The Van Guard 1423PHi clinical microscope has two viewing heads, Brightfield, darkfield and phase contrast configurations, integrated Koehler illumination, plan achromatic objectives, and magnification abilities of 4X, 10X, 40X, and 100X, (oil immersion method) for a variety of applications. This compound microscope enhances object or image resolution, and is commonly used in demanding applications, including diagnostic and educational uses in medical and veterinary clinics, universities, and industrial laboratories.

This microscope features binocular viewing heads, to ease eye strain and to provide a more comprehensive view. The unit has 55-75mm interpupillary adjustment for individual eye spacing, and - 6 to + 6 dioptric adjustment capabilities, to compensate for the difference in viewing ability between each eye. It has a VanGuard infinity-corrected optical system (VIOS) for clear images. The microscope has Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN)-standard plan achromatic objective lenses, which correct for red and yellow chromatic aberrations, and sharpen images. Adjustable resolution provides resolvant options of 4X, 10X, 40X, and 100X (0.10, 0.25, 0.65, 1.25 numerical aperture [NA]) (oil immersion method). Integrated Koehler illumination controls brightness, and Brightfield configuration controls light from below, allowing a specimen to absorb light for clear illumination. Darkfield and phase contrast illumination configurations enhance contrast, and produce clearer images of opaque or unstained objects. The unit adjusts light through a Zemike phase annuli condenser (10X, 20X, 40X, and 100X) with an iris diaphragm. The condenser is mounted on a rack and pinion focusing mechanism, and the unit has a filter holder on the collector. The unit has 20-watt variable quartz halogen lighting. It has a 10X widefield eyepiece magnifier, which locks on to the unit for ease of operation. The eyepieces have a high eyepoint (20 mm field diameter), and rubber eyecups to block out external light interference.

This microscope has a large base, and a full-size, ergonomic frame. It is designed for durability and to provide support for a variety of demanding laboratory uses. The unit has a rectangular, chemical-resistant, mechanical stage with rack and pinion assembly and an X-Y, right-hand, drop-down control. It has a removable, spring-clip slide holder mechanism for specimen maneuverability, and a cross travel range of 75 x 50 mm. Stage dimensions are 160 x 140 mm (W x D). A coaxial, low-position mechanism controls focus motion. The unit has coarse- and fine-focus adjustment controls with a 40 mm focusing range, and 0.002 mm precision. Auto-stop and tension control mechanisms protect the gears. The reverse-pitch nosepiece has secure, positive stops, and five rotation positions support a range of magnification. The microscope has a stain-resistant and durable cast metal body with an enamel finish, and anti-skid rubber feet. It comes with a clear diffusing filter, a blue filter, a spare lamp and fuse, a dust cover, and instructions. The 1423PHi has five-year mechanical and optical warranties, and a one-year electrical warranty.

The 1423PHi microscope overall dimensions are 425 x 220 x 380 mm (H x W x D), and base dimensions are 170 x 260 mm (W x D). The unit weighs 9.3 kg. It works with a 0.50A, 250-volt fuse, and a 110-volt power source for illumination, and comes with a six-foot power cord.

Microscopes are instruments used to enhance the resolution of an object or image. Types include compound, stereo, or digital. Compound microscopes use a compound optical system with an objective lens and an eyepiece. Stereo microscopes show object depth in a three-dimensional image. Digital microscopes are used to display an image on a monitor, rather than looking through a lens. Microscopes can have monocular (one), binocular (two), or trinocular (three) eyepieces, with varying viewing abilities. A trinocular eyepiece is used to output digital images to an internal or external device such as a camera or monitor. Magnification ability refers to the size of an image. Resolution, also known as resolvant power, refers to the clarity of the image. The interaction between field of view (FOV), numerical aperture (NA), and working distance (WD) determines resolution. Microscopes can control magnification through a fixed focus, or through a range of adjustments. They can also use LED, fluorescent, and mirror light sources to help control viewing capabilities. Microscopes are widely used in education, lab research, biology, metallurgy, engineering, chemistry, manufacturing, and in the medical, forensic science, and veterinary industries.

Vee Gee Scientific manufactures laboratory equipment and supplies, and makes the VanGuard brand of products. The company, founded in 1981 and headquartered in Kirkland, WA, offers scientific equipment for educational, research, clinical, and industrial applications.

What’s in the Box?

• 1423PHi microscope
• Blue filter
• Clear diffusing filter
• Spare 20-watt lamp
• Spare 0.50A, 250V fuse
• Six-foot power cord
• Dust cover
• Instructions