How to Adjust a Microscope If It is Too Dark

by MorganO

Overview

Compound light microscopes are an invaluable piece of laboratory equipment. These popular and widely used microscopes can be found in the scientific laboratories of most high schools and institutions of higher learning. Compound light microscopes are able to magnify specimens up to 1000 times their actual size. They use visible wavelengths of light to illuminate specimens. If a microscope is too dark, you will not be able to view the specimen. Several adjustments can be made to increase the amount of light shining through the specimen.

Step 1

Make sure the microscope is plugged in and turned on. An on/off switch is located on the base of the microscope. It looks like a light switch.
Step 2

Look through the eyepiece of the microscope.
Step 3

Adjust the light dimmer adjustment dial by turning it clockwise using your fingertip. This dial is also called the lamp dimmer. This dial is usually located on the front or the side of the base of the microscope. The edge of the serrated dial protrudes from the base of the microscope.
Step 4

Open the iris diaphragm by moving the lever attached to it. To increase light, move this lever toward your left as you look through the eyepiece. The iris diaphragm is located underneath the stage (the part of the microscope on which you place the slide or specimen). It is part of the condenser, which is the lens underneath the stage.
Step 5

Raise the condenser by turning the condenser focusing knob clockwise. The condenser focusing knob is attached to the side of the microscope's stage. If you are looking through the eyepiece, the knob will be located on the left side of the microscope.

References & Resources

"Basic Microbiology Techniques;" Susan Kelley, Ph.D., & Frederick Post, Ph.D.; 2004
"Introduction to Organic Laboratory Techniques;" Donald Pavia, Ph.D., Gary Lampman, PhD., George Kriz, Ph.D., & Randall Engel, Ph.D.; 2003
"Zoology Lab Manual;" Gail Wynn, Ph.D.; 2000