microscopes

[mimififi]

Hi there, calling all you sciency type bods!

I am thinking of purchasing a student microscope for my son for chrimble, and I haven't the faintest idea about what to look for, or where to look for one. I was wondering if any of you clever harries could point me in the right direction and tell me what to focus on (no pun intended) when looking for a student scope. I know that slides are extrememy difficult to make, so does anyone know where I can get good kits from to make up slides and also perhaps buy pre made slides too?

Thanks (as usual in advance and 1000 times over)
mimi
XX

[jake-the-peg]

This is probably quite a good place to start

http://www.brunelmicroscopes.co.uk/

[mimififi]

cool, I shall certainly look into these both. Are there anything in particular I should look for or ask for? Any specific features that would be best to have, or unnecessary?

My son is coming up to key stage 3.

cheers
mimi

[Buenchico]

The simplest, cheapest microscopes illuminate the image by using a mirror underneath the slide which has to rotated to a position where the ambient light in the room is reflected in the right direction. This is a pain in the rear and these type of microscopes should definitely be avoided. Instead, look for a microscope with an 'illuminated stage'. (i.e. with a battery-powered light underneath the slide).

The University of Cambridge have allowed their name to be associated with some excellent junior science products. A suitable microscope, from this range, is here:
http://www.eurocosm.com/Application/Products/University- of-Cambridge/Precision-microscope-GB.asp
(When you first go to that page you might see a price quoted in US dollars. Don't worry - it is a UK site. You just need to change the currency display by using the box at the top right). At �39.95 it's certainly not the cheapest microscope you can find but it's a quality product and seems to meet your needs.

Chris

PS: Many thanks for one of your marvellously funny posts about 10 days ago which had me laughing out loud. (I assumed that it was written while you were under the influence of WD40 fumes leaking from your musical box!). Unfortunately, I read it very late and was too tired to provide the sort of response which it deserved - Sorry!

[jake-the-peg]

Sorry I didn't have enough time to answer you properly earlier. I bought my son a microscope about a year ago and went through this learning phase.

The Cambridge one at least has glass lenses but is a "childs microscope" rather than a student microscope. It does not appear to have removable eyepieces and I'd be a bit suspicious about the quality of the gearing which controls the focus. Higher power eyepieces give you more magnification at the expense of lower illumination so the ability to change them is important

the RM1 here: http://www.brunelmicroscopes.co.uk/student-microscope.html

It has acromatic lenses ( which means they dont blur different colours) and 2 seperate eyepieces. The amount of light can be controlled by a diaphragm and optionally takes a mains operated lamp ( which is a wise investment)

It doesn't come with slides so although the price is nominally the same, if you get the lamp at �17 and some slides say �10 and added vat you'll be looking at about �80 but it's the sort of thing that could be used up to A level standard and will take accessories.

So with all things with kids it rather depends on if you think it's likely to go on a shelf on Boxing Day and never used again or whether you think it'll see proper action.

You pays yer money yer takes yer choice!

[mimififi]

Ahhh, you guys, as usual, you always deliver. Cheers very muchly!

I have had a look at both sites and so am in the decision making process (not an easy thing for a ROmany like me), and shall take all the relevent information well and truly onboard. I think it will see alot of action. Science is Henry's favourite subject, and as he is home educated, he does do alot of it. He uses a variety of magnifying glasses no end, and is of course, frustrated by their limitations!

Anyways, thanks again you guys, it is truly appreciated that you took the time and trouble to give me such good advice, and useful URLs. If we don't share any posts before, please have a verry happy Christmas,

Verrily Glee,
MimiXX

[mibn2cweus]

Extreme care is typically warranted when focusing, especially when using the highest power, to avoid scratching or breaking of the lens against the work being viewed, as they are in very close proximity. Always confirm the condition of this lens when purchasing used. Avoid moisture (liquids or condensation) or dust getting into optic devices

[mimififi]

Cool, thanks for the tip mib. I think the ones I have been looking at on the sites from the others have 'stops' on them so you can't put them through the slide! ( I did this once in o'level Chemistry (oops!) had to pay for the damage too, darn state school.) is this feature a good thing then?

I was under the impression that the optics would be a sealed unit, like an SLR camera lens. WOuld it not be good then to use equipment like this with children? How do I stop dust getting on the optic mechanisms/lenses etc if they are not sealed? are there any trix of the trade???

Waiting to hear, worried now about dusting my glass and soiling my optics.....Help please.

[mibn2cweus]

Just being aware that they might be vulnerable should help you take necessary precautions. Keep it in some kind of clean case when not in use. Use in a clean work area etc. Clean lens carefully only when absolutely necessary and of course never touch lenses with fingers.
Occasionally you might view an object not in a slide; this is when you need to be extra careful.
If you get an owners instructions with your microscope this may give some guidance on care of the microscope and cleaning of lenses.
With my telescope I discovered too late that trees weep tiny specks of sap. I wish I had been warned of this in advance. Well designed/made optical devices are great; it's like discovering a whole new world of beauty and wonder. Enjoy!