VANGUARD 1400INi Inverted Microscopes Instruction Manual

VANGUARD 1400INi Inverted Microscopes Instruction Manual

1400INi Series

425-823-4518 | 800-423-8842
sales@veegee.com | support@veegee.com
www.veegee.com/service_support

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing this VanGuard microscope. With the user in mind, VanGuard microscopes are built from modern designs and should provide a lifetime of reliable performance. Before using this microscope it must be properly setup, which requires some familiarity with the microscope. For this reason we recommend you read this entire manual carefully before setting up and using the instrument.

1400INi Series Inverted Microscopes

Vanguard 1400INi Series inverted microscopes are suited for observation of biological cultures or specimens within well plates, petri dishes, slides and vials.

Viewing Head. Rotatable trinocular (Seidentopf) head is inclined at 30°. All models feature interpupillary and dioptric adjustment. The trinocular head features a sliding main prism (80/20 split) to provide full-time imaging when the vertical tube is in use (80% of the image to the vertical tube and 20% to the eyetubes).

Eyepieces. 10X ultra-widefield (DIN) with a field diameter of 22mm.
Nosepiece. Quintuple, ball-bearing nosepiece with high-grade lubricant and positive stops.
Objectives. Plan achromatic, infinity corrected objectives come standard on both models. Objectives are made to DIN standards and are optically coated.

Stage. The fixed stage measures 160 x 250mm and 300 x 250mm with stage extensions/ mechanical stage attached. Mechanical stage accepts 96 well microplate and included stage inserts: Terasaki/65mm petri dish, 1 x 3” slide/54mm petri dish, 35mm petri dish. Motion of mechanical stage is controlled by a right-hand, low-position coaxial control and is driven by a rack and pinion system.

Focusing movement. Coaxial, ultra-low position coarse and fine focus controls feature a 40mm focusing range and are graduated to 2 microns per division. Fitted with a tension adjustment.

Condenser. Brightfield models come with a 0.30 N.A. condenser. Phase contrast models come with a 0.30 N.A. condenser with phase annulus slider for 10X/20X, and 40X; also has a open setting for brightfield work. All condensers are factory centered and aligned for ease of setup and include an iris diaphragm, and a slide-in filter holder.

Illumination. 30W variable quartz halogen light source. Comes with blue, green (model 1493INi only), and dispersion filters. 1A, 250V fuses.

Body. Cast-metal, ergonomic body with stain-resistant enamel finish.

Warranty information and a registration card can be found at the following web address:
www.veegee.com/service_support

Parts & Accessories

Included Parts:

Optional Accessories: (All Models)

Setup

Basic Assembly (All Models)

1. Remove all components from the packaging. Use the parts list on page 3to verify that all parts are present. Please retain all packaging in the unlikelyevent that the instrument should need servicing in the future.
2. Place the stand on a stable counter top.
3. Remove the plastic protective cover from the bottom of the head assembly.
4. Loosen the head set knob (figure 1).
5. Remove the protective cover from the head mount on the stand.                                      Do not release the head assembly until it is firmly secured to the microscope with the head set screw.
6. Place the head assembly on top of the stand so that the dovetail flange slides into place.
7. Secure by tightening the head set screw.
8. Remove the dust caps from the eyetubes.
9. Insert the eyepieces into the eyetubes (figure 2).                 
10. Remove the objectives from their storage containers.
11. Unthread four of the protective covers from the nosepiece.
12. Install the objectives onto the nosepiece by threading them clockwise into the holes until they are fully seated (figure 3). Be careful not to cross thread. It is common practice to install the objectives in order of increasing magnification, though not required.

13. Slightly loosen the two condenser set screws in the condenser mount with the included hex key and insert the condenser into the mount. Model 1491INi only: It will be necessary to remove the condenser plug while inserting the condenser into the condenser mount.
14. Rotate the condenser clockwise until the “AS” mark faces forward.
15. Secure in place by retightening the condenser set screws.

16. Model 1491INi only: Replace the condenser plug into the condenser.
17. Model 1493INi only: Slide the phase annulus slider into the condenser assembly, printed side up.

18. Slide the illuminator power plug onto the two prongs located on the socketassembly

19. Place the socket assembly onto the condenser so that the large location pinsslide into the pin slots and push down gently until housing is fully seated.

20. Place the glass stage plate into the opening in the stage. This plate allows the user to easily view the objectives.

21. Connect the main power cord to the power cord jack (figure 9) on the back of the microscope.
22. Connect the other end of the main power cord to a suitable power supply.
23. Power on the microscope using the power switch located on the right hand side of the microscope.
24. Set illuminator to desired intensity by adjusting the variable lighting control located at the front of the microscope.

Interpupillary and Diopter Adjustment (All Models)
Interpupillary adjustment (the distance between eyepieces) is made through a “folding” action. The Seidentopf design allows for a folding adjustment which is quickly and easily done for each user (figure 10).

Proper adjustment is done by looking through the eyepieces, then “folding” the eyepieces until they are comfortable to look through. At this point, if you are seeing two images continue to “fold” the eyepieces together until the images merge into one.

