VEE GEE 1421BRi Van Guard 1400 Series Professional Compound Microscope User Manual

Operation Manual
1400i Series
Covering Models: 1421BRi, 1431BRi,
**1423PHi & 1433PHi

Warranty information and registration
form can be found at:
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. We recommend you read this entire manual carefully before setting up and using the instrument.

1400i Series Compound Microscopes

The 1400i Series infinity corrected compound microscopes are the flagship of the VanGuard microscope line. Combining top performance with highly-advanced features and optics, the 1400i Series models produce images of the utmost in clarity. Choose from brightfield or phase contrast.
Viewing Head. Binocular or trinocular Seidentopf heads rotate 360° and are inclined at 30°. All models feature interpupillary and dioptric adjustment. The trinocular heads feature a sliding main prism (70/30 split) to provide full-time imaging when the vertical tube is in use. (70% of the image to the vertical tube and 30% to the viewing eye tubes).
Eyepieces. 10X high eyepoint, super-widefield (DIN) with a field number of 20.
Nosepiece. Quintuple 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. Plan achromatic objectives come standard on all models. All 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 160mm x 140mm. 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.
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 tension adjustment and safety autostop.
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 brightfield and darkfield stops. All condensers are mounted on a rack and pinion focusing mechanism and feature spring-loaded centering knobs and an iris diaphragm.
Illumination. 20W variable quartz halogen light source with Köhler field diaphragm. Comes with blue, green (phase contrast models only), and dispersion filters.
Base. Stable 225mm x 160mm base fitted with anti-skid rubber feet.
Body. Cast-metal ergonomic body with stain-resistant enamel finish.
Dimensions. 225mm (L) x 160mm (W) x 400mm (H); 8.3kg.

Parts & Accessories

Included Parts:

Plan Achromat Objective (1 ea.)
10X Infinity Corrected, Plan Achromat Objective (1 ea.)| 10X Infinity Corrected, Plan Achromat Objective (1 ea.)
40X Infinity Corrected, Plan Achromat Objective (1 ea.)| 40X Infinity Corrected, Plan Achromat Objective (1 ea.)
100X Infinity Corrected, Plan Achromat Objective (1 ea.)| 100X Infinity Corrected, Plan Achromat Objective (1 ea.)
Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)| Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)
Blue Filter (1 ea.)| Blue Filter (1 ea.)
Power Cord (1 ea.)| Power Cord (1 ea.)
Instruction Manual (1 ea.)| Instruction Manual (1 ea.)
Dust Cover (1 ea.)| Dust Cover (1 ea.)
Spare 20W Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)| Spare 20W Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)
Spare 0.25A, 250V Fuses (2 ea.)| Spare 0.25A, 250V Fuses (2 ea.)
Focus Tension Wrench (1 ea.)| Focus Tension Wrench (1 ea.)
Model 1423PHi| Model 1433PHi
---|---
Binocular Head (1 ea.)| Trinocular Head (1 ea.)
Stand (1 ea.)| Stand (1 ea.)
Phase Contrast/Brightfield/Darkfield Condenser (1 ea.)| Phase Contrast/Brightfield/Darkfield Condenser (1 ea.)
Phase Contrast Centering Telescope (1 ea.)| Phase Contrast Centering Telescope (1 ea.)
10X High Eyepoint Eyepieces (2 ea.)| 10X High Eyepoint Eyepieces (2 ea.)
10X Infinity Corrected, Plan Phase Objective (1 ea.)| 10X Infinity Corrected, Plan  Phase Objective (1 ea.)
20X Infinity Corrected, Plan Phase Objective (1 ea.)| 20X Infinity Corrected, Plan Phase Objective (1 ea.)
40X Infinity Corrected, Plan Phase Objective (1 ea.)| 40X Infinity Corrected, Plan Phase Objective (1 ea.)
100X Infinity Corrected, Plan Phase Objective (1 ea.)| 100X Infinity Corrected, Plan Phase Objective (1 ea.)
Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)| Dispersion Filter (1 ea.)
Blue Filter (1 ea.)| Blue Filter (1 ea.)
Green Filter (1 ea.)| Green Filter (1 ea.)
Power Cord (1 ea.)| Power Cord (1 ea.)
Instruction Manual (1 ea.)| Instruction Manual (1 ea.)
Dust Cover (1 ea.)| Dust Cover (1 ea.)
Spare 20W Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)| Spare 20W Halogen Lamp (1 ea.)
Spare 0.25A, 250V Fuses (2 ea.)| Spare 0.25A, 250V Fuses (2 ea.)
Focus Tension Wrench (1 ea.)| Focus Tension Wrench (1 ea.)

