Optical Microscopy Course Educational Kit
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/Images/GuideImages/11630_OpticalMicroscopyKit_2.jpg)
- Designed for Education, Demonstration, and Classroom Use
- Easy-to-Use Kits Include Components Plus Free Educational Materials
Includes Comprehensive Course Materials for Students and Instructors
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Optical Microscopy Course Educational Kit
- Designed for Educational, Demonstration, and Classroom Use
- Complete Kit Includes All Necessary Hardware Except Computer
- Extensive Manual, Lab Notes, Course Notes, and Instructor Notes Guide Students and Teachers Through Full Quarter- or Semester-Long Course
- Choose from Educational Kits Containing Imperial or Metric Components
Topics Covered
- Optical Imaging Basics
- Köhler Illumination
- Abbe Theory of Image Formation
- Contrast Methods
- Fluorescence Microscopy
- Spectra and Filters
The Optical Microscopy Course Kit contains components, documentation, and software for a full undergraduate course in optical microscopy. During the course, students build and operate a modular microscope in order to learn about image formation, resolution, aberrations, conjugate planes, and more. The course also introduces students to several imaging techniques such as darkfield, phase contrast, and fluorescence microscopy.
Extensive teaching materials are provided with this kit, including: Lab Notes, which guide students through procedures and exercises with the equipment; Course Notes, which detail the underlying scientific principles; and Instructor Notes, which provide useful tips for administering the course.
Thorlabs Educational Products
Thorlabs' line of educational products aims to promote physics, optics, and photonics by covering many classic experiments, as well as emerging fields of research. Each educational kit includes all the necessary components and a manual that contains both detailed setup instructions and extensive teaching materials. These kits are being offered at the price of the included components, with the educational materials offered for free. Technical support from our educational team is available both before and after purchase.
About the Kit
Thorlabs' Optical Microscopy Course Educational Kit takes students through a quarter- or semester-long microscopy course covering optical properties, imaging techniques, and microscope design. It includes a modular, open optical rail upon which students assemble and align an infinite-conjugates microscope.
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/tabimages/OMC_ResolutionTarget-300.jpg)
Click for Details
Resolution Target Included with EDU-OMC1(/M) Kit
Optics
The students assemble the microscope components on the rail, gaining hands-on experience regarding the importance of position and alignment. The critical optics include:
- Plano-Convex Collector Lens, f = 35 mm
- Achromatic Condenser Lens, f = 50 mm
- Achromatic Objective Lens, f = 25 mm
- Achromatic Tube Lens, f = 150 mm
A custom resolution target is provided for teaching Abbe theory and Fourier optics. The features on the target are chrome coated and include a Siemens star, Ronchi rulings, USAF 1951 and NBS 1963A bar sets, interdigitated lines, postitive- and negative-mask holes, a distortion grid, and concentric circles.
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/tabimages/OMC_Microscope_Schematic_D1-450.gif)
Click to Enlarge
Schematic of All Critical Microscope Components for Köhler Illumination
Digital Imaging
The students use two cameras during the course: a monochrome camera for imaging the sample and a color camera for imaging the objective back focal plane. The cameras were chosen such that image sampling is above the Nyquist frequency when using the objective lenses in this kit. See the Specs tab for details on these cameras.
Illumination
Once the students build sufficient understanding of fundamental optical properties, they set up Köhler illumination; the layout is illustrated in the image to the right. The students use this setup for the majority of the course to investigate coherent and incoherent illumination, aberrations, and the effects of exposure and gain settings on the quality of the final image, especially on image contrast and resolution. This setup is ideal for teaching the Abbe theory of image formation, a central element of the course.
Imaging Modes
The kit primarily uses brightfield imaging. In the later labs of the course, students investigate darkfield, phase contrast, and fluorescence microscopy. Optics are provided to enable these lessons, including a zero-order blocking mask, a Nikon 10X phase contrast objective, and a set of fluorescent calibration microscope slides. Note that the kit is designed for educational purposes and not for scientific use in any of these imaging modes without substantial modifications to the assembly.
