Digital imaging heads integrate a high signal-to-noise epi-fluorescence illuminator, binocular eyepiece tube, optical zoom and dual ports into one single unit
Nikon has developed three new digital imaging heads that integrate a high signal to noise epi-fluorescence illuminator, binocular eyepiece tube, dual imaging ports and optical zoom into one single unit to ensure the capture of even better digital images.
The motorised model DiH-E supports fully-automatic image capture, while the manual DiH-M is available with either 100% or 30/70% light distribution to the rearport.
All three models can be used with Nikon's 90i and 80i microscopes.
With the DiH-E model, optical path switching, epi-fluorescence filter cube changing, excitation light shutter, epi-fluorescence field diaphragm, optical zoom, and analyser are all motorised to support the optimum capture of digital images.
This fully motorised system enables automatic image capture even while switching the imaging device from the confocal system or quantitative analysis system to a cooled CCD camera.
In combination with the 90i microscope the DiH-E enables simple, one-touch switching between magnifications and observation technique, such as confocal, epi-fluorescence and DIC.
When the new heads are combined with a Digital Sight-series digital cameras, the status data, such as fluorescence filter information, and zoom magnification, is automatically recorded as a text file along with the captured image.
This feature is extremely convenient for managing the histories of large quantities of images taken under different conditions.
The rear camera port is equipped with a 0.8-2.0x optical zoom to allow digital images to be captured at the desired magnification. Unlike digital zoom, the optical zoom provides high-definition images.
With the new heads, it is possible to mount two types of camera simultaneously.
The front port, which has been designed to minimise light loss is ideal for quantitative analysis of confocial applications.
The ability to capture images with greater precision in the Z-axis direction makes this set-up the most suitable for confocal and deconvolution applications.
Image capture is performed automatically in time-lapse applications, where recordings are made by changing the observation technique, focus point or specimen position.
The Nikon CFi60 Plan Apo VC objectives in which axial chromatic aberration has been corrected up to 405nm (hi-line) are perfect for confocal imaging.
DIC images are rendered with excellent sharpness and even brightness.