The compound microscope was originally invented in 1590 by Zacharias Janssen, a Dutch optician. Also known as a light microscope, the compound microscope gives you a close-up view of tiny structures like cells, bacteria, and other small components.Unless you work in a laboratory day-in and day-out, you may now be aware of the various components of a microscope. In this blog, we're going to cover just that.At SpecialtyOptical.com, we carry a wonderful selection of microscope kits and microscope parts online. From compound microscopes to entry-level microscopes, we're proud to offer some of the best brands and products on the market. Be sure to browse our website for the best selection of microscopes, illuminators, and laboratory supplies online.The Various Parts Of A Compound MicroscopeEyepieceAs you may have been able to guess, the eyepiece is an ocular lens that helps you see magnified images. Most compound microscope lenses can magnify specimen or samples up to 10 or 15x.Eyepiece TubeThis is the part of a compound microscope that connects the eyepiece with the objective lens.Objective LensesOn most laboratory microscopes there are three or four objective lenses attached to the end of the eyepiece tube. These lenses tend to range from 4x to 100x magnifying powers, but this will vary from microscope to microscope.StageThe stage is the platform on the microscope where you place your slides. Most of the time there are stage clips attached to the stage to help keep slides in place.IlluminatorThis is a steady light source that you can find at the very base of the microscope. There is a mirror that reflects light from the outside source through the bottom of the stage. This is used to illuminate the specimen on the slide.Diaphragm or IrisThe diaphragm or iris of a compound microscope can be found directly underneath the stage. This piece can be rotated to vary the intensity of the cone light that is being projected upward toward the slide.Coarse Adjustment KnobThe coarse adjustment knob can help you focus on the specimen in the slide by adjusting the distance of the objective lens. When you turn the knob, it will move the lens up and down until you can see the magnified image clearly.Fine Adjustment KnobWhen you need to move from one objective lens to another, you turn the fine adjustment knob. This lets you view the slide under high or low magnification.SpecialtyOptical.com: Your Partner In Quality MicroscopesWhen you need quality microscopes for your laboratory, classroom, or facility, you can trust SpecialtyOptical.com to provide you with the best selection on the market. We've been an industry leader in the distribution of microscopes, illuminators, task lighting, and replacement bulbs for more than 33 years. Whether you're involved in electronics manufacturing or health care industries, we've got the optical supplies you need to run your business efficiently. Browse our website for the best microscope kits, microscope parts, illuminators, replacement bulbs, and more today!
