Understanding Microscopes: Essential Tools for Scientific Research

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Microscopes are used for viewing the small objects and materials that are invisible to the naked eye. We can say microscopes are the fundamental tools in scientific research. In this blog, we will discuss the different types of microscopes. Essential guidelines on How to set up microscopes and use them in a laboratory. We also mentioned the leading Microscope manufacturer and supplier in Kenya.

Types of Microscopes

Optical Microscopes

Light Microscopes

Light microscopes are a type of optical microscope that uses visible light to magnify small samples. They are easy to use and widely available which makes them suitable for educational institutions and basic research labs.

Compound Microscopes

A subset of light microscopes; compound ones achieve high magnification with multiple lenses. They allow detailed observation of cell structures which makes them invaluable tools for biological research.

Stereo Microscopes

These provide three-dimensional views of samples enabling dissection and detailed examination of surface structures. Stereo Microscopes find wide application in industrial settings among other places like biological research labs etc.

Electron Microscopes

Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM)

High-resolution images of sample surfaces are produced by SEMs using focused beams of electrons. They are important for studying surface topography and composition in materials science/nanotechnology.

Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

TEMs transmit electrons through a sample to generate detailed images showing internal structures at the atomic level, they can be applied across many disciplines including material science.

Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM)

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)

AFMs mechanically map the surface topography of a sample at atomic scale using a probe. They are widely used in materials science and nanotechnology because they can measure surface properties with great precision.

Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM)

STMs use quantum tunneling of electrons to produce images showing surfaces on an atomic level; this is essential for studying surface structures in nanotechnology and electronic properties.

Digital Microscopes

Digital microscopes capture images that can be displayed on computer screens making it easy for analysis and documentation. 

Essential equipment and set-up for the microscopes

Slides and coverslip

Slides are the thin glass plates usually used to hold the specimens for examination under the microscopes.

Staining reagents

It is used to color specimen-specific components, which makes them easier to see under microscopes.

Mounting medium

It is used to preserve the specimen and improve the image quality.

Immersion Oil

It is used with high-power objectives just to increase the resolution of the image.

Setting-up a microscopes

Positioning the microscopes

Always the microscopes on a stable and flat surface with proper lighting. 

Preparing the specimen

Prepare the specimen by placing it on a slide and covering it with a cover slip.

Recording observation

Document your observation by taking notes, drawing sketches, or capturing images by using a camera attached to your microscope.

Innovations in Microscope Technology

Digital Microscopy Advancements

Digital microscopy has undergone great advances over time leading to better imaging capabilities coupled with its ease of use.

AI and Machine Learning Integration

Integration of AI together with machine learning technologies into microscopes has brought about improved diagnostic accuracy in other areas such as image analysis.

Resolution Improvement and Imaging Techniques Development

As days go by resolutions continue getting better while at the same time, more and more imaging methods are being discovered.

Portable/Handheld Scope Devices

The portability factor is becoming increasingly important where microscopes are concerned since people want something they can carry around easily during fieldwork or any other type of onsite analysis requirement.

We are a leading and well-known Microscope manufacturer and supplier in Kenya, we provide a wide range of Microscope not only in Kenya but internationally. We are committed to quality and innovation, ensuring that our product meets the rigorous demands of modern scientific inquiry.

To make purchases online visit our website. You can find our catalog on our website and to know more about us you can contact us through a given number and through email. Our customer support is always there to guide you.