VEE GEE 1321BRi 1300 Series Van Guard Compound Microscope User Manual

June 4, 2024
VEE GEE

Microscope
Operation Manual
1300 Series
Covering Models:
1320BR, 1321BRi, 1323PHi
1330BR, 1331BRi, 1333PHi
VEE GEE 1321BRi 1300 Series Van Guard Compound
Microscope

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. We recommend you read this entire manual carefully before setting up and using the instrument.
Warranty information and a registration card can be found at the following web address: www.veegee.com/pages/technical-support-service

1300 Series Compound Microscopes

VanGuard 1300 Series Compound Microscopes provide the necessary specifications for diagnostic and educational use in medical/veterinary clinics, universities, and industrial
laboratories.

  • Research Level
  • Brightfield & Phase Contrast Models
  • Infinity & Fixed Focal Length Models
  • Precision Optics

Viewing Head. Binocular (Seidentopf), or trinocular (Seidentopf) heads rotate 360° and are inclined at 30°. All models feature interpupillary and dioptric adjustments. 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 extra-widefield (DIN), high eyepoint with a field number of 20.
Nosepiece. Quadruple, reversed, ball bearing nosepiece with high-grade lubricant and positive stops. The nosepiece is reversed (inward-facing) to allow for easier manipulation of slides and to aid in keeping the objectives clean.
Objectives. Choose from fixed focal length (achromatic) or infinity corrected (plan achromatic). Objectives are made to DIN standards and are anti-reflective coated.
Stage. Delivering a high level of fluid motion control and longevity, the stage measures 135x140mm. Features a removable spring-clip slide holder and a chemical-resistant finish. Motion is controlled by a right-hand, low position coaxial control and is driven by a rack and pinion system.
FocusingMovement. Coaxial, ultra-low position, coarse and fine focus controls feature a 23mm focusing range and are graduated to 2 microns per division. Fitted with tension adjustment and safety up-stop.
Condenser. Brightfield models come with a 1.25 N.A. Abbe condenser. Phase contrast models come with a 1.25 N.A. Zernike condenser with phase annulus rings for 10X, 20X, 40X, and 100X; also has a “0” setting for brightfield work. All condensers are mounted on a rack and pinion focusing mechanism and feature spring-loaded centering knobs and iris diaphragm.
Illumination. 20W, 6V variable quartz halogen light source. Comes with blue, green (phase contrast only), and dispersion filters. 0.25A, 250V fuse.
Base. Stable 180 x 225mm fitted with anti-skid rubber feet.
Body. Cast metal, ergonomic body with stain-resistant enamel finish.

Parts & Accessories

Environmental Conditions
VanGuard microscopes are highly-precise optical instruments and care should therefore be taken during storage and use to prevent damage due to extreme environmental conditions:

  • Intended for indoor use only.
  • Avoid placing the microscope in direct sunlight or near water that could penetrate the instrument.
  • The working location should be free from mechanical vibrations and chemical vapors.
  • Avoid high temperature or humidity, and dusty environments.
  • Temperature range: 50 – 104°F (10 – 40°C)
  • Humidity: 80% maximum, non-condensing

