The eyepiece is the part of the stereomicroscope that directly contacts the observer's eyes, and its quality and performance have a significant impact on the observation effect. Common types of eyepieces include ordinary eyepieces and high-eye-point eyepieces. Ordinary eyepieces are relatively low in price and can meet general observation needs; high-eye-point eyepieces are more suitable for users who wear glasses, allowing them to observe comfortably even with glasses on and providing a wider field of view. Eyepieces also come in different magnifications, with common ones being 10X, 15X, 20X, etc. Eyepieces with lower magnification can provide a broader field of view, suitable for observing a larger range of samples; those with higher magnification are used for more in-depth observation of sample details. In addition, there are some specially designed eyepieces, such as reticle eyepieces with scales, which can be used to measure the size of samples; "ComfortView" eyepieces with pupil aberration control and proper eye-point positioning functions ensure quick and comfortable observation and recording of samples.​

Objectives​

The objective lens is one of the core optical components of a stereomicroscope, and its function is to magnify and image the details of the sample. There are various types of objective lenses, including achromatic objectives and apochromatic objectives. Achromatic objectives can correct chromatic aberration, making the colors of the image more accurate, but the correction degree is relatively limited; apochromatic objectives can correct chromatic aberration more excellently, providing clearer images with higher color fidelity, but they are relatively more expensive. Objective lenses also have a variety of magnification options, with common ones being 0.5X, 1X, 2X, etc. Objective lenses with different magnifications are suitable for samples of different sizes and observation needs. For example, low-power objectives are suitable for observing larger samples or overall observation of samples, while high-power objectives are used for observing tiny details of samples. In addition, there are some special-purpose objective lenses, such as long working distance objectives, which are suitable for observing thicker samples or situations where operations need to be performed on the sample surface. Their working distance is longer than that of ordinary objective lenses, which can avoid collision between the objective lens and the sample.​

Auxiliary Objectives​

Auxiliary objectives are usually installed under the objective lens turret of the microscope and are used to further change the total magnification of the microscope. By using auxiliary objectives with different magnifications, the magnification range of the microscope can be flexibly adjusted without replacing the objective lens, meeting different observation needs. The magnifications of auxiliary objectives are generally 0.3X, 0.5X, 0.75X, 1.5X, 2X, etc. For example, using a 0.5X auxiliary objective with a 10X eyepiece and a 1X objective lens can reduce the total magnification of the microscope by half, thereby obtaining a wider field of view, suitable for observing larger-sized samples; while using a 2X auxiliary objective will double the total magnification, which is used for more detailed observation of sample details. The use of auxiliary objectives can also optimize the performance of the microscope to a certain extent. For example, in some cases, the use of auxiliary objectives can improve the resolution or depth of field of the image.​

Observation Tubes​

The observation tube is the part connecting the eyepiece and the objective lens, and it determines the angle and way the observer views the sample. Common observation tubes include binocular tubes and trinocular tubes. Binocular tubes can provide stereoscopic vision, allowing the observer to more intuitively feel the three-dimensional structure of the sample, and are suitable for most conventional observation scenarios. The interpupillary distance between the two eyepieces is generally adjustable to adapt to the eye spacing of different users. For example, the common interpupillary adjustment range is 55mm - 75mm, which can meet the needs of most people. Binocular tubes also have various tilt angle designs, such as 45° tilted binocular tubes. This design conforms to ergonomic principles, allowing the observer to maintain a relatively comfortable posture during long-term observation and reducing neck fatigue. Trinocular tubes, on the basis of binocular tubes, add a port for connecting cameras or other imaging devices, facilitating photographing or video recording of samples. Trinocular tubes generally have multiple optical path switching modes, such as switching between 100% observation through the eyepiece, 50% observation through the eyepiece and 50% video recording, etc., to meet the needs of different usage scenarios. In addition, there are some specially designed observation tubes, such as ergonomic binocular tubes, whose viewing angles can be adjusted within a certain range, such as 5° - 45° adjustable, allowing users to find the most comfortable observation angle and further improving observation comfort.​