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/tabimages/OMC_Kohler_A2-300.jpg)
Click to Enlarge
Köhler Illumination Configuration using EDU-OMC1(/M) Kit
Topics Covered
The students engage in weekly lab sessions where they gain experience using different imaging methods. A summary of the main topics covered in the course is provided below.
Optical Imaging Basics
Students begin by learning the basics of light waves, optics, and imaging. They become familiar with wave properties and the behavior of light, giving them an understanding of diffraction, image formation, resolution, and aberrations. The lab sections guide students as they set up a digital camera and spectrometer to measure the focal length of a lens, spectra of several light sources, and resolution of the system. From the beginning, the course emphasizes safe handling procedures for delicate equipment, as well as proper documentation for lab write-ups.
Köhler Illumination
The kit then leads students through the setup of controlled Köhler illumination to provide bright, uniform illumination to the sample. The students examine how each component in the system can be adjusted to alter the resulting image, including the angle of illumination and the numerical aperture of the objective. They also learn about conjugate planes and where images form within the microscope system.
![]() Click to Enlarge |
![]() Click to Enlarge |
Left: 150 lp/mm Test Target Grid Pattern; Right: Corresponding Diffraction Pattern in the Objective Back Focal Plane. As part of the lab on Abbe theory, students spatially filter diffraction patterns in the back focal plane in order to modify the resulting image. |
Abbe Theory of Image Formation
Making use of two cameras, the students observe both the sample plane and the objective back focal plane at the same time. Abbe theory draws from Fourier optics and explains how manipulation of the diffracted orders in the back focal plane impacts the resulting image of the sample. These exercises lead the students into an exploration of different contrast methods.
Contrast Methods
The students deepen their understanding of Abbe theory and the modulation transfer function, as well as the effects of coherent versus incoherent illumination. They also build on their experience manipulating the diffracted orders of light in the back focal plane to set up darkfield and phase contrast imaging and use them to image transparent objects. These experiments allow students to gain more familiarity with conjugate planes, consider resolution and contrast in more detail, and develop intuition about how image information is distributed in the back focal plane of the objective.
Fluorescence Microscopy
Students learn about fluorescence imaging, an immensely important tool in modern biology. They gain familiarity with the nature of fluorescence excitation and emission, and use appropriate interference filters to implement fluorescence imaging and investigate different samples.
Spectra and Filters
The final lesson provides a deeper exploration of spectra. Students continue working with spectrometers, examining the behavior of different types of filters and the limitations of interference filters. This section also includes a detailed, spreadsheet-based problem set in which students learn the highly practical skill of choosing quantitatively the optimal filters for imaging with a given fluorophore, camera, and light source.
![]() Click to Enlarge |
![]() Click to Enlarge |
Left: Brightfield Image of Cellulose Paper Fibers; Right: Fluorescence Image of the Same Fibers, Stained with Rhodamine-Type Fluorescent Dye from a Standard Highlighter. Students prepare their own samples for fluorescence imaging as well as phase contrast imaging using items provided in the EDU-OMC1(/M) kit. |
Note: The labs require a computer, which is not included with the kit. See the table below and the Software tab for PC requirements and information on the applications used during the course.
