DOMAILLE ENGINEERING DE2510 Series Video Microscope User Guide

: October 30, 2023
: DOMAILLE ENGINEERING

Table of Contents

DOMAILLE ENGINEERING DE2510 Series Video Microscope
Features
Changing Magnifications
Using the Scope
Interferograms Representing Individual and Combinations of Aberrations
Preventive Maintenance
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

DOMAILLE ENGINEERING DE2510 Series Video Microscope

Features

High-resolution video and CCD camera
20x non‐contact interferometer
Pitch‐ Yaw stage for fiber alignment

Manufactured by Domaille Engineering LLC, the DE2510 Series Video Microscope is designed for visual end‐face inspection of fiber optic connectors in a production environment. DE2510: Equipped with a ±20° tilting goniometer and interferometer, this model is primarily used for bare fiber inspection. Within this manual is all the information needed to operate and maintain the DE2510 Series Video Microscope. Domaille Engineering LLC is always designing innovative new products while maintaining and further developing existing ones.

Printing History
Edition 2, April 2014
©Copyright 2014 by Domaille Engineering LLC
Parts & Functions
(Chart & Image)
Initial Setup

After unpacking the ME2510 series microscope and accessories, the setup can be quickly achieved through a few simple connections. There are three main components to the microscope system, the microscope, power supply, and monitor (or computer using a frame grabber). The ME‐12013 LED Controller operates from a 24-volt DC output power adapter (ME‐12015) with a switching transformer to accept AC voltage 90‐240 volts, 50‐60Hz for domestic or international use. This unit is used to power both the CCD Camera and the illumination of the microscope. Currently, we provide two different manufacturer’s model monitors, in several different sizes. These monitors are high-resolution monitors specifically chosen to provide the best solution for inspecting connector end faces. We do not recommend any of the lower priced security type monitors as the resolution and image quality are not sufficient. A computer may also be used to capture images, contact Domaille Engineering for more information on digital camera options or video frame grabbers.

Focusing

The focus adjustment knob on the DE2510 series is conveniently located next to the stage.
Turning the knob adjusts the contrast of the image with precision and control.
Clockwise = Focuses the stage in
Counter‐Clockwise = Focuses the stage out

Lighting

The illumination can be controlled using the intensity control knob located on the ME‐12013 LED Controller. This allows the operator to control the brightness of the image when inspecting the dark fiber cladding with highly reflective metal or ceramic ferrules.
For a greater amount of control over the lighting, the ME‐12013 LED Controller is equipped with a 3-turn electronic rheostat. Older analog models may be upgraded by contacting Domaille Engineering.
Clockwise = Increases Illumination
Counter‐Clockwise = Decreases Illumination

Changing Magnifications

The DE2510 is equipped with three objective lenses: 5x, 10x, and 40x. Mounted to a typical microscope turret or nosepiece allows the operator to quickly change magnifications when inspecting connectors. Optional 3.3x and 40x objectives are available. For more information on magnification or calibration see our website at www.DomailleEngineering.com.

Using the Scope

Stage Adjustments

Focus or Y‐axis adjustment moves the entire stage assembly forward and back to focus the fiber.
Horizontal or X‐axis adjustment moves the bare fiber holder left to right, along the horizontal plane.
Vertical or Z‐axis adjustment moves the bare fiber holder up and down along the vertical plane.
Pitch adjustment tilts the angle of the bare fiber holder from the fore to the aft.
Yaw adjustment rotates the bare fiber holder from left to right.

Adjusting Bare Fiber Holder
Depending on the diameter of the bare fiber, it may be necessary to adjust the set screws to apply the correct amount of tension to secure the fiber.

Place the fiber into the fiber holder and close the door.
Slowly tighten the set screw closest to the objectives until the fiber will NOT slide in and out.
Tighten the 2nd set of screws for added support.
When the fiber needs to be rotated, simply lift the door before rotating.

Alignment of Stage
It is necessary to make sure that the bare fiber holder is perpendicular to the optics in order to get a correct cleave angle calculation using the interferometer.

Place the calibration pin in the bare fiber holder, making sure the pin is secure at the bottom of the “V”
Using the 5x objective lens focus on the calibration pin and center the image using the X and Z axis adjustments.
Repeat the process using the 10x and 20x objectives to make sure the pin is visible on the monitor.
Using the interferometer, focus in on the calibration pin fringes.
Using the Pitch and Yaw adjustments on the stage, tilt the stage until only 1 fringe is visible.
Rotate the calibration pin and check the fringes again. Once the calibration pin can be rotated at any degree and 1 fringe is maintained the stage is perpendicular to the optics.

Procedure for checking bare fiber cleave
The non‐contact interferometer lens provides valuable information about the topography of the fiber end face. This pattern of the surface also offers information about the quality of the cleaning tool, breakpoint, and any stress that may have occurred during the break.