Included Parts

Model 1320BR
Binocular Head (1 ea.)
Stand (1 ea.)
Brightfield Condenser (1 ea.)
10X Eyepiece (2 ea.)
4X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
10X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
40X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
100X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)
Blue Filter (1 ea.)
Power Cable (1 ea.)
Spare Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)
Lamp Replacement Tool (1 ea.)
Spare Fuse (1 ea.)
Dust Cover (1 ea.)
Operation Manual (1 ea.)| Model 1320BR
Binocular Head (1 ea.)
Stand (1 ea.)
Brightfield Condenser (1 ea.)
10X Eyepiece (2 ea.)
4X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
10X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
40X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
100X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)
Blue Filter (1 ea.)
Power Cable (1 ea.)
Spare Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)
Lamp Replacement Tool (1 ea.)
Spare Fuse (1 ea.)
Dust Cover (1 ea.)
Operation Manual (1 ea.)| Model 1323PHi
Binocular Head (1 ea.)
Stand (1 ea.)
Phase Contrast Condenser Assembly (1 ea.)
Phase Contrast Centering Telescope (1 ea.)
10X Eyepiece (2 ea.)
10X, Infinity, Plan, Phase Objective (1 ea.)
20X, Infinity, Plan, Phase Objective (1 ea.)
40X, Infinity, Plan,  Phase Objective (1 ea.)
100X, Infinity, Plan,  Phase Objective (1 ea.)
Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)
Blue Filter (1 ea.)
Green Filter (1 ea.)
Power Cable (1 ea.)
Spare Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)
Lamp Replacement Tool (1 ea.)
Spare Fuse (1 ea.)
Dust Cover (1 ea.)
Operation Manual (1 ea.)
---|---|---
Model 1330BR
Trinocular Head (1 ea.)
Stand (1 ea.)
Brightfield Condenser (1 ea.)
10X Eyepiece (2 ea.)
4X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
10X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
40X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
100X Achromatic Objective (1 ea.)
Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)
Blue Filter (1 ea.)
Power Cable (1 ea.)
Spare Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)
Lamp Replacement Tool (1 ea.)
Spare Fuse (1 ea.)
Dust Cover (1 ea.)
Operation Manual (1 ea.)| Model 1331BRi
Trinocular Head (1 ea.)
Stand (1 ea.)
Brightfield Condenser (1 ea.)
10X Eyepiece (2 ea.)
4X, Infinity Corrected, Plan Objective (1 ea.)
10X, Infinity Corrected, Plan Objective (1 ea.)
40X, Infinity Corrected, Plan Objective (1 ea.)
100X, Infinity Corrected, Plan Objective (1 ea.)
Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)
Blue Filter (1 ea.)
Power Cable (1 ea.)
Spare Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)
Lamp Replacement Tool (1 ea.)
Spare Fuse (1 ea.)
Dust Cover (1 ea.)
Operation Manual (1 ea.)| Model 1333PHi
Trinocular Head (1 ea.)
Stand (1 ea.)
Phase Contrast Condenser Assembly (1 ea.)
Phase Contrast Centering Telescope (1 ea.)
10X Eyepiece (2 ea.)
10X, Infinity, Plan, Phase Objective (1 ea.)
20X, Infinity, Plan, Phase Objective (1 ea.)
40X, Infinity, Plan,  Phase Objective (1 ea.)
100X, Infinity, Plan,  Phase Objective (1 ea.)
Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)
Blue Filter (1 ea.)
Green Filter (1 ea.)
Power Cable (1 ea.)
Spare Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)
Lamp Replacement Tool (1 ea.)
Spare Fuse (1 ea.)
Dust Cover (1 ea.)
Operation Manual (1 ea.)
VEE GEE 1321BRi 1300 Series Van Guard Compound Microscope - Parts &
Accessories| VEE GEE 1321BRi 1300 Series Van Guard Compound Microscope - Parts &
Accessories 2
---|---

Optional Accessories:

Digital Camera Systems:

Part Number Description
1400-CDPC-3 USB Digital Camera Kit with Adapters and Microscopy Software, 3

Megapixels
1400-CDPC-5| USB Digital Camera Kit with Adapters and Microscopy Software, 5 Megapixels
1400-CDPC-10| USB Digital Camera Kit with Adapters and Microscopy Software, 10 Megapixels

consumables:

Part Number Description
1200-LOG Immersion Oil, Low Viscosity, 1/4 fl oz

Setup

Assembly

The next three pages are dedicated to setting up the microscope. The following “Operation” section explains the various features of the microscope and how to use them.