PC Requirementsa,b | |
---|---|
Operating System | Windows® 7, 10, or 11 |
USB Ports | Recommended Two USB 3.0 and Two USB 2.0, or Four USB 2.0c |
Monitor Size | Recommended 24" or Larger |
QTH10(/M) Lamp Specifications | |
---|---|
Bulb Type | Quartz Tungsten-Halogen |
Optical Output Powera | 50 mW (Typical) |
Bulb Type | Quartz Tungsten-Halogen Bulbb |
Color Temperature | 2800 K (Typical)c |
Lifetime | 2000 Hours |
Bulb Voltage | 12 VDC |
Bulb Power | 10 W |
Bulb Socket | G4 2-Pin Baseb |
Included Power Supply | Input: 90 - 264 VAC, 50 - 60 Hz Output: 12 VDC |
Camera Specificationsa | ||
---|---|---|
Item # | CS165MU(/M) | CS165CU(/M) |
CMOS Sensor Type | Monochrome CMOS | Color CMOS |
Peak Quantum Efficienty | 69% at 575 nm![]() Click for Graph |
65% at 535 nm![]() Click for Graph |
Removable Optic | AR-Coated Window, Ravg < 0.5% per Surface (400 - 700 nm) |
IR Blocking Filter |
Number of Active Pixels (Horizontal x Vertical) |
1440 x 1080 | |
Imaging Area (Horizontal x Vertical) |
4.968 mm x 3.726 mm | |
Pixel Size | 3.45 µm x 3.45 µm | |
Optical Format | 1/2.9" (6.2 mm Diagonal) | |
ADCb Resolution | 10 Bits | |
Sensor Shutter Type | Global | |
Read Noise | <4.0 e- RMS | |
Full Well Capacity | ≥11 000 e- | |
Exposure Time | 0.040 ms to 26843 ms in ~0.025 ms Increments |
|
Region of Interest (ROI) | 80 x 4 Pixelsc to 1440 x 1080 Pixels, Rectangular | |
Dynamic Range | Up to 69 dB | |
Lens Mount | SM1 (1.035"-40) Threading; SM1A10 CS-Mount Adapter and SM1A10Z C-Mount Adapter |
LED Specificationsa | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Item # | Center Wavelength | Spectral FWHM | Optical Power | Max Forward Currentb |
LED405E | 405 nm | 15 | 10 mW (at 20 mA) | 30 mA |
LED528EHP | 525 nm | 35 | 7.0 mW (at 20 mA) | 50 mA |
LED631E | 635 nm | 10 | 4 mW (at 20 mA) | 50 mA |
LED940E | 940 nm | 50 | 18 mW | 100 mA |
CCS200(/M) Spectrometer Specificationsa | |
---|---|
Wavelength Range | 200 - 1000 nmb,c |
FWHM Spectral Accuracy | <2 nm @ 633 nm |
S/N Ratio | ≤2000:1 |
CCD Sensitivity | 160 V / (lx · s) |
Integration Time | 10 μs - 10 sd |
Assembled Kit Physical Specifications | |
---|---|
Breadboard Dimensions | 8" x 36" (200 mm x 900 mm) |
Overall Heighta | <12" (<300 mm) |
Optical Microscopy Educational Kit Components
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/tabimages/OMC_Components_A3-1000.jpg)
Thorlabs' Optical Microscopy Course Educational Kit is available in imperial and metric versions. In cases where the metric and imperial kits contain parts with different item numbers, metric measurements are indicated in parenthesis.
Several items included with the kit are consumables, such as microscope slides and cover glass. For replacements of any consumable items below, please contact Tech Support.
Description | Qty. | ||
---|---|---|---|
Rail Assembly | |||
Aluminum Breadboard, 8" x 36" |
- | - | 1 |
Rubber Damping Feet, Set of 4 | RDF1 | 2 | |
34 mm Construction Rail, 100 mm Long | - | 1 | |
34 mm Construction Rail, 900 mm Long | - | 1 | |
Ø1" (Ø25 mm) Pedestal Post, 2" Long | RS2P | RS2P/M | 4 |
Clamping Fork with Counterbored Slot, Captive 1/4"-20 (M6) Screw | CF175C | CF175C/M | 4 |
Dovetail Mounting Clamp for 34 mm Rails | XT34HP | XT34HP/M | 6 |
Right Angle Bracket for 34 mm Rails | - | - | 1 |
Rail Carrier, 1/2" Long | XT34TR1 | XT34TR1/M | 12 |
