Olympus BX45 Basics Demonstration
Read the Edited Video Transcript for ‘Olympus BX45 Basics Demonstration’
Hey, this is Chad with Munday Scientific. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at the Olympus BX45 microscope.
The BX45 is a very popular microscope, and we’ve had quite a few of them going out the door recently. We’re going to walk through the configuration of this particular system and show you a few quick tips that may help you get the most out of your microscope.
Built-In 3 mm Allen Wrench
One convenient feature of the Olympus BX Series microscopes is the built-in 3 mm Allen wrench.
The wrench is stored on the microscope stand and can be used for most of the adjustments and procedures we’ll demonstrate. If the original wrench is missing from your microscope, any standard 3 mm Allen wrench should work.
Microscope Head Options
This particular BX45 is currently equipped with a trinocular head, but there are several head configurations available for this microscope.
Depending on your application, you could use:
- A standard fixed binocular head
- A trinocular head
- A black tilting head
- A tilting and telescoping ergonomic head
The customer receiving this particular microscope selected the tilting and telescoping head, so we’ll install that configuration.
The head locks onto the microscope using the retaining screw. Once installed, the telescoping design allows you to move the eyepieces forward or backward to create a more comfortable viewing position.
This can be particularly useful when you want to sit farther back from your desk or workstation.
Fixed Nosepiece Design
On the Olympus BX45, the nosepiece is fixed and travels vertically as you adjust the microscope’s focus.
The nosepiece also includes a dust plug that can be removed if you need to install an analyzer.
The BX45 can be configured with either a five-position or six-position nosepiece. If you need to convert to a six-position nosepiece, we recommend having an authorized microscope service technician perform the change.
Removing the Stage
Before removing the stage, raise the nosepiece completely and make sure the objectives are safely out of the way.
This is important because you don’t want to accidentally hit or damage an objective while lifting the stage off the microscope.
Once you have enough clearance, carefully remove the stage and set it aside.
Condenser Top Lens
With the stage removed, we can get a better look at the condenser system.
The condenser has a top lens that swings in and out of the optical path.
When using a 2x or 1.25x objective, swing the top lens out to properly fill the field of view.
When you move to the 10x objective or higher, swing the top lens back into position.
Setting Köhler Illumination
The 10x objective is typically used when setting Köhler illumination.
The condenser has two centering controls that allow you to properly center the illumination system.
The centering keys are removable and can be threaded into the corresponding adjustment holes when needed.
We have a separate video showing the complete procedure for setting Köhler illumination on this microscope, and we’ll include a link in the video description.
Adding Phase Contrast or a Blue Filter
The condenser assembly can also be configured for additional applications.
Using the retaining screw, you can remove the condenser cassette and access the internal positions for accessories.
Depending on your application, you can install:
- Phase rings
- A daylight blue filter
Adding the appropriate phase rings allows the BX45 to be configured for phase contrast microscopy.
The daylight blue filter can be used with a halogen illumination system to reduce the naturally warm appearance of the halogen light and provide a cooler-looking field.
Adding a Polarizer and Analyzer
The BX45 can also be equipped with a polarizer and analyzer.
The polarizer installs beneath the condenser, while the analyzer is inserted into the analyzer slot near the nosepiece.
With both components installed, you can cross the polarizers for applications requiring polarized illumination.
Repositioning the Fine Focus Control
Here’s another useful adjustment that can improve the ergonomics of the microscope.
On this BX45, the extended fine focus knob is positioned on the right side. Depending on your stage configuration, this knob can interfere with the stage control.
Fortunately, the extended fine focus control can be moved to the opposite side.
First, remove the rubber cover from the focus knob. You’ll find a retaining screw underneath.
Using the same 3 mm Allen wrench, loosen the screw and remove the extended fine focus knob.
On the opposite side, there may be a small cover or sticker over the mounting hole. Carefully remove it using your fingernail, a small flathead screwdriver, or another suitable tool.
Move the extended fine focus control to that side and secure it in place. The cover can then be transferred to the unused hole on the opposite side.
Once the stage is reinstalled, you’ll notice that the stage control is much easier to operate because the extended fine focus knob is no longer interfering with it.
Light and Field Diaphragm Controls
The microscope’s illumination intensity control allows you to adjust the brightness of the light.
The field diaphragm is also located on the microscope base and is used when setting Köhler illumination.
Together with the condenser controls, these adjustments allow you to properly configure the microscope’s illumination for your specimen.
Changing the Halogen Bulb
We have another video that goes into more detail about changing the bulb, but the procedure is straightforward.
Before replacing the bulb, always turn the microscope off and disconnect it from power.
The BX45 shown here uses a 6V, 30W halogen bulb located in the lamp housing at the rear of the microscope.
Remove the lamp housing, replace the bulb, and reinstall the assembly.
Many BX Series microscopes are now being upgraded to LED illumination, but the original halogen system is still a good option. Replacement bulbs and lamp components are readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Why the Olympus BX45 Is Popular
The Olympus BX45 is an excellent microscope, particularly for pathology and cytology applications.
One of its biggest advantages is ergonomics. The low-positioned controls allow the user to rest their hands comfortably on the work surface while operating the stage and focus controls.
Combined with an ergonomic tilting and telescoping head, this makes the BX45 particularly comfortable for professionals who spend extended periods working at the microscope.
Final Thoughts
The Olympus BX45 is a versatile microscope with a wide range of configuration options.
Depending on your application, it can be equipped with different viewing heads, five- or six-position nosepieces, low-power objectives, phase contrast components, polarized illumination, and either halogen or LED lighting.
Its ergonomic design and flexible configuration make it particularly well suited for pathology, cytology, and other laboratory applications.
Contact Information
If you have any questions about the Olympus BX45 or are interested in purchasing a refurbished Olympus BX Series microscope, contact Munday Scientific.
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