  1. Remove the microscope parts from the protective foam and plastic packaging. Check for all components and accessories (see list on page 3), then you can begin assembly.
  2. Place the stand on a stable countertop.
  3. Place the head assembly on top of the stand so that the head flange slides into the flange mount. NOTE: Do not release the head until it is firmly secured with the head set screw.
  4. Secure with the head set screw (figure 1a).
  5. Remove the dust caps from the eye tubes, then insert the eyepieces into the eye tubes (figure 2).
  6. After removing the objectives from their storage containers, individually install each one into the nosepiece by threading them clockwise into the threaded holes of the nosepiece (see figure 3). It is generally considered best practice to install the objectives in numerical order from lowest to highest magnification.

Centering the Illuminator

Verifying that the illuminator is centered will allow maximum light to reach the specimen.
This process should be performed during the initial setup and whenever replacing the lamp.

Be sure the microscope’s power is turned off and allow sufficient time for the lamp to cool completely.
Remove the collector assembly by grasping the lower beige section (figure 4a) while pulling it upwards and out at the same time. The collector assembly is held in place by magnets and will come loose with a minimal amount of force.
The lamp (figure 4b) should be centered in the lamp socket (figure 4c). If it is not, grasp the lamp using a tissue being careful not to touch the glass envelope with your bare fingers and reposition the lamp so that the filament is positioned at the center of the socket.
Reinstall the collector assembly making sure that the rear of the collector is fitted underneath the metal retaining plate (figure 4d).

Substage Adjustments

  1. Centering: Although the condenser comes pre-centered you may find it necessary to check it occasionally. A simple method for centering is as follows:• Rotate the nosepiece until the 10X objective is in the light path. For phase contrast models set the phase annulus turret to the “0” position.
    • Raise the substage assembly fully by turning the substage adjustment knob counter-clockwise. Be careful not to crash the condenser lens into the objectives.
    • Open the Kohler field iris diaphragm to the largest setting by rotating the adjustment ring (figure 5a) clockwise. • Slide the aperture diaphragm lever (figure 6a) to the right to close the aperture iris. • Closing the aperture diaphragm will reduce the field so that a small white hexagon is visible within a black field (figure 7a). Remove one of the eyepieces and view the image directly through the empty eyetube. Focus the hexagon by adjusting the substage adjustment knob. This white hexagon should be centered in the black field. If not, using a 1.5mm hex wrench first loosen the two condenser centering screws located at the rear of the condenser mount, then reposition the condenser until the iris is properly centered within the black field (figure 7b). Finally, tighten the condenser centering screws back down.
    •  Fine-tune by opening the aperture iris diaphragm until the white hexagon almost fills the entire field (figure 7c), and then readjust (figure 7d) by using the instructions in the previous step. After entering the condenser, open the aperture iris diaphragm slightly wider than the field of view.
    VEE GEE 1321BRi 1300 Series Van Guard Compound Microscope - Figure
7

  2. Vertical Focusing : The condenser can be raised and lowered with the substrate adjustment knob to focus the light for optimal illumination.

  3. Aperture Iris Diaphragm Adjustment: To achieve the best contrast, resolution, and depth of field, the aperture diaphragm should be set to approximately 70-80% of the field (figure 8) to match the objective’s numerical aperture. Adjust the aperture iris diaphragm with the aperture iris diaphragm lever (figure 6a) located at the bottom of the condenser.

  4. Field Iris Diaphragm Adjustment : The field diaphragm can be used to limit unwanted peripheral light from entering the condenser and interfering with the image quality.