Rail Carrier, 1" Long | XT34TR2 | XT34TR2/M | 1 |
Lamp | |||
Quartz Tungsten-Halogen Lamp | QTH10 | QTH10/M | 1 |
External SM2 to Internal SM1 Thread Adapter | SM2A6 | 1 | |
Ø25 mm BG40 Colored Glass Bandpass Filter, SM1-Threaded Mount, 335 - 610 nm | FGB37M | 1 | |
Passive Heat Sink | HSLT2 | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
SM1 Lens Tube Cap, External Threads | SM1CP2 | 1 | |
Collector and Field Stop | |||
N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø1", f = 35 mm | LA1027 | 1 | |
Lens Mount for Ø1" Optics | LMR1 | LMR1/M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Mounted Iris Diaphragm | ID25 | ID25/M | 1 |
Condenser | |||
Ø1" Unmounted Visible Achromat, f = 50 mm | AC254-050-A | 1 | |
Adjustable Ø1" Lens Tube, 0.81" Travel | SM1V10 | 1 | |
SM1 Lens Tube Clamp | SM1RC | SM1RC/M | 1 |
SM1 Lens Tube, 1" Long | SM1M10 | 1 | |
SM2 Lever-Actuated Iris Diaphragm | SM2D25 | 1 | |
External SM1 to Internal SM2 Thread Adapter | SM1A2 | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Sample Stage | |||
6.5 mm Travel Single-Axis Translation Stage | -a | MS1S/M | 1 |
XY Mount for 1" - 3" Rectangular Optics | XYF1 | XYF1/M | 1 |
XY Mount to Sample Stage Adapter | - | - | 1 |
External 1/4"-20 (M6) to External 8-32 (M4) Thread Adapter | AP8E25E | AP6M4M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø50 mm) Post, 2" (50 mm) Long | TR2 | TR50/M | 1 |
Achromatic Objective | |||
Ø1/2" Unmounted Visible Achromat, |
AC127-025-A | 1 | |
Ø1/2" Adjustable Lens Tube, 0.3" Travel | SM05V05 | 1 | |
Ø1/2" Lens Tube, 1/2" Long | SM05M05 | 1 | |
SM05 Lens Tube Slip Ring | SM05RC | SM05RC/M | 1 |
External SM05 to Internal SM1 Thread Adapter | SM1A1 | 1 | |
Calibrated Ring-Activated SM1 Iris Diaphragm | SM1D12C | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø50 mm) Post, 4" (100 mm) Long | TR4 | TR100/M | 1 |
Sample Camera | |||
Zelux® 1.6 MP Monochrome CMOS Camera | CS165MU | CS165MU/M | 1 |
Ø1" Adjustable Lens Tube, 0.81" Travel | SM1V10 | 1 | |
Ø1" Lens Tube, 1/2" Long | SM1L05 | 1 | |
Ø1" Lens Tube, 1" Long | SM1L10 | 3 | |
Ø1" Lens Tube, 3" Long | SM1L30 | 1 | |
SM1 Lens Tube Slip Ring | SM1RC | SM1RC/M | 1 |
Ø1" Unmounted Visible Achromat, f = 150 mm | AC254-150-A | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Back Focal Plane Camera | |||
Zelux 1.6 MP Color CMOS Camera | CS165CU | CS165CU/M | 1 |
Ø1" Adjustable Lens Tube, 0.81" Travel | SM1V10 | 1 | |
Ø1" Lens Tube, 1" Long | SM1L10 | 1 | |
SM1 Lens Tube Slip Ring | SM1RC | SM1RC/M | 1 |
N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø1", f = 35 mm | LA1027 | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Beamsplitter | |||
Ø2" Beamsplitter, 30:70 (R:T) | EBP2 | 1 | |
Ø2" Lens Mount, SM2 Threaded, 8-32 (M4) Tap | LMR2 | LMR2/M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Spectral Filtering | |||
Ø25 mm Bandpass Filter, CWL = 520 nm | - | 1 | |
Ø1" Interference Filter, CWL = 520 nm | FBH520-40 | 1 | |
90° Flip Mount for Ø1" Optics | TRF90 | TRF90/M | 2 |
Cage Assembly Rod, 1" Long | ER1 | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Neutral Density Filter Wheel | |||
30 mm Cage Filter Wheel | CFW6 | CFW6/M | 1 |
Ø1" ND Filter, OD = 0.5 | ND05B | 1 | |
Ø1" ND Filter, OD = 1.0 | ND10B | 1 | |
Ø1" ND Filter, OD = 1.3 | ND13B | 1 | |
Ø1" ND Filter, OD = 2.0 | ND20B | 1 | |
