Traditional microscopes cannot be used for looking at whole objects, they are designed to look a slides of specimens that are either thin enough (a section of plant stem for example), or small enough (blood cells) for light to pass through them. The objectives of these high power microscopes need to be very close to the specimen for it to be in focus - too close (1 - 2mm) to allow light to shine down on the surface of the specimen. They also have virtually no depth of focus.
The microscopes on this page however are designed to look at whole objects without the need for slides, but at relatively low magnifications. These low power microscopes, are made to have a long working distance (often 2 - 3 inches) and a good depth of focus. They are referred to as stereomicroscopes as they provide a 3D image. They are extremely easy to use and require no specimen preparation. This makes them ideal for the young scientist. If however you still think that you want an ordinary microscope click here.
Unfortunately because of the laws of physics and the fact the light will only travel in straight lines it is not possible to have a microscope that will function as both a high power instrument for looking at slides and also a low power instrument for looking at whole objects. The low power microscopes below are ideal for looking at whole objects of any type - examine the sting of a bee or count the eyes on the forehead of a spider (some have six!).
Low Power/Stereomicroscopes
DM1 - The monocular DM1 is recommended as a budget option for low power microscopy. Because the DM1 only has the one eyetube it does not produce a stereo or 3D image - but is excellent value as a gift particularly for the “person who has everything.” x20 magnification. Needs desk lamp illumination. Includes Petri dishes and specimen tubes - £46.81
DM2 - The binocular DM2 provides a 3D stereoscopic image at x20 . An excellent low power microscope for whole objects. Highly recommended . Needs desk lamp illumination. Petri dishes and specimen tubes. - £62.12
MX-1 - An improved version of the DM-2 with the eyetubes angled back for ease of use. X20 magnification. Needs desk lamp illumination. Petri dishes and specimen tubes included - £80
MX-6T - A stereo with the magnification options of x10 and x30 - probably the most useful magnifications for whole object study. The MX-6T has the potential of x5 to x60 magnification (with extra objectives and eyepieces). In built incident and transmitted illumination. Includes stereo kit - £161.70
IMXZ - The ultimate gift for low power microscopy. The IMXZ is a zoom stereomicroscope with a continuous magnification range between x10 and x40. The specimen remains in focus through out the zoom range. Incident and transmitted illumination. Includes stereo kit - £348.94
We pride ourselves on our speed of delivery, and you can place orders in our Online Shop up to and including Monday 20 December and still receive them in time for Christmas with delivery by carrier within the UK. International orders of course take a little longer and we would advise Friday 10 December as the last day.
For advice or for placing an order by telephone we have a dedicated Christmas Helpline which is manned from 9 - 5.30pm Monday to Friday and from 10 - 2.00pm on Saturdays.
01249 462655 (3lines)
