Olympus offers the first laser scanning confocal system with the ability to create and control evanescent wave fields for fluorescence via total internal reflection fluorescence (Tirf) illumination
The Olympus Fluoview FV1000-EVA module adds computer control of the excitation laser light at or beyond the critical angle for Tirf and evanescent wave excitation.
By combining the flexibility of a traditional laser scanning system with Tirf capabilities, the Olympus FV1000-EVA offers unparalleled system flexibility.
With the FV1000-EVA, scientists doing Tirf illumination can opt to use any of the numerous laser wavelengths designed for confocal illumination as well.
These include 440nm, 488nm, 515nm, a new 559nm, and other wavelengths.
Tirf images are acquired on a CCD camera.
This CCD system requires serial TTL trigger outputs for switching the output wavelength when doing sequential fluorescence observations.
The FV1000-EVA features full computer control of the laser path so that when changing objectives during Tirf illumination, the instrument automatically realigns.
The Fluoview's motorisation allows the system to remember preset alignment positions, for enhanced ease of imaging and totally reproducible experimental protocols.
The auto-adjusted, computer controlled alignment feature adjusts the penetration depth by realigning the beam.
In addition, the angle of the laser can be fine tuned so that researchers using the Tirf microscopy mode can select penetration depths for imaging.
Having the option of Tirf or laser confocal imaging allows a scientist to acquire high signal-to-noise images of events occurring close to the specimen surface, and later do observation of intracellular structure with 3D observation at numerous Z-axis positions, complete with potential image reconstruction.
The system is also appropriate for multi-user facilities.