Aligning the Phase Contrast Annulus Rings

The phase annulus rings come pre-aligned therefore it is not necessary to adjust them before use. Should it be necessary in the future (due to replacement of phase condenser or objectives) follow these steps:

  1. Center the condenser following the steps in the “Substage Adjustments” section.
  2. Set the objectives so they are in the approximate position for actual use. This is best achieved by placing a slide on the stage, rotating the 100X objective into position, and raising the stage until the tip of the 100X objective is just above the slide (almost touching).
  3. Rotate the nosepiece until the 10X objective is in the light path.
  4. Rotate the annulus turret in the phase contrast condenser until the “10” is seen in the viewing window.
  5. Raise the substage all the way and completely open the aperture diaphragm as well as the field diaphragm.
  6. Remove an eyepiece from one of the eye tubes and replace it with the phase contrast centering telescope.
  7. Looking through the phase contrast centering telescope, rotate the uppermost section of the phase contrast centering telescope until the image is in focus. The image seen through the phase contrast centering telescope should resemble rings superimposed on one another (figures 9 & 10).
  8. Insert a small slotted screwdriver into one of the two access slots in the rear of the condenser (figure 11) to access the adjustment screws (or preferably use two  screwdrivers at the same time, one in each access slot). While looking through the centering telescope, watch the white ring move as you turn the adjustment screw(s) in either direction. You will need to make adjustments to one or both of the screws in order to properly overlap the black annulus ring with the white ring (figure 10). If you’re having problems discerning the rings from the background or from internal reflections make sure that the telescoping eyepiece is properly focused and that the substage height is adjusted correctly.
  9. You will need to make this adjustment for each new phase objective or for all phase objectives if you are replacing the phase condenser with a new one. Be sure to match the phase annulus setting on the condenser to the appropriate phase objective when aligning. Once the phase rings are aligned, remove the phase contrast centering telescope and replace it with the standard eyepiece.
    NOTE: Brightfield work can be achieved on models with a phase contrast condenser.
    The “0” setting on the phase annulus turret is used for this purpose.

Operation

Variable Lighting Control and Power Switch

  1. The rocker switch located on the right-hand side of the microscope (figure 12) turns the power 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”.
  2. VanGuard 1300 Series microscopes are equipped with variable lighting control, located on the left side of the microscope, which allows the user to set the lighting anywhere between off and full brightness (figure 13). To increase the brightness roll the wheel towards the front of the microscope.

Focusing and Mechanical Stage Mechanisms

  1. Turn the coarse/fine focus controls (figure 14a) to adjust the image focus. The larger, outer knob is used for coarse adjustment, the smaller knob for fine adjustment.

  2. Turning the coarse/fine focus controls raises and lowers the stage vertically. One complete turn of the fine focusing knob raises or lowers the stage 0.3mm; the smallest
    graduation refers to 2 microns of vertical movement. One complete turn of the coarse focusing knob raises or lowers the stage 3.6mm. To ensure long life, turn the focusing knobs slowly and uniformly.

  3. The focusing tension control is located just inside of the right-hand focus control knob (figure 14b). For tighter tension, use the included tension control wrench to turn the
    control in a clockwise motion. For looser tension, turn the control in a counterclockwise motion.

  4. Illuminator Focusing: The condenser can be raised and lowered with the substrate adjustment knob (figure 15a) to focus the light for optimal illumination.

  5. Aperture Iris Diaphragm Adjustment: In order to achieve the best contrast, resolution, and depth of field, the aperture diaphragm should be set to approximately 70-80% of the field to match the objective’s numerical aperture. Adjust the aperture iris diaphragm with the aperture iris diaphragm lever (figure 16a) located at the bottom of the condenser.

  6. Field Iris Diaphragm Adjustment: The field diaphragm (figure 16b) is opened or closed by rotating the adjustment ring and can be used to limit unwanted peripheral light from entering the condenser and interfering with the image quality.

  7. The mechanical stage X-Y controls, located underneath the right-hand side of the stage (figure 14c), provide easy and accurate positioning of the sample. One complete turn of the longitudinal (X) control (lower half of the stage controls) will move the specimen 34mm left or right. One complete turn of the transverse (Y) control (upper half of the stage controls) will move the specimen 20mm front or back.

  8. The spring-loaded slide holder can be removed for users who prefer to not use it.
    Simply unthread the slide holder knobs (figure 16c), which lock the slide holder on the stage, and remove the slide holder.