Diopter adjustment allows for proper optical correction based on each individual’s eyesight. This adjustment is easily made and is recommended prior to each use by different users to prevent eyestrain. The procedure for dioptric adjustment is as follows:

1. Using the 40X objective and a sample slide (i.e. one which produces aneasily focused image), close your left eye and bring the image into focus inyour right eye with the coarse/fine focus control.
2. Once the image is well-focused using only your right eye, close your righteye and check the focus with your left.
3. If the image is not perfectly focused, make fine adjustments with the diopter adjustment mechanism located on the left eye tube (see arrow in figure 11).
4. Once complete, the microscope is corrected for your vision.

Phase Contrast Setup

This section pertains to model 1493INi only!
The phase system comes precentered from the factory but alignment should be checked from time to time especially if poor phase performance has been noted.

1. Power on the microscope and rotate the objective turret until the 10Xobjective is in the light path. Make sure the condenser iris is fully opened.
2. Place a specimen on the stage and focus the image using the coaxial focus controls.
3. Remove the right eyepiece and insert the centering telescope into the empty eye tube (figure 12).
4. Adjust the phase annulus slider to the “10-20” position.
5. While looking through the centering telescope, turn the uppermost portion of the telescope only to focus the annulus rings (figure 12).
6. Insert the annulus centering hex keys into the the adjustment holes on the phase annulus slider (figure 13). Turn the hex keys until the two phase rings visable in the centering telescope are centered over one another (figure14A-14B). Repeat this step for the 40X objective and “40” annulus setting.

Optional Setup
All Models
Stage extensions and mechanical stage assembly:

1. Either one or both of the included stage extensions can be attached at the same time on opposite sides of the stage to increase the stage size when using large specimen holders. In addition, the mechanical stage can be attached to either side of the stage in place of an extension.
2. Hold the extension or mechanical stage against the side of the stage and position the screws underneath the screw holes (figure 15). Thread the screws into the screw holes and tighten down until the attachment is secure.

Colored Filters
Your Vanguard Microscope was supplied with either two or three filters. Bright field models (1491INi) come with a dispersion (frosted) filter and a blue filter. Phase contrast models (1493INi) add a green filter.

1. Slide out the filter holder (see arrow in figure 16) and place the desired filter into the bottom of the holder making sure that it sits flat. Replace filter holder.
2. You may stack filters but the total thickness should not exceed 11mm.

Dispersion filters can be used to soften harsh illumination for both viewing and photomicroscopy. Dispersion filters can control photograph exposure levels.

The green filter is used primarily for phase contrast and photograph color correction. Achromatic and plan achromatic objectives give their best image in green light.

The blue filter is used to approximate natural light. Because this is not a conversion filter, it should not be used for photomicroscopy.

Filtering is a user preference and application specific issue and therefore beyond the scope of this manual. There are many sources available that explain proper filtering technique and theory.

Trinocular Port
The trinocular port can be used as an additional viewing tube when a standard 23mm eyepiece is inserted (not included) as well as to attach a camera for documentation and group observation.

1. Loosen the trinocular port set screw (see upper arrow in figure 17) andremove the trinocular port dust cap.
2. Slide the trinocular tube assembly into the trinocular port (figure 18) andsecure with the trinocular port set screw. Be sure the trinocular tube isinserted fully into the trinocular port.
3. For attaching an eyepiece simply remove the trinocular tube dust cap andinsert a 23mm eyepiece. For attaching a camera follow the instructionsprovided with the camera package for assembly and use.
   Note: When using the trinocular port it is necessary to pull the light path selection knob fully to the right (see lower arrow in figure 17). This diverts 80% of the available light to the trinocular tube while the remaining 20% is directed to the main eyepieces. When pushed inward fully, the selector directs 100% of the light to the main eyepieces for the brightest speciman viewing possible.

Removal of Condenser Lens (All Models)

1. The condenser lens may be removed in order to gain additional sample clearance space when viewing specimens in large vessels. By unscrewing the lens (figure 19) the sample clearance is extended from 75mm to 150mm.

Power Switch/Variable Lighting Control
The rocker switch located on the right hand side of the microscope ( see lower arrow in figure 20) turns the illuminator on or off. To turn the power on press the rocker on the end marked “|”. To turn the power off press the rocker on the end marked “O”.

The illuminator housing will get hot if left on for extended periods of time. Be careful when making adjustments to the illuminator housing or bulb fixture.

VanGuard 1490INi microscopes are equipped with a variable lighting control (VLC), which allows the user to set the lighting anywhere between off and full brightness. The variable lighting control is located on the front of the microscope (see upper arrow in figure 20). To increase the brightness rotate the wheel clockwise.