Ø1" ND Filter, OD = 3.0 | ND30B | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Description | Qty. | ||
---|---|---|---|
Plano-Convex Objective | |||
N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø1", f = 25.4 mm | LA1951 | 1 | |
Lens Mount for Ø1" Optics | LMR1 | LMR1/M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Extra-Thick SM1-Threaded Retaining Ring | SM1RRC | 1 | |
LED Illumination | |||
405 nm Epoxy-Encased LED | LED405E | 2 | |
525 nm Epoxy-Encased LED, Pack of 5 | LED528EHP | 1 | |
631 nm Epoxy-Encased LED | LED631Ea | 2 | |
940 nm Epoxy-Encased LED, Pack of 5 | LED940E | 1 | |
USB-Powered LED Mount, 51 Ω Resistor | LEDMT1E | 3 | |
USB-Powered LED Mount, 62 Ω Resistor | LEDMT1F | 1 | |
Ø1/2" Fixed Lens Mount with No Retaining Lip | SMR05 | SMR05/M | 4 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 4" (100 mm) Long | TR4 | TR100/M | 4 |
Diffuser | |||
SM1 Lens Tube Slip Ring | SM1RC | SM1RC/M | 1 |
Scotch Tape Dispenser | - | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Filter Mount | |||
Filter Holder | FH2 | 1 | |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Zero-Order Blocking Mask | |||
Ø1" Zero-Order Blocking Mask, Ø1.25 mm Dot | - | 1 | |
Ø1" Lens Tube, 0.3" Long | SM1L03 | 1 | |
Fluorescence Emission Filter | |||
Longpass Filter, 550 nm Cutoff Wavelength | FELH0550 | 1 | |
Ø1" Lens Tube, 1/2" Long | SM1L05 | 1 | |
SM1 End Cap with Internal Threads | SM1CP1 | 1 | |
Longpass Filter | |||
Ø1" Absorptive Filter, 780 nm Cutoff Wavelength | FGL780M | 1 | |
Lens Mount for Ø1" Optics | LMR1 | LMR1/M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Fiber Mount | |||
SMA Fiber Adapter Plate, External SM1 Threads | SM1SMA | 1 | |
Ø1" Fixed Lens Mount with No Retaining Lip | SMR1 | SMR1/M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Polarization | |||
Linear Polarizer Film | - | 1 | |
Lens Mount for Ø1" Optics | LMR1 | LMR1/M | 1 |
Ø1" Lens Tube, 0.3" Long | SM1L03 | 1 | |
Ø1" Rotating Polarizer Mount | RSP1D | RSP1D/M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 2 |
Nikon Objective | |||
10X Nikon Phase Contrast Objective | N10X-PHE | 1 | |
External SM1 to Internal M25 Thread Adapter | SM1A12 | 1 | |
Lens Mount for Ø1" Optics | LMR1 | LMR1/M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 3" (75 mm) Long | TR3 | TR75/M | 1 |
Multipurpose Mount | |||
Mounting Base, 1" x 3" x 3/8" | BA1 | BA1/M | 1 |
Ø1/2" (Ø12.7 mm) Post, 4" (100 mm) Long | TR4 | TR100/M | 1 |
General Tools | |||
Compact Spectrometer for 200 - 1000 nm | CCS200 | CCS200/M | 1 |
Snap-On Plastic Dust Cap for SM1 Lens Tubes, Pack of 5 | SM1EC2B | 1 | |
N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø30 mm, f = 75 mm | LA1765 | 1 | |
N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø30 mm, f = 100 mm | LA1031 | 1 | |
SM05 Spanner Wrench, 1" Long | SPW603 | 1 | |
SM1 Spanner Wrench, 3.88" Long | SPW602 | 1 | |
Lens Tissues, 25 Sheets per Booklet, 5 Booklets | MC-5 | 1 | |
Slip-On Post Collar for Ø1/2" Posts, Pack of 5 | R2T | 2 | |
72" USB 2.0 Type A High-Speed Extension Cable | USB-C-72 | 1 | |
Microscope Slides, 1 mm Thick, Pack of 200 | MS10UW2 | 1 | |
Cover Glass, #0 Thickness, Pack of 200 | CG00C2 | 1 | |
Microscopy Samples | |||
Resolution Test Target | - | 1 | |
Portraits of Ernst Abbe (Set of 3) | - | 1 | |
Plankton Sample (7073d) | - | 1 | |
Diatoms Sample (Ag123c) | - | 1 | |