Interpupillary and Diopter Adjustment

  1. Interpupillary adjustment (the distance between the 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 17).

  2. 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.
    • Using the 40X objective and a sample slide (i.e., one which produces an easily focused image), close your right eye and bring the image into focus in your left eye with the coarse/fine focus control.
    • Once the image is well focused using only your left eye, set the diopter dial (figure 18a) on the right eyetube to “0” then close your left eye and check the focus with your right.
    • If the image is not perfectly focused, make fine adjustments with the diopter dial.

  3. Once complete, the microscope is corrected for your individual vision.VEE GEE 1321BRi 1300 Series Van Guard Compound Microscope - Figure 18

Setting the Up-Stop Mechanism

The up-stop mechanism is located just inside of the left-hand focus control knobs (figure19a). It allows the user to set a maximum point to which the stage can be raised, which prevents damage to the specimen and objective.

  1. To set this point, first, unlock the stop by pressing against the lever and rotating counter-clockwise.
  2. Raise or lower the stage to the desired height by turning the focus control knobs. Be careful not to raise the stage high enough to crash into the objective.
  3. Once achieved, relock by rotating the up-stop mechanism in a clockwise motion, so that its tab is facing upward (see figure 19a).
  4. Once gently tightened, the up-stop mechanism will not allow the stage to be raised higher than the set point.

Using the Camera Port

  1. Remove the trinocular port dust cap (figure 20a) from the trinocular port by unthreading.

  2. Carefully thread the camera port (figure 21a) into the trinocular port in a clockwise direction until tight.

  3. Assemble the adapters and connect them to the camera using the instructions provided with the camera/adapter kit.
    Note: The camera kit is not included with this microscope.

  4. Remove the camera port dust cap (figure 21b), then slide the adapter into the camera port.

  5. Pull the prism slider (figure 21c) completely out to divert the image to the camera port. The 1300 Series trinocular microscopes utilize an 80/20 split sliding prism. This split prism diverts 80% of the light to the camera port and the remaining 20% to the eyepieces when engaged. This allows the eyepieces to be used while the prism slider is pulled out, although the image seen through the eyepieces will be dim when compared to normal use.
    Note: When the camera port is not in use, be sure to cover it with the camera port dust cap.

Oil Immersion Objectives

The 100X objective that comes with this microscope must be used with immersion oil in order to maintain image quality. After use, the objective tip needs to be wiped clean so that no oil residue remains.

Procedure for using immersion oil:

  1. Place one drop of immersion oil on the prepared slide.
  2. Slowly lower the 100X objective until it makes contact with the drop of immersion oil. You should now be able
    to focus on the specimen.

Procedure for cleaning the 100X oil immersion objective:

  1. Lightly moisten a cotton swab with lens cleaner.
  2. Wipe the objective with a twisting motion in order to remove all traces of the immersion oil.
  3. Check that all immersion oil has been removed before storing the objective.

Note: Under no circumstances should an oil immersion objective be left sitting in oil for an extended period of time. Exceptionally long immersion periods can cause oil to penetrate the objective’s sealant and obscure the optics, which is not covered under warranty.
Note: You should avoid getting oil on any objective other than the 100X, as they are not sealed. Pay particular attention to the 40X, given its resemblance to the 100X objective.

Using Filters

Your Vanguard Microscope was supplied with two or three filters. Brightfield models come with a dispersion (frosted) filter and a blue filter. Phase contrast models have an additional green filter.

Procedure for Using Filters:

  1. Locate the drop-in filter holder located on the top of the collector.
  2. Insert the desired filter into the filter holder.
    Dispersion filters can be used to soften harsh illumination for both viewing and photomicroscopy. This filter can also be used to control photograph exposure levels.
    The green filter is used mainly for added contrast and photograph color correction during phase contrast work.
    The blue filter is used to approximate natural light and photograph color correction.
    Filtering is a user preference and application-specific issue; therefore, further discussion is beyond the scope of this manual. There are many sources available that explain proper filtering techniques and theories.