Intermediate Tubes​

The intermediate tube is located between the observation tube and the microscope host, and is mainly used to realize different functions, such as light splitting and drawing. There are manual or electric intermediate imaging tubes with different splitting ratios available. Through the intermediate imaging tube, light can be distributed to realize imaging on the display while observing the sample, or simultaneous observation and shooting operations. For example, the intermediate imaging tube can have different light splitting modes such as 100% observation, 50% observation and 50% shooting. The intermediate tube for drawing has a unique function: it can project the brush onto the microscopic image, enabling the operator to see both the sample and the drawn image when drawing the sample image, thereby more accurately depicting the characteristics of the sample. The intermediate tube for drawing may also include some auxiliary functions, such as an adjustable focusing lens for matching different observation heights, and a telescopic extension arm to adapt to a wider main frame base, facilitating drawing operations under different conditions.​

Illumination Accessories​

Illumination is crucial for the observation effect of stereomicroscopes. Appropriate illumination can highlight the details of the sample and improve the contrast and clarity of the image. Common illumination accessories include reflected light illuminators and transmitted light illuminators. Reflected light illuminators are mainly used for observing opaque samples. They make the sample visible by irradiating light on the sample surface, which then reflects back into the objective lens. Reflected light illuminators have various light source types, such as halogen lamps and LED lamps. Due to their advantages of high luminous efficiency, long service life and low heat generation, LED lamps are widely used in modern stereomicroscopes. Transmitted light illuminators are used for observing transparent or translucent samples, and light enters the objective lens after passing through the sample. Transmitted light illuminators are generally installed under the stage of the microscope, and their light sources also have a variety of options, such as fluorescent lamps and LED lamps. To better control the illumination effect, some auxiliary devices may be equipped, such as variable diaphragms, which can adjust the intensity and irradiation range of light to adapt to the observation needs of different samples. In addition, there are some special illumination methods, such as ring illumination, which can provide uniform light and reduce shadows, suitable for observing samples with high surface flatness requirements; coaxial illumination can make the light coaxial with the optical axis of the objective lens, reducing interference caused by reflection and refraction, and is especially suitable for observing samples with high reflectivity or complex surface structures.​

Stages​

The stage is where the sample is placed, and its design and function affect the fixation of the sample and the convenience of observation. Common stages include fixed stages and movable stages. Fixed stages have a simple structure and are relatively low in price, suitable for some observation scenarios where the sample position does not need to be moved frequently. Movable stages can move the sample within a certain range, facilitating observation of different parts of the sample. Some movable stages also have precise scales, which can accurately record the moving distance of the sample, which is very helpful for experiments that require quantitative analysis. Stages also come in various sizes, and the appropriate size of the stage should be selected according to the size of the sample. For larger samples, a larger-sized stage is needed to ensure that the sample can be placed stably. In addition, some stages have special functions, such as height-adjustable stages, which can be used to adapt to samples of different thicknesses; stages with a tilting function can change the observation angle of the sample to better observe the three-dimensional structure of the sample.​

Focusing Mechanisms​

The focusing mechanism is used to adjust the distance between the objective lens and the sample so that the sample can be imaged clearly. Common focusing mechanisms include coarse focusing mechanisms and fine focusing mechanisms. The coarse focusing mechanism is used to quickly adjust the approximate distance between the objective lens and the sample, bringing the sample into the field of view. The fine focusing mechanism is used to precisely fine-tune the position of the objective lens on the basis of coarse focusing to obtain the clearest image. The design of the focusing mechanism should ensure the flexibility and stability of operation. For example, some focusing mechanisms adopt a combination of dovetail guides and gear racks, which can ensure that the focusing process is flexible and comfortable, stable and reliable, and avoid shaking or displacement of the objective lens during focusing. The focusing stroke is also an important parameter of the focusing mechanism. Different microscopes have different focusing strokes, generally ranging from tens of millimeters to more than one hundred millimeters. A larger focusing stroke is suitable for observing thicker samples or situations where the focal length needs to be adjusted within a larger range.​

