Nikon Ts2 Tissue Culture Microscope — Pro Tips
Read the Edited Video Transcript for ‘Nikon Ts2 Tissue Culture Microscope — Pro Tips’
Hey, this is Chad with Munday Scientific and Microscope Marketplace. Today we’re going to talk about the Nikon TS2 tissue culture microscope. This is an excellent microscope commonly used for tissue culture applications.
Michael is going to help us walk through the scope and highlight some important features, as well as answer some of the most common questions we receive from customers.
Understanding the Power Switch
One of the most common questions we receive about the Nikon TS2 involves the power switch.
If you sit down and press the power button on the front of the microscope, you might notice that no light appears. Many people assume something is wrong with the microscope at this point.
However, the Nikon TS2 actually has two power controls. The main power switch is located on the back of the microscope. This switch must be turned on first. When it is on, the power indicator light will illuminate, confirming that the microscope is receiving power.
Once the rear switch is on, pressing the button on the front of the microscope will activate the illumination.
Many users overlook the rear power switch, especially in shared lab environments. If it’s turned off, the microscope will appear unresponsive even though nothing is actually wrong.
Brightness Control (Rheostat)
Another common issue involves the brightness control, also known as the rheostat.
This knob adjusts the intensity of the LED light source. If the control is turned all the way down, no light will pass through the microscope.
If you’re not seeing illumination, make sure that:
- The rear power switch is turned on
- The front power button is activated
- The brightness control is turned up
Often, simply adjusting the brightness control resolves the issue.
LED Light Source and Condenser
The Nikon TS2 uses an LED light source, which provides bright, stable illumination and requires very little maintenance.
Below the stage is the condenser, which directs light toward the specimen. This condenser also includes a phase sliderused for phase contrast microscopy.
Phase Contrast Slider
The phase slider includes several preset positions:
- A phase ring for 4× objectives
- A phase ring for 10×, 20×, and 40× objectives
- An open position for brightfield imaging
The open slot can also be used to insert optical filters.
For example:
- A green filter is commonly used for phase contrast and tissue culture work
- A blue filter may be used with halogen illumination systems
Because this microscope uses LED illumination, a blue filter is generally unnecessary, although some users still prefer it.
When you move the phase slider into place, it clicks into position, ensuring that the phase rings are properly aligned.
Condenser Diaphragm
The condenser also includes an aperture diaphragm, which controls the amount of light entering the optical system.
If you close the diaphragm completely, very little light will pass through the microscope. Opening it allows more light to reach the specimen.
Adjusting the diaphragm can help improve contrast and image quality.
If you’re not seeing enough light through the microscope, check to make sure the diaphragm is not closed too much.
Removing and Cleaning the Condenser
The condenser can be removed using the thumb screw located on the side.
When removed, you can see how the diaphragm opens and closes, creating an adjustable circular opening.
If dust or debris enters this area, you can remove the condenser and use compressed air to clean it. Avoid inserting objects like Q-tips into the optical components, as this can cause damage or make contamination worse.
To reinstall the condenser, align the mounting knobs with the dovetail mount and lock it back into place.
Eyepieces
The Nikon TS2 includes two 10× eyepieces with a 22 mm field of view.
Both eyepieces feature diopter adjustments, allowing each user to fine-tune focus for their own eyesight.
To start, align the zero mark on each eyepiece with the reference line. This setting corresponds to 20/20 vision. From there, you can adjust each eyepiece slightly to match your visual preference.
Stage Insert
The microscope includes a stage insert, which sits inside the stage opening.
Different types of inserts are available depending on the application. The one shown here is a plastic insert, which works well for many tissue culture tasks.
This insert includes a small retaining screw that should be kept in the down position. It also clicks into place, ensuring proper alignment.
Be careful not to focus the microscope too high when rotating objectives, as the objective lens could contact the stage insert.
Mechanical Stage
This microscope features a right-handed coaxial mechanical stage, allowing smooth movement of the specimen.
Various specimen holders or plate holders can be attached depending on your workflow.
The mechanical stage can also be removed if needed. It is secured underneath the stage with two 2.5 mm Allen screws—one on the side and one toward the back.
For basic tissue culture work, where you’re simply placing a well plate on the stage, the mechanical stage may not always be necessary. However, it provides additional control for precise specimen positioning.
Focus Controls and Tension Adjustment
The Nikon TS2 includes both coarse and fine focus controls for precise focusing.
There is also a focus tension adjustment knob, located as the inner ring around the focus control.
This adjustment increases or decreases the resistance of the focus movement. If the stage drifts downward over time, tightening the tension knob will stabilize it.
Optional Camera Port
Another useful feature is the option to add a camera port.
Nikon offers an optional camera adapter that mounts here on the microscope. To install it, you remove the existing screws, attach the camera port, and secure it in place.
This allows users to capture images or record video of their cell cultures, which is a common requirement in many laboratories.
Adding a camera port will increase the price slightly, but it is a valuable upgrade for documentation and research.
Pricing and Availability
The Nikon TS2 is a durable, reliable, and affordable tissue culture microscope. We sell many of these because they are well-suited for laboratory environments.
Depending on the configuration and options, the typical price is around $3,500, although it may vary slightly.
Where to Buy
If you’re interested in purchasing this microscope or other tissue culture microscopes, you can visit microscopemarketplace.com.
Contact Information
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Closing
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