Maintenance

Replacing the Lamp

  1. Before attempting to replace or remove the lamp, unplug the microscope from any power source and allow the bulb to cool completely.
  2. Fully raise the stage and substage assemblies. Be careful not to crash the objective into the stage or condenser lens.
  3. Grasp the collector assembly by the lower beige section (figure 22a) while pulling upwards and out at the same time. The collector assembly is held in place by magnets and will come loose with a minimal amount of force.
  4. Once the collector assembly is detached, remove the lamp (figure 23a) by grasping it and pulling it out from the socket (figure 23b).VEE GEE 1321BRi 1300 Series Van Guard Compound Microscope - Figure 23 Note: Be careful not to touch the glass bulb when replacing—use a tissue or other medium to grasp the bulb. This will prevent the oils from your hand from reducing lamp life. If contact is made with the bulb, clean with rubbing alcohol and allow a brief drying period.
  5. When replacing, first insert the new lamp into the included lamp replacement tool (figure 24). Then use the lamp replacement tool to insert the lamp into the lamp socket figure 25). The lamp should be properly centered within the lamp socket for optimal illumination. Remove the lamp replacement tool after insertion.
  6. Reinstall the collector assembly making sure that the rear of the collector is fitted underneath the retaining plate (figure 23c).
  7. Return the microscope to its normal operating position.

Replacement Lamp —20W, 6V Halogen (Cat. No. 1400-20WHL)

Replacing the Fuse

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

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

  1. Remove the fuse holder from the rear of the microscope (figure 26a) by using a slotted screwdriver to push inward while turning counter-clockwise.
  2. Remove the fuse from the fuse holder (figure 26b).
  3. If the fuse is blown, replace it by inserting a new fuse into the fuse holder.
  4. Replace the fuse holder back into the microscope by pushing inward and then turning in a clockwise direction with the slotted screwdriver. Do not over-tighten!

Replacement Fuse —0.25A, 250V (Cat. No. 1400-FS1)

Caring for your VanGuard Microscope

  1. 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.

  2. The same care instructions apply to all optical parts on this VanGuard Microscope, including the substage condenser and the collector lenses.

  3. 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:
    • Stage rack and pinion gears
    • Focus controls
    • Nosepiece
    • Substage gears
    • Substage controls

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

  5. Periodically, your VanGuard Microscope should be fully serviced by a qualified service technician.

  6. 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.

Troubleshooting

Symptom: No light is visable from the collector

Step #

|

Possible Cause

|

How To Test

|

Test Result?

|

Solution

| For More Info
---|---|---|---|---|---

1

| Light is not switched on| Visually inspect| Switched on| Go to next step|
Not switched on| Move power switch to on position| Page 10

2

|

Power cord not plugged in

|

Visually inspect

| Plugged in| Go to next step|
Not plugged in| Plug power cord into outlet|

3

| Variable lighting control (VLC) turned all the way down|

Visually inspect

| VLC turned up| Go to next step|
VLC turned down| Turn VLC up| Page 10

4

|

Microscope not getting power

|

Inspect outlet

| Good outlet| Go to next step|
Outlet not good| Plug power cord into working outlet|

5

|

Blown fuse

|

Visually inspect or try new fuse

| Good fuse| Go to next step|
Fuse is blown| Install new fuse| Page 15
6| Burnt out light bulb|

Visually inspect or try new bulb

| Good bulb| Contact dealer or VanGuard Microscopes| Page 18
Bulb is burnt out| Install new bulb| Page 14

Symptom: Image through the eyepiece(s) too dim

Step #

|

Possible Cause

|

How To Test

|

Test Result?

|

Solution

| For More Info
---|---|---|---|---|---

1

| Variable lighting control (VLC) is turned down too far|

Visually inspect

| VLC is turned up| Go to the next step|
VLC is turned down| Turn VLC up| Page 10