H&E Stained Histology Slides: #317120, #317798, #318090, #316542 | - | 1 | |
Fluorescent Microspheres Kit | - | 1 | |
Plastic Fluorescence Slides, Set of 5 | FSK5 | 1 | |
Accessories | |||
Clear Nail Polish | - | 1 | |
Aluminum Foil | - | 1 | |
Adhesive Printed Labels | - | 1 | |
Highlighter, Multicolor Pack of 4 | - | 1 | |
LED Overhead Light | - | 1 | |
LED Flashlight | - | 1 | |
Flexible Ruler | - | 1 | |
USB Stick with Digital Kit Documentation | - | 1 | |
Spectral Filter Booklet | - | 1 | |
Black Rubber Dust Caps, Pack of 10 | CAPM | 1 | |
Screw-On Cable Straps, Pack of 15 | CS1 | 1 | |
Storage | |||
Benchtop Organizer | - | 1 | |
25 Slide Holder | - | 1 | |
Plastic Bin | - | 1 |
Imperial Hardware Kit
Item #a | Description | Qty.b | Placement |
---|---|---|---|
BD-KIT | Balldriver Kit | 1 | - |
3/16" Hex Key Thumbscrews, Pack of 4 | 1 | - | |
SH25S050 | 1/4"-20 Cap Screw, 1/2" Long | 8 | RDF1 Breadboard Feet |
SH25S038 | 1/4"-20 Cap Screw, 3/8" Long | 5 | XT34HP Dovetail Mount to RS2P Post (4) and TR4 Post to BA1 Mounting Base (1) |
- | 1/4"-20 Cap Screw, 5/16" Long | 4 | XT34HP Dovetail Mount to Right-Angle Rail Mount |
SH25S025 | 1/4"-20 Cap Screw, 1/4" Long | 6 | CS1 Strain Relief + Washers |
SH8S075 | 8-32 Cap Screw, 3/4" Long | 1 (1) | Adapter to XYF1 Translation Mount |
SH8S050 | 8-32 Cap Screw, 1/2" Long | 2 | Adapter to MS1S Stage |
SH8S038 | 8-32 Cap Screw, 3/8" Long | (2) | SM1RC Lens Tube Clamp |
SS25S050 | 1/4"-20 Setscrew, 1/2" Long | 1 | CFW6 Filter Wheel |
- | Thumbscrew | 12 | R2T Slip-On Post Collar |
- | 8-32 Setscrew, 1/4" Long | (2) | HKTS-3/16 Hex Key Thumbscrewc |
- | 8-32 Nylon-Tipped Setscrew, |
(2) | Setscrews in XYF1 Translation Mount |
W25S050 | Washer for 1/4" Cap Screw | 6 | CS1 Strain Relief |
Metric Hardware Kit
Item #a | Description | Qty.b | Placement |
---|---|---|---|
BD-KIT/M | Balldriver Kit | 1 | - |
5 mm Hex Key Thumbscrews, Pack of 4 | 1 | - | |
SH6MS12 | M6 Cap Screw, 12 mm Long | 8 | RDF1 Breadboard Feet |
SH6MS10 | M6 Cap Screw, 10 mm Long | 5 | XT34HP Dovetail Mount to RS2P Post (4) and TR4 Post to BA1 Mounting Base (1) |
- | M6 Cap Screw, 8 mm Long | 4 | XT34HP Dovetail Mount to Right-Angle Rail Mount |
SH6MS06 | M6 Cap Screw, 6 mm Long | 6 | CS1 Strain Relief + Washers |
SH4MS20 | M4 Cap Screw, 20 mm Long | 1 (1) | Adapter to XYF1 Translation Mount |
SH4MS12 | M4 Cap Screw, 12 mm Long | 2 | Adapter to MS1S/M Stage |
SH4MS10 | M4 Cap Screw, 10 mm Long | (2) | SM1RC Lens Tube Clamp |
SS6MS12 | M6 Setscrew, 12 mm Long | 1 | CFW6 Filter Wheel |
- | Thumbscrew | 12 | R2T Slip-On Post Collar |
- | 8-32 Setscrew, 1/4" Long | (2) | HKTS-5M Hex Key Thumbscrewc |
- | 8-32 Nylon-Tipped Setscrew, |
(2) | Setscrews in XYF1 Translation Mount |
W25S050 | Washer for M6 Cap Screw | 6 | CS1 Strain Relief |
Instructional Videos for EDU-OMC1
Assembly
The Assembly video covers several important steps for setting up the rail-based microscope system, including:
- Aligning Critical Optical Components to the Height of the Sample Camera
- Fine Focus Adjustment for the Condenser Lens and Achromatic Objective Lens
- Recommended Order for Placing Components on the Rail
Köhler Illumination
This video follows the Assembly video and shows how to achieve Köhler Illumination in three steps:
- Focus on the Sample
- Image the Field Stop onto of the Sample
- Image the Lamp Filament onto the Aperture Stop