Place the bare fiber in the holder, making sure the pin is secure at the bottom of the “V”. It is recommended to leave approx. 3mm of fiber sticking out beyond the holder.
Using the 5x objective lens focus on the calibration pin and center the image using the X and Z axis adjustments.
Repeat the process using the 10x and 20x objectives. Use the 20x objective to check the surface quality of the cleave for chips/debris and/or hackle (rough surface area).
Using the interferometer, adjust the focus carefully until the fringes come into clear view.
Once you have a clear image with the interferometer. Rotate the fiber (simply lift the door on the fiber holder to rotate) and focus the interferometer again. The same fringe pattern should be maintained. If not the stage may need to be re‐aligned.
Count the number of DARK fringes to calculate cleave angle. Refer to the chart on the (next page).

Interferometric Analysis of Cleaved Fiber
The fringe count will vary according to different fiber diameters
Please note: The margin of error as a result of fixtures or misalignment of the holder can be ±1.5 fringes.

FRINGES PER DEGREE FOR VARIOUS FIBER DIAMETERS

Fiber Diameter| Fringe Count Per Degree
80 µm| 5.8
125 µm| 8.9
140 µm| 10.1
230 µm| 16.7

The angle of the fiber can be calculated by counting the number of DARK fringes on the fiber end face and dividing by the appropriate count of fringes per degree. Typical cleave angles are 1 degree or less.

Calculations behind the analysis

Tangent of 1 degree = H ÷ D = Nλ ÷2D
Tangent of 1 degree = 0.01745
H = Height of the fiber away from the reference mirror inside of the micrometer
D = Diameter of the fiber in microns
N= Number of fringes per degree
λ = Wavelength of light ( blue LED is approx. .480 microns)
λ÷2 = Height of 1 fringe
Using a 125-micron fiber as an example:
0.01745 = (N x .480) ÷ (2 x 125)
N = 8.9
Using an 80-micron fiber as an example:
0.01745 = (N x .480) ÷ (2 x 80)
N = 5.8

Interferograms Representing Individual and Combinations of Aberrations

Preventive Maintenance

Caution
The following instructions should only be performed by qualified service personnel.

If equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
There is NO SERVICEABLE EQUIPMENT inside the ME‐12013 LED Controller. All equipment requiring repair should be sent back to the manufacturer or an authorized dealer.

Note: The DE2510 series microscope is relatively low in maintenance. Basic care and precaution in using the instrument are required. Depending upon the cleanliness of the general working area as well as the age of the equipment, we would suggest at least semi‐annual service and maintenance.

General Cleaning
Harsh solvents are not recommended on a regular basis. Typical safe degreaser solvents can be used to clean old grease or grime from mechanical parts. Lens cleaner is safe to use on the optics of our microscopes. Lens cleaner can be used with a soft lens tissue/ cloth to remove any soil, fingerprints, etc. From the front of the objectives.

Centering the illumination
Centering the illumination of the DE2510 is critical in order to maximize the performance of the microscope. All scopes are set up from the factory, but replacing lamps or periodic cleaning of the beam splitter may require the operator to re‐center the illumination.

Using a 3/32” hex wrench, loosen the four socket head screws surrounding the light block.
While viewing a fiber on the monitor, slide the light block around until the greatest amount of light is over the cladding area of the fiber.
Re‐tighten the four screws.

Incorrect Illumination
Notice how the light is towards the bottom of the screen.

Correct Illumination
Notice how the light surrounds the cladding. Light scratches can now be easily detected.
Cleaning objective lenses
Oils, dirt, and fingerprints may reduce the resolving power of the objective lenses. To ensure maximum levels of performance of the DE2510 series, wipe the lens of the objectives with alint‐free tissue and lens cleaner. Ordinary lens cleaner, available at most photography supply stores works the best. Perform this procedure weekly or as needed, depending on the type of environmental inspection is being held.

Cleaning the CCD Camera
Use extreme caution when attempting to clean the camera. Any scratches, solvents, streaks or dirt left on the IR filter of the CCD will show up in the field of view of the microscopes.

Before attempting to clean the IR filter on the CCD camera, first, confirm that the visible dirt on the monitor is actually on the camera. While viewing the suspected dirt on the video monitor, slowly rotate the CCD camera on the Microscope. Due to the orientation of the CCD, if the dirt remains in the same spot and does not rotate with the camera, then it most likely is on the camera itself.

Carefully unscrew the camera from the camera mount.
Using clean, compressed air, blow across the surface of the IR filter.
Recheck the camera for dirt.
If the dirt is still there, use plastic tweezers, a soft lens cloth, and lens cleaner to carefully wipe the surface of the IR filter. Use a wiping spiral pattern from the center of the filter out to the edges, to remove debris.
Re‐check the camera for dirt.
Repeat this process until the camera is clean.

Determining actual magnification

The best method to calculate the exact “total” magnification used on the DE2500 series is to measure the cladding on the video display. Take the measurement in millimeters and divide that amount by the 125-micron cladding. The result is the “total” optical and video magnification being used.
For example: taking a set of calipers, we measured the diameter or the ferrule viewed throughDE2510 on a monitor to be approximately
Actual size on display/ cladding diameter in mm = total magnification53.49mm / .125mm = 427.92X

Lubricating the focus micrometer
Occasional lubrication of the focus micrometer will ensure accurate and repeatable results.