2

|

Light bulb not centered properly

|

Visually inspect

| Bulb is centered| Go to the next step|
The bulb is not centered| Center the bulb| Page 7

3

|

Condenser not centered properly

|

Check condenser centering

| Condenser is centered| Go to the next step|
Condenser not centered| Center the condenser| Page 8

4

|

Condenser height is not correct

|

Visually inspect

| Height is correct| Go to the next step|
The height is not correct| Adjust condenser height| Page 8

5

|

A dirty condenser or collector lens

|

Visually inspect

| Lenses are dirty| Clean condenser and/or collector lenses| Page 15
Lenses are clean| Contact dealer or VanGuard Microscopes| Page 18

Symptom: The stage won’t raise up high enough

Step #

|

Possible Cause

|

How To Test

|

Test Result?

|

Solution

| For More Info
---|---|---|---|---|---
1| The up-stop mechanism is set too low| Visually inspect| Set correctly| Go to the next step|
Set incorrectly| Adjust up-stop correctly| Page 11

2

|

The stage is set at maximum height

|

Visually inspect

| At maximum height| Stage can’t be raised any higher|
Not at maximum height| Contact dealer or VanGuard Microscopes| Page 18

Symptom: No image visable in the eyepiece(s) or trinocular port

Step #| Possible Cause| How To Test| Test Result?| Solution| For More Info
---|---|---|---|---|---

1

|

The light is not switched on

|

Visually inspect

| Switched on| Go to next step|
Not switched on| Move power switch to on position| Page 10

2

| Variable lighting control (VLC) is set too low|

Visually inspect

| Not set too low| Go to next step|
Set too low| Increase VLC level| Page 10

3

|

Objectives not installed

|

Visually inspect

| Objectives are installed| Go to next step|
Objectives not installed| Install objectives| Page 7

4

| Prism slider in the wrong position (trinocular models only)|

Visually inspect

| Incorrect position| Go to next step|
Not in the correct position| Set to correct position| Page 12

5

|

Light path blocked

| Visually inspect space between illuminator and objectives| Blockage present| Remove blockage|
Nothing blocking| Contact dealer or VanGuard Microscopes| Page 18

Symptom: Can’t focus on specimen image

Step #| Possible Cause| How To Test| Test Result?| Solution| For More Info
---|---|---|---|---|---
1| Up-stop is set too low| Visually inspect| Set correctly| Go to next step|
Set incorrectly| Adjust up-stop correctly| Page 11

2

| Using an immersion objective without immersion oil|

Visually inspect

| Oil is being used| Go to next step|
Oil is not being used| Use immersion oil| Page 13

3

|

Oil in objective or dirty objective

|

Visually inspect

| Objective is clean| Go to next step|
The objective is not clean| Clean or replace objective| Pages 13 & 15

4

|

The slide is upside down

|

Visually inspect

| The slide is correct side up| Go to next step|
The slide is upside down| Flip slide over|

5

|

The cover glass is too thick

|

Visually inspect

| The cover glass is too thick| Use #1.5 (0.17mm) cover glass|
The cover glass is correct| Contact dealer or VanGuard Microscopes| Page 18

Symptom: The stage keeps drifting downward

Step #| Possible Cause| How To Test| Test Result?| Solution| For More Info
---|---|---|---|---|---
1| Focus tension is set too loose| Check focus tension control| Tension too loose| Increase tension| Page 10
Tension set correctly| Contact dealer or VanGuard Microscopes| Page 18

Warranty & Service

5 Year Limited Warranty

VanGuard microscopes are warranted by VEE GEE Scientific LLC to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of five (5) years from the date of purchase, except for electrical components which have a one (1) year limited warranty. During this period, VEE GEE Scientific, or its authorized service station, will at their option and without charge, either repair or replace any part found to be defective in materials or workmanship.
This warranty is subject to the following limitations and exceptions and will not apply if:

  1. There is a lack of proof of date and place of purchase. The purchase invoice must accompany the unit when sent in for repair.
    The warranty extends to the original consumer purchaser only and is not assignable or transferable.

