ANY POWER SOURCE and allow to cool.

1. Remove the socket assembly from the top of the condenser.
2. Remove the lamp from the socket by gently pulling.

Be careful not to touch the glass bulb when replacing - use a tissue or other medium to grasp the lamp. This will prevent the oils in your hand from reducing lamp life. If contact is made with the bulb, clean with rubbing alcohol and allow a brief drying period.

3. When replacing, insert the new lamp into the socket assembly. Make sure that the pins on the lamp line up with the holes on the socket. The pins should slide freely into the holes with only slight resistance - do not force.
4. The lamp filament should be lined up with the screw head located underneath the lamp for proper centering.
5. Replace the socket assembly.

Replacement Lamp - 30W, 6V Halogen (Cat. No. 1400-30WHL)

Parts Diagram Description

The VanGuard 1400INi microscope features several key components:

• Head Assembly: Houses the eyepieces and trinocular port, connected to the stand.
• Eyepieces: 10X ultra-widefield lenses for viewing.
• Trinocular Port: Allows for the attachment of a camera or a third eyepiece.
• Interpupillary Adjustment: Mechanism to adjust the distance between eyepieces.
• Diopter Adjustment: Located on the eyetubes for individual eye focus correction.
• Nosepiece: Holds the objectives and rotates to change magnification.
• Objectives: Lenses providing different magnifications (e.g., 4X, 10X, 20X, 40X Plan Achromatic, Infinity Corrected).
• Stage: Platform where the specimen slide or plate is placed. Features mechanical stage controls for precise movement.
• Mechanical Stage: Allows for X-Y movement of the specimen.
• Condenser: Located below the stage, focuses light onto the specimen. Includes iris diaphragm control and, on phase contrast models, an annulus slider.
• Condenser Lens: Part of the condenser assembly, can be removed for increased clearance.
• Slide-out Filter Holder: Located in the condenser assembly for inserting filters.
• Focus Controls: Coaxial coarse and fine focus knobs for adjusting image sharpness.
• Focus Tension Control: Adjusts the resistance of the focus knobs.
• Power Switch: Turns the microscope illuminator on/off.
• Variable Lighting Control (VLC): Adjusts the brightness of the illuminator.
• Illuminator/Lamp Socket Assembly: Houses the light source.
• Stand: The main body supporting all components.
• X-Y Stage Controls: Knobs for precise movement of the mechanical stage.
• Light Path Selection Knob: (On trinocular models) Directs light to eyepieces or trinocular port.
• Head Set Screw: Secures the head assembly to the stand.
• Interpupillary Scale: Marking for setting interpupillary distance.