ZEISS AxioExaminer microscope – Configuration 2

The Axio Examiner.A1 Configuration 2 from ZEISS is designed for patch clamp and electrophysiology applications, offering maximum working space around the sample thanks to the forward offset of the optical axis of the objective turret. Objectives are replaced by lifting (20 mm) then rotating backwards, minimising interference with the micro-pipettes.

The stage and condenser can be adjusted independently, allowing a working height of over 100 mm. All essential adjustments – focus, stage, condenser diaphragm, dia- and episcopic illumination, light intensity, visible light/IR switch, DIC and Dodt gradient contrast – are located on the front of the microscope for quick access.

The optical system allows several observation techniques to be combined on the same microscope:

• Simple oblique observation: integrated into the condenser, 360° rotating diaphragm, simple alternative to DIC or Dodt.
• DIC observation: Sénarmont prism with polarizer adjustment under the condenser to reduce disturbances and vibrations.
• Dodt gradient contrast: 360° rotating diaphragm, pull-pull polarizer (visible light/IR) and “Push & Click” analyser.

Three long-distance condensers are available: numerical apertures of 0.8 and 0.9, and 1.2 for the new water lenses with a working distance of 75 mm. Advanced W-N-ACHROPLAN and W Plan-APOCHROMAT objectives can be used, as well as Push & Click magnification and zoom modules from 0.5x to 4x, for maximum flexibility.