Back Focal Plane and Darkfield
This video follows the Köhler Illumination video and introduces a second camera for imaging the back focal plane of the objective. It demonstrates how to:
- Align the Beamsplitter and Color Camera on the Rail
- Position the Camera to Focus on the Aperture Stop and Lamp Filament
The video also shows how to achieve a darkfield image by:
- Inserting the Zero-Order Mask at the Objective Back Focal Plane (BFP)
- Aligning the Mask to the Optical Axis
- Blocking Central Illumination to Capture Only Light Scattered by the Sample
Click Here to Download the Back Focal Plane and Darkfield Transcript
Abbe's Experiments by Dr. Peter Evennett
(Click the numbered links or the three horizontal bars to see all videos in the playlist.)
- Introduction
- Resolution and the Objective Aperture
- Resolution and Wavelength
- Interference of Two Beams
- Interference and Coherence of Beams
- Darkfield Images
- Phase Contrast Technique
- Building an Image from the Diffraction Pattern
- A Journey Through the Microscope
Software Quick Start Guides
These videos provide brief tutorials for the Thorlabs software used during the course.
If using the previous generation CMOS cameras (DCC1545 or DCC1645), see this video.
Links to sources referenced in the Lab Notes, Course Notes, and Instructor Notes can be found here. Please help us maintain this section by reporting missing or broken links on the Feedback tab, where you can also post technical questions or user comments about this kit.
Lab | Lab Notes Links | Course Notes Links | Instructor Notes Links |
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1 | - | ||
2 | - | ||
3 | - | ||
4 | - | - | |
5 | - | ||
6 |
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7 | |||
8 | - | ||
9 | - | ||
10 | Handbooks
Spectra Viewer Tools
Sources of Complete Dye and Light Source Spectra
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Appendices | - | Software Microscopy Websites General Optics Resources |
Click on the images below to download the course materials.
*Note: An abridged version of the Instructor Notes is available for download. The full version is included on the USB stick shipped with the kit or available by contacting Tech Support.
ThorCam is a powerful image acquisition software package that is designed for use with our cameras on 32- and 64-bit Windows® 7, 10, or 11 systems. This intuitive, easy-to-use graphical interface provides camera control as well as the ability to acquire and play back images. Single image capture and image sequences are supported. Application programming interfaces (APIs) and a software development kit (SDK) are included for the development of custom applications by OEMs and developers. The SDK provides easy integration with a wide variety of programming languages, such as C, C++, C#, and Visual Basic .NET. Support for third-party software packages, such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, µManager, and MetaMorph, is available.
See the Videos tab for a quick guide to the ThorCam software.
![ThorCam Camera Software](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/TabImages/Scientific_Camera_Software_A2-370.jpg)
Click to Enlarge
ThorCam Graphical User Interface
CCS Spectrometer Software
Version 2.9
The OSA application package is used to control Thorlabs' CCS Series Spectrometers.
