Stereomicroscopes or stereoscopic microscopes have come into use for many decades. This specialty microscope allows three-dimensional imaging so that every minute part of the specimen is clearly seen. It is unlike ordinary compound microscopes that can only see images in one plane.

Stereomicroscopes can be used in fields such as surgery, research in entomology and botany, inspection of jewelry and even investigations of crime scenes. Such is the use of a stereomicroscope so that the illuminating features are emphasized for it to perform its function.

So how does the illumination affect the performance of a stereoscopic microscope? How does it work and what does it do? The typical compound microscope can view images that are translucent with magnification that ranges from 50-1200 times. On the other hand, a stereoscopic microscope can view specimens through reflected light and with magnification of only 8-50 times, much lower than the compound microscope.

Because of the low magnification of stereomicroscopes, minute objects like microorganisms cannot be seen clearly. Only larger objects can be viewed. But it is not entirely disadvantageous as there is little adjustment needed when comparing the actual image and the image that is seen in the microscope. The truth is it is quite easy to use even with beginners and amateurs.

How does illumination work? The outdoor use of stereomicroscopes can use the sun’s rays directly. A good over-all view of the specimen will be seen. But if you want to see finer details, the light has to be diffused using translucent white screen that is suitable and reflecting. This can be done by setting up your microscope on a table with a lamp close by. Better and clearer view can be seen if a more powerful source of direct light is used.

The reason why light is so important is for the enhancement of the illumination. Illumination makes use of light to create highlights and shadows in the image to make the image more visible to the viewer. This way, a fine display of colors, hues and shades will come out making the user appreciate the beauty and significance of the image.

There are many stereomicroscopes available that come with its own light source that makes the viewing more convenient. If you are viewing live specimens, though, making use of direct light can cause harm to the specimen, possibly making it die. Do not forget that it is still light, it emits infrared radiation and you are risking desiccation.

Do not despair, you can still use this type of microscope for all its advantages in bringing out color in the specimen. The trick is to use it in only short periods of time. Then you can let go of the specimen. There are other tricks. A heat absorbing filter may be used to lower the temperature in the area and the light that is given out is colder. These filters are those that come with projector slides. So you could buy these in shops specializing in projector accessories.

Choosing the kind of stereomicroscope with the right illumination can be daunting. There are so many state-of-the-art models out today. There is one particular kind that has an LED illumination that has anti-tamper features that makes it great to carry around and is assured to last a very long time. Fiber optic illumination may also be purchased. The feature can be used with any objective, even with oil immersion.

Illumination lamps in microscopes are usually rechargeable. Typically, these microscopes can charge from 5 to 6 hours and has usage time of up to 50 hours. So that’s not bad! The LED bulb does expire but its longevity can last up to 10,000 hours. That is a lot of viewing time.

It would be good to know that as you go higher with the magnification power with your microscope, the less the illumination feature is used. That is why the stereomicroscope is designed with low magnification power, to maximize the effect of direct light, not to see through the specimen but to see the specimen as a whole.

For a microscopy fan, the use of a stereoscopic microscope with its illumination features is a great thrill. Imagine seeing the specimen much bigger and in full color. What’s more, its three-dimensional, looks so real. That is why investing in a microscope like this is well worth the price for all the things it can do, especially for enthusiasts. When intending to buy one, simply consider what exactly it is that you need and your budget and off you go. Browse through the net and surely you will find the perfect stereoscopic microscope just for you.

For more information, please visit http://www.digitalstereoscopicmicroscopes.com/