Most microscopes are not equipped to automatically switch between fluorescence filter positions, a prerequisite for advanced image capture applications
One of the fastest growing techniques within research microscopy is fluorescence imaging.
Most microscopes from leading manufacturers are not equipped to automatically switch between fluorescence filter positions, something that is becoming an essential prerequisite for advanced image capture applications. Prior Scientific has designed and manufactured a range of high-speed filter wheels and shutters to allow easy upgrade of existing and new microscopes to allow fast, vibration free filter changing.
These can be controlled either directly, via an optional filter wheel and shutter keypad or indirectly, through a PC running a terminal emulation package such as HyperTerminal or a third party imaging package.
The filter wheels are available in two versions, an eight-position unit suitable for 32mm diameter filters and a ten-position version that accepts 25mm diameter filters.
Both versions offer exceptionally high-speed filter changing, less than 60ms from adjacent positions, even when the units are fully loaded with filters.
The units are quick and easy to install and produce a very smooth transition from filter position to filter position.
This is due to Prior Scientific's unique 'S' curve acceleration profile.
Ultimately this results in practically no vibration whatsoever being transferred to the microscope, which is critical for production of flawless images with no registration errors between colour channels.
Both filter wheel versions are also available with an optional stand for increased rigidity.
The range of high speed shutters are also available in two sizes, 25mm and 32mm suitable for stand-alone applications or for attachment directly to a Prior filter wheel.
Both sizes are also available in versions for normal brightfield applications or special high temperature units for fluorescence imaging.
All versions offer an open/close cycle time of around 14ms.
