Stereo microscopes, also known as dissecting and low power microscopes, are used to examine any specimen that is not mounted on a slide (although many slide mounted specimens can be observed). They are particularly useful for examining unprepared specimens that are not thin and are 'lumpy' such as insects, plants, geological specimens, fossils, industrial parts, pcbs, coins, archaeological artefacts, pond life, invertebrates, zoological specimens, embryos, forensic samples, textiles etc. Long working distance versions are ideal for working under.
You will find these different types of stereo microscopes in this catalogue:
· Single Magnification Stereo Microscopes - change magnification by changing objective cartridges and/or eyepieces (lowest cost microscopes)
· Zoom Magnification Stereo Microscopes - the most popular type of microscope where you change magnification using a zoom control knob
· Long Reach Stereo Microscopes - highly popular in industry & restoration for observing larger specimens or where a large, clear work area is required - see long reach microscopes below in all our ranges
Stereo microscopes always have two eyepieces, each eyepiece takes an image from its own objective (there are always 2 objectives). Each objective is positioned at an angle pointing at the subject. In this way a 3 dimensional image is perceived through the eyepieces, hence the term ‘stereo’
W.D. = Working Distance. This is the distance from the end of the objective lens to the point on your subject that is in focus.