Microscope Use

Focusing and Mechanical Stage Mechanisms

1. Focusing adjustment is achieved by turning the coarse/fine focus controls located on both sides of the microscope (figures 21 and 22). The large knobis used for coarse adjustment, the smaller knob for fine adjustment. The coaxial arrangement allows for easy, precise adjustment without drift.
2. Turning the coarse/fine focus control raises and lowers the nosepiece vertically. One complete turn of the fine focusing knob raises or lowers the nosepiece 0.3mm; the smallest graduation refers to 2 microns of vertical movement. One complete turn of the coarse focusing knob raises or lowers the nosepiece 3.6mm. To ensure long life, turn the focusing knobs slowly and uniformly.
3. The focusing tension control knob is located just inside of the right-hand focus control knob (see arrow in figure 21). For tighter tension, use the included tension adjustment wrench and turn the control knob in a clockwise motion. For looser tension, turn the control knob in a counterclockwise motion.
4. The mechanical stage X-Y controls, located underneath the right-hand sideof the stage (figure 23), provide easy and accurate positioning of the sample.One complete turn of the longitudinal (Y) control (lower half of the stage controls, bottom arrow) will move the specimen 34mm left or right. On complete turn of the transverse (X) control (upper half of the stage controls, top arrow) will move the specimen 20mm front or back.
5. This microscope comes with various stage inserts: Terasaki/65mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
   1 x 3” Slide/54mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
   35mm Petri Dish Stage Insert
   Glass Stage Insert

Bright field and Phase Contrast Condensers

1. Aperture Adjustment: The light path can be adjusted with the iris diaphragm adjustment lever (see arrow in figure 24) located in the condenser. The aperture diaphragm acts as a control for resolution and contrast. Generally, if the iris diaphragm is open too far, you will have high contrast at the expense of resolution. If the iris is closed too far, you will not have enough contrast to properly view the specimen. The condenser iris diaphragm should not be used to adjust light intensity, which is best left to the variable lighting control.
2. Annulus Slider (phase contrast condenser only): When using phase contrast the number on the annulus slider must match the magnification of the objective in use. For example, if you are using the 10X objective, slide the annulus turret until it reads “10-20”. For bright field work set the annulus slider to the open position.

Maintenance

Replacing the Lamp

Before attempting to replace or remove the lamp, UNPLUG THE MICROSCOPE FROM ANY POWER SOURCE and allow to cool.

1. Remove the socket assembly from the top of the condenser (figure 25).
2. Remove the lamp from the socket by gently pulling.

Be careful not to touch the glass bulb when replacing -use a tissue or other medium to grasp the lamp. This will prevent the oils in your hand from reducing lamp life. If contact is made with the bulb, clean with rubbing alcohol and allow a brief drying period.

3. When replacing, insert the new lamp into the socket assembly. Make sure that the pins on the lamp line up with the holes on the socket. The pins should slide freely into the holes with only slight resistance – do not force.
4. The lamp filament should be lined up with the screw head located under neath the lamp for proper centering (figure 26).
5. Replace the socket assembly.

Replacement Lamp – 30W, 6V Halogen (Cat. No. 1400-30WHL)

Replacing the Fuses

If the microscope is plugged in but the bulb is not turning on, the fuses could be blown. The instructions below detail how to check for a blown fuse. You can tell a blown fuse by if the wire inside is broken, or the glass is blackened.

Before attempting to replace or remove the fuse, UNPLUG THE MICROSCOPE FROM ANY POWER SOURCE.

1. Remove the fuse holders from the rear of the microscope (figure 27) by using a slotted screwdriver to push inward while turning counter-clockwise.
2. Remove the fuse from the fuse holder.
3. If the fuse is blown replace by inserting a new fuse into the fuse holder (figure28).
4. Thread the fuse holder back into the microscope by turning in a clockwise direction with the slotted screwdriver.

Replacement Fuse – 2 each 1A 250V (Cat. No. 1200-FS4)

Caring for your 1400INi Microscope (All ModelsThe)

• Models: The eyepieces and objective lenses on VanGuard Microscopes have delicate, optical coatings. Therefore they should never be wiped while dry because any dirt or dust will scratch the coating. Blow off the lens surface with an air-bulb and lens brush. Then use a lens cleaning solution. Never use anything other than lens cleaner on any optical component. Apply with a cotton swab for a minimum of wetting, then wipe the surface clean with a quality lens tissue.

• The same care instructions apply to all optical parts on this VanGuard Microscope, including the condenser lenses.

• All other parts can be cleaned with a paper towel and mild detergent. Be aware that rubbing alcohol can break down lubricants and damage the painted surfaces; it is therefore not recommended. If used, be careful when cleaning near the following parts:
  • Focus controls
  • Nosepiece
  • Mechanical controls

• Xylene, since it breaks down the bonding material holding the lenses, should never be used as a cleaner.

• Periodically, your Van Guard Microscope should be fully serviced by a qualified service technician.

• In order to keep dust and debris out of the optical pathways, always keep the camera port and eye tubes covered (with either eyepieces or dust caps), and always use the dust cover when the microscope is not in use.

For information about parts, accessories, or service — contact your dealer directly or contact VanGuard Microscopes at 1-800-423-8842 | sales@veegee.com | www.veegee.com

Troubleshooting

This chart may help resolve some of the more common problems associated with using a compound microscope. Simply follow the steps until your problem is resolved. As always, you can contact your dealer or VanGuard Microscopes if you ever need help.

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References

• VEE GEE Scientific
• Technical Support & Service – VEE GEE Scientific

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