  2. The damage is due to normal wear and tear, misuse, abuse, negligence, accident, inadequate maintenance, disregard for operating instruction, or to any other cause not due to the manufacture of the microscope (e.g., an objective failure because of oil penetration due to lack of timely cleaning).

  3. The serial numbers, names, and/or functions are altered or obliterated; or unauthorized repair or replacement of parts by the End-User or an unauthorized third party while under warranty.

  4. Consumable items (such as but not limited to, bulbs) have failed.

This warranty expressly excludes transportation damage and adjustment or readjustment. In no case shall VEE GEE Scientific be liable to the Buyer or any person for any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damage whether claims are based in contract or otherwise with respect to or arising out of product furnished hereunder. For goods manufactured by any third party, VEE GEE Scientific’s liability under warranty is limited to the terms of the warranty by the supplier for the goods. All warranty work shall be performed at the authorized service center. Contact your distributor or VEE GEE Scientific to discuss the problem and obtain instructions for the return of your microscope for repair. The original purchaser returning this product must prepay all postage, shipping, transportation, packaging, and delivery costs.

If you experience problems setting up your microscope or have service-related questions please contact your dealer or VanGuard Microscopes directly at 1-800-423-8842.
Our standard business hours are 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Central Standard Time.

Contact Information:

Toll-Free 800-423-8842
Email sales@veegee.com
techsupport@veegee.com
Web veegee.com

Specifications

Viewing Head:
Viewing Head Type:
Head Rotation:
Head Inclination:
Sliding Prism:
Interpupillary Adjustment: Dioptric Adjustment:
Eyepiece Magnification:
Eyepiece Field Diameter:
Nosepiece:
Brightfield Objectives:
[Achromatic or Plan Achromatic]

Phase Contrast Objectives:
[Plan Achromatic]

Stage Dimensions:
Stage Motion:
Stage Movement Range:
Focusing Movement:
Focusing Range:
Focusing Graduation:
Brightfield Condenser:
Phase Contrast Condenser: Phase Centering Tool:
Lower Illumination:
Fuse:
Voltage:
Base Dimensions:
Overall Dimensions:
Weight:

| Trinocular/Binocular
Seidentopf
360°
30°
80/20 Split [Trinocular Models] 55-75mm
-5 to +5
10X Extra-Widefield, High Eyepoint
20mm
Quadruple Position/Reversed
4X [0.10 NA, 28.0mm WD] 10X [0.25 NA, 7.4mm WD] 20X [0.40 NA, 5.8mm WD] 40X [0.65 NA, 0.70mm WD] 60X [0.85 NA, 0.30mm WD] 100X(oil) [1.25 NA, 0.25mm WD] 10X [0.25 NA, 7.4mm WD] 20X [0.40 NA, 5.8mm WD] 40X  [0.65 NA, 0.70mm WD] 100X(oil) [1.25 NA, 0.25mm WD] 135mm x 140mm
Right-Hand Coaxial Control/Rack & Pinion Drive 50 x 80mm
Coaxial Coarse & Fine Controls/Safety Up-Stop 40mm
2 Microns/Division
1.25 NA Abbe Condenser with Iris Diaphragm
1.25 NA Zernike Condenser with Iris Diaphragm
Telescoping Eyepiece [Included] 20W, 6V Variable Quartz Halogen
0.25A, 250V
110V
175mm x 225mm
380mm (L) x 200mm (W) x 375mm (H)
7kg
---|---

NA = Numerical Aperture
WD = Working Distance

VEE GEE LOGO2veegee.co m |800-423-8842
sales@veegee.com | techsupport@veegee.com
veegee.com/pages/technical-support-service
VGMNL070219-1300BRIPHI
Printed in the USA
See the warranty card for more information:

www.veegee.com/pages/technical-support-service

References

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