Inspection microscopes are manufactured in such a way that they can be calibrated and configured to meet the specific needs of their users. Every make of microscope requires a different set of configuration protocol. But generally, all users have to do is to turn some knobs, adjust some controls, all to make the image much clearer.

The first step to configuring microscopes is to make sure that the instrument has all the needed components present. It should also be free of dirt, dust, and other debris. The objective lenses, eyepiece, and condenser lens should be very clean. It should have no scratches at all or any foreign materials blocking the pathway. All the basic maintenance steps should be performed prior to the configuration of an inspection microscope.

The make and the brand of the inspection microscopes is not the only thing that should be considered when calibrating microscopes. The actual use and principle to use the microscope with is going to be a factor as well. In some special applications, the use of polarizers is required. And it is positioned only after the device is fully calibrated for regular use.

One would know if the microscope is calibrated the right way when the image produced is precisely what the observer wants. Some inspection microscopes are too complex it has the ability to produce images in different lights, colors, and backgrounds. Such is the case with a bright field microscope that can double as a dark field microscope with a simple flick of a button.

As a general rule, configure the inspection microscope using the objective with the lowest power. It doesn’t matter if you have a low power microscope or a high power microscope. Just start with the lowest objective and you should be all set. For a low power microscope, use the 1x objective with the 10x eyepiece. If what you have is a high power microscope, start with the 10x objective, also using the 10x eyepiece.

Once this is done, you can now use the adjustment knobs. Use the coarse focus knob first. Then refine the image produced with the fine focus knob. Always follow this sequence when calibrating inspection microscopes. This is important to achieve the best quality image possible.

The next thing to do is to focus the light from the condenser. This step is essential if you are using an inspection microscope that uses the traditional lighting system. If it is equipped with a mirror, turn its flat side towards the source of light. This way, the light will be reflected towards the condenser and into the specimen. Adjust the condenser at about 2 millimeters below the microscope’s stage. It is best to adjust the diaphragm until it’s half open. This would allow adequate light to pass through the sample to be viewed.

To properly focus the microscope’s field iris, use a reference point. For this, use the edges of microscope’s field iris. However, under normal conditions, the edges cannot be seen easily. Bring it into view by closing the field iris.
After this, use the centering screws that are located on the condenser. These screws are used so that the image is moved towards the middle part of the field view. At this point, the field iris can now be opened so that more adjustments can be made.

When all the centering is achieved, focusing is the next step. Enjoy a sharper image by opening the aperture iris. Open the aperture iris by removing one eyepiece, as well as the focal plane of the instrument on the back part. When there’s a spot of light in the field view, then the condenser iris is open. Otherwise, there won’t be light passing through. It is best to open the iris fully to achieve a good image.

At this point, adjust the lighting of the microscope accordingly. If the light proves to be too bright, look for the control that dims it a little. The diaphragm can also be adjusted so that the glare is reduced. Racking the condenser down also affects the angles of the light. Put it on optimum position all the time so that there’s no need to change it every now and then.

These are the steps on how you can configure an inspection microscope. Inspection microscopes are big complex microscopes that are mostly used by professionals. These steps should be easy for the to follow. However, beginners would find these steps helpful in their future encounters with these types of microscope.

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