Ergonomic Accessories​

Prolonged use of stereomicroscopes may cause certain fatigue and damage to the user's body, so the application of ergonomic accessories has received increasing attention. Common ergonomic accessories include eyepiece tubes, bases and adjustment plates designed in accordance with ergonomics. Ergonomically designed eyepiece tubes can be adjusted according to the user's sitting posture and height to reduce the distance between the microscope and the eyes, allowing users to observe more comfortably. For example, ErgoTube ergonomic eyepiece tubes are available in variable and fixed types. Variable ergonomic eyepiece tubes can adapt to various viewing angles, allowing users to freely choose the best working position; fixed ergonomic eyepiece tubes provide a fixed observation angle or length, suitable for single microscope users. Among them, the ErgoTube 10° - 50° ergonomic eyepiece tube is very suitable for multi-user workstations, as it can adjust the viewing angle within the range of 10° to 50° to meet the needs of different users. Ergonomically designed bases can also help users maintain a comfortable and natural posture. For example, the TL3000 Ergo and TL5000 Ergo transmitted light bases allow users' arms to relax and rest when operating the microscope, helping to avoid strain on shoulder muscles and tendons. The ErgoLift adjustment plate can be used to raise or lower the microscope height. Regardless of the user's height, they can adjust to the best sitting posture through these accessories, maintain a comfortable posture, thereby improving work efficiency and reducing physical fatigue.​

Imaging Accessories​

With the development of science and technology, it has become increasingly important to image and record the observation results of stereomicroscopes. Imaging accessories mainly include cameras and image acquisition cards. Cameras can be connected to the trinocular tube or other imaging ports of the microscope for taking images or videos of samples. There are various types of cameras, and different types of cameras can be selected according to different needs. For example, for applications requiring high-resolution images, high-pixel cameras can be selected; for scenarios requiring dynamic observation and recording, cameras with higher frame rates can be selected. The image acquisition card is used to transmit the image signal captured by the camera to the computer for processing and storage. Some advanced imaging accessories also have image analysis functions, which can measure, analyze and process the captured images, providing richer data support for scientific research and production. For example, through image analysis software, parameters such as sample size, area calculation, and color analysis can be measured, which greatly improves work efficiency and data accuracy.​

Other Accessories​

In addition to the above common accessories, stereomicroscopes also have some other accessories, such as dust covers and microscope stands. The dust cover can protect the optical components of the microscope from dust pollution and extend the service life of the microscope. The microscope stand is used to support the microscope, enabling it to be stably placed on the workbench. Different types of microscope stands have different characteristics and applicable scenarios. For example, universal stands can adjust the microscope in all directions, facilitating observation of samples from different angles; floor-standing stands are suitable for larger microscopes and can provide more stable support. In addition, there are some accessories for special experimental needs, such as polarizing accessories for polarizing observation, which can be used to analyze the optical anisotropy of samples; fluorescent accessories for fluorescent observation, which can excite samples to emit fluorescence, thereby detecting and analyzing specific components in samples.​

Окуляры — это часть стереомикроскопа, которая непосредственно контактирует с глазами наблюдателя. Их качество и характеристики оказывают значительное влияние на результаты наблюдения. Наиболее распространены стандартные окуляры и окуляры с высокой точкой выхода зрачка. Стандартные окуляры относительно дешевы и подходят для обычных задач наблюдения. Окуляры с высокой точкой выхода зрачка удобнее для пользователей в очках, так как позволяют комфортно наблюдать, не снимая очки, а также обеспечивают более широкое поле зрения. Окуляры бывают разного увеличения: 10X, 15X, 20X и другие. Окуляры с меньшим увеличением дают более широкое поле зрения и подходят для наблюдения за крупными образцами, тогда как окуляры с большим увеличением используются для детального изучения мелких элементов. Существуют также специализированные окуляры, например, измерительные окуляры со шкалой для определения размеров образцов или окуляры с технологией ComfortView, которые обеспечивают коррекцию аберраций и оптимальное позиционирование точки выхода зрачка для комфортного и быстрого наблюдения и записи данных.

