Portable entomology imaging system includes zoom microscope, digital camera, fibre optic light source, and small form factor computer workstation with preloaded imaging software
GT EntoVision launches what it says is a whole new way of imaging for the travelling entomologist.
Many entomologists frequently travel long distances, either to examine other collections or to collect insects for their own studies.
One of the most frustrating difficulties associated with these trips is the often limited facilities available locally for the imaging of specimens.
With severe restrictions placed on the movement of specimens by governments and institutions, it is often no longer practical to ship or bring specimens back for examination in their own facilities as may have been done in the past.
As a result of strong demand from the entomological community GT EntoVision have carefully researched and tested a range of components that will now allow entomologists to pack up and take with them their own, high quality, imaging system.
The key aspects of this system are high performance imaging at a reasonable cost, with the additional benefit of being completely portable.
The system includes a fully apochromatically corrected zoom microscope, a scientific grade 3CCD digital camera, a specially selected and configured fibre optic light source, and a powerful, lightweight and portable small form factor computer workstation with GT EntoVision's imaging software all preloaded.
The bulk of the system is housed in a purpose-built shipping case with wheels incorporating cut-outs to cradle all components safely, even in an aircraft hold.
This system represents a significant step forward to entomologists as it includes optics, a digital camera, illumination and software that probably exceed the capabilities of many of the best equipped labs.
Now entomologists can be sure of first rate and consistent results no matter where they choose to study their insects. Stephen McJonathan, GT EntoVision's leading systems developer says: "Our thorough testing programme has not only proven that the Portable EntoVision imaging system produces outstanding images but that it can also withstand shipping in aircraft holds.
"We have had a lot of interest in the system from leading entomology taxonomists, we are sure it is going to play an important part in the identification and classification of new species of insects throughout the world."