Thorlabs' CCS Series Spectrometers are controlled by our Optical Spectrum Analyzer (OSA) software package. In addition to the software package, a Communications Protocol manual is also available to provide a guide for writing custom applications to control the spectrometers. Please note that this software package is not compatible with Windows XP; for more information about using a spectrometer with Windows® XP, please contact Tech Support.
See the Videos tab for a quick guide to the OSA spectrometer software.
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/tabimages/OSA_H2O_Absorbance_A1-400.png)
Click to Enlarge
OSA Graphical User Interface
Other Software
The course also uses ImageJ, which can be downloaded here, and the Slanted Edge MTF plugin, which can be downloaded here.
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/tabimages/OMC_Enclosure_Open_A1-350.jpg)
Click to Enlarge
This optional enclosure is designed to fit conveniently around the fully assembled microscope system.
Optional Enclosure for EDU-OMC1(/M) Kit
To aid in storing the kit and protecting components when not in use, an optical enclosure that can be assembled around the kit when it is already set up can be purchased by contacting Tech Support. Multiple enclosures can be stacked on top of one another, provided the top panel is attached using low-profile cap screws. For the complete list of the enclosure components, see the table to the lower right.
To request an enclosure for the EDU-OMC1(/M), contact Tech Support.
Enclosure Parts List | ||
---|---|---|
Description | Item # | Qty. |
Long Side Panel | - | 2 |
Short Side Panel | - | 2 |
Top Panel | - | 1 |
25 mm Construction Rail, 9" (225 mm) Long | XE25L09 (XE25L225/M) |
4 |
Slim Right-Angle Bracket | AB90H | 4 |
Low-Profile T-Nut, 1/4"-20 (M6) | XE25T3a (XE25T3/M)a |
20 |
3/16" (5 mm) Balldriver | BD-3/16L (BD-5ML) |
1 |
1/4"-20 (M6) Low-Profile Screws | SH25LP38b (SH6M10LP)b |
4 |
1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws, 3/8" (10 mm) Long |
SH25S038b (SH6MS10)b |
16 |
1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws, 5/8" (16 mm) Long |
SH25S063b (SH6MS16)b |
8 |
1/4" (M6) Washers | W25S050c | 28 |
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/tabimages/DanFletcher.jpg)
Daniel Fletcher, Ph.D.
![](https://www.thorlabs.de/images/tabimages/NeilSwitz.jpg)
Neil Switz, Ph.D.
This kit grew out of the Practical Optical Microscopy course developed at the University of California, Berkeley by Neil Switz and Daniel Fletcher. We cordially thank them for making their class materials freely available to the optics community, and for their extensive collaboration in developing this kit. Their contributions have helped facilitate and simplify the provision of rich laboratory experiences in the undergraduate optics curriculum.
Neil Switz received his Ph.D. in biophysics from UC Berkeley. He has industry experience engineering medical gas monitoring systems and starting a publicly listed microfluidics and fluorescence imaging-based biotechnology company. Neil has won multiple awards for teaching, and is now on the physics faculty at San José State University.
Dan Fletcher received his D.Phil. from Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar, and a Ph.D. from Stanford University. He is now Chair in the Department of Bioengineering at UC Berkeley and continues to teach courses on optics, microscopy, and cell mechanics. He and his laboratory perform research on the membrane and cytoskeletal structures that animate cell movements.
Do you have ideas for an experiment that you would like to see implemented in an educational kit? Contact us at techsupport@thorlabs.com; we'd love to hear your ideas.
Posted Comments: | |
Yinsheng Guo
 (posted 2020-01-13 17:05:16.663) Hi,
I am an assistant professor at University of Nebraska Lincoln, starting my group and lab in the chemistry department. I am interested in the microscopy kit EDU-OMC1. Here are a few questions:
1. Is it eligible for the New Lab Discount? (customer account number: 258600)
2. Is it possible to customize the kit components? For instance, a) use colored cameras for both locations, b) remove the CCS200 spectrometer.
Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you.
Best,
Yinsheng nreusch
 (posted 2020-01-15 06:31:07.0) This is a response from Nicola at Thorlabs. Thank you for contacting us. Yes, we can offer customized kit versions. A local sales representative will contact you with further information about this customization and our New Lab Discount. |