Объективы — это ключевые оптические компоненты стереомикроскопа, отвечающие за увеличение и формирование изображения образца. Существуют различные типы объективов, включая ахроматические и апохроматические. Ахроматические объективы корректируют хроматические аберрации, улучшая цветопередачу, но их коррекция ограничена. Апохроматические объективы обеспечивают более точную цветокоррекцию, давая более четкое и естественное изображение, однако они дороже. Увеличение объективов также варьируется: 0.5X, 1X, 2X и другие. Объективы с малым увеличением подходят для изучения крупных образцов или общего обзора, тогда как объективы с большим увеличением используются для детального анализа. Существуют и специализированные объективы, например, объективы с большим рабочим расстоянием, которые удобны для работы с толстыми образцами или при необходимости манипуляций на поверхности образца, так как они исключают риск столкновения объектива с образцом.

Вспомогательные объективы обычно устанавливаются под револьверной головкой микроскопа и служат для изменения общего увеличения системы. Они позволяют гибко настраивать увеличение без замены основного объектива. Стандартные увеличения вспомогательных объективов: 0.3X, 0.5X, 0.75X, 1.5X, 2X. Например, использование вспомогательного объектива 0.5X с окуляром 10X и основным объективом 1X уменьшит общее увеличение вдвое, что полезно для наблюдения крупных образцов. Вспомогательный объектив 2X, напротив, удвоит увеличение для более детального изучения. Некоторые вспомогательные объективы также могут улучшать разрешение или глубину резкости изображения.

Тубусы наблюдения соединяют окуляры с объективами и определяют угол и способ наблюдения. Наиболее распространены бинокулярные и тринокулярные тубусы. Бинокулярные тубусы создают стереоэффект, позволяя воспринимать трехмерную структуру образца, что удобно для большинства задач. Межзрачковое расстояние в них регулируется (обычно 55–75 мм) для удобства пользователя. Наклон тубуса (например, 45°) снижает усталость при длительной работе. Тринокулярные тубусы дополнительно имеют порт для подключения камеры или другого оборудования. Они могут переключать световой поток между окулярами и камерой (например, 100% на окуляры или 50/50). Существуют также эргономичные тубусы с регулируемым углом наклона (5°–45°), что повышает комфорт работы.

Промежуточные тубусы располагаются между тубусом наблюдения и основным корпусом микроскопа и выполняют различные функции, такие как разделение светового потока или рисование. Они бывают с ручным или автоматическим управлением и разным соотношением разделения света (например, 100% наблюдение, 50/50 наблюдение и запись). Специальные тубусы для рисования проецируют изображение карандаша на микроскопическую картинку, позволяя точно копировать детали образца. Они могут включать регулируемые линзы для фокусировки и удлинители для работы с широкими основаниями.

Правильное освещение критично для качества изображения. Основные типы осветителей:

 — для непрозрачных образцов (галогенные или LED-источники).

 — для прозрачных образцов (устанавливается под столиком).

Дополнительные опции: кольцевое освещение (равномерный свет без теней), коаксиальное освещение (минимизация бликов для отражающих поверхностей), диафрагмы для регулировки интенсивности света.

Столики бывают фиксированные и подвижные. Подвижные столики позволяют точно позиционировать образец и часто имеют шкалу для измерений. Некоторые столики регулируются по высоте или наклону для работы с объемными образцами.

Включают грубую и точную фокусировку. Качественные механизмы используют комбинацию направляющих и зубчатых реек для плавности и стабильности. Длина хода фокусировки (обычно несколько сантиметров) важна для работы с толстыми образцами.

Снижают усталость при длительной работе:

Цифровые камеры и платы захвата изображения позволяют документировать наблюдения. Современные системы включают ПО для анализа изображений (измерения, подсчет площади, цветовой анализ).

Аксессуары для стереомикроскопов значительно расширяют их функционал. Правильный подбор компонентов позволяет оптимизировать работу для конкретных задач (наука, образование, промышленность). При выборе учитывайте совместимость, бюджет и требования к исследованиям.

(Перевод сохраняет все технические термины и адаптирует стиль для русскоязычной аудитории.)