Optional Accessories:

Video and Digital Camera Systems:

Other Accessories:
Part Number:

Call for Part Numbers
Call for Part Numbers
1200-IOG

Call for Part Numbers
Call for Part Numbers
1200-IOG| Eyepieces (15X, 20X)
Objectives:| Plan Achromatic, Brightfield:
Plan Achromatic, Phase:
Immersion Oil, Low Viscosity (1/4 oz. Bottle)| 4X, 10X, 20X, 40X, 50X, 60X, 100X (oil)
10X, 20X, 40X, 100X (oil)
---|---|---|---

1400i Series Parts

Setup

Assembly
All part names in italics are illustrated on pages 5 or 6.

1. After removing the microscope parts from the protective foam packaging and checking it over for all components and accessories (a list is provided on page 3), 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 dovetail flange slides into place. Secure with the head set screw (circled in figure 1).
   NOTE: Do not release the head until it is firmly secured with the head set screw.

4. If you are setting up a trinocular microscope, remove the packing cap and carefully screw the camera port onto the head assembly in a clockwise direction until tight (see figure 2).

5. Remove the protectors from the eye tubes and replace them with eyepieces (see figure 3).

6. After removing the objectives from their storage containers, individually install each one into the nosepiece by twisting them clockwise into the threaded holes of the nosepiece (see figure 4).
   The condenser assembly comes preinstalled, but should it be necessary to reinstall then use the following instructions:

7. Raise the substage and stage to their maximum height (see figure 5). Raise the stage via the coarse/fine focus controls, and the substage using the substage adjustment knob.

8. Loosen the condenser set screw enough to allow the neck of the condenser to slide through the silver condenser mounting ring. It will be necessary to unthread and remove the upper portion of the base-collector first in order to gain sufficient clearance.

9. Gently slide the neck of the condenser through the condenser mounting ring until it will go no further (see figure 6). Make sure that the text “NA 1.25” is facing up as
   you install the condenser. If the condenser will not slide freely through the mounting ring (and you’ve checked that the condenser set screw is backed out far enough), do not force, simply wiggle the condenser while lightly pushing up. It may be necessary to loosen the up-stop mechanism in order to gain sufficient clearance (refer to page 11 for details).

10. Once the condenser assembly is in place, lower the substage via the substage adjustment knob and tighten the condenser set screw just enough to prevent the condenser from coming out.
    Note: The phase contrast condenser is pictured, but the assembly instructions are identical for the brightfield condenser.

11. Connect the female end of the power cord to the microscope (the jack is on the rear of the stand) and the male end to a suitable power supply, then turn the substage illuminator on with the power switch located on the lower left side of the instrument. If the light does not come on, check to see that the variable lighting control, located
    next to the power switch is on the highest setting.

Aligning the Condenser
Adjustments to the substage condensing system are crucial for proper illumination and performance. There are three basic adjustments that need to be made: Centering, Vertical Focusing, and Aperture Adjustment.

1 Centering: The condenser must be centered in the light path to ensure proper light control. A simple method for centering is as follows:

• Rotate the nosepiece until the 10X objective is in the light path.
• Raise the substage assembly fully by turning the substage adjustment knob counter-clockwise.
• Use the focus controls to focus on a specimen located on the stage.
• Open the aperture iris diaphragm to the largest setting by using the aperture iris diaphragm adjustment lever which extends from the condenser assembly.
• While looking into the microscope eyepieces, close the field iris diaphragm to the smallest setting by turning the uppermost section of the substage illuminator counter-clockwise.
• Closing the iris in this manner will reduce the field so that a small white hexagon is visible within a black field (see figure 8A). Focusing on the hexagon is performed by turning the substage adjustment knob. This white hexagon is the light that is passing through the field iris and should be centered in the black field. If not, move it to the center (see figure 8B) by tightening and/or loosening the condenser centering knobs.
• Fine-tuning can be done by opening the field iris diaphragm until the white hexagon almost fills the entire field (see figure 8C), and then readjusting (see figure 8D). After entering the condenser open the field iris diaphragm slightly wider than the field of view.

2 Vertical Focusing: The condenser can be raised and lowered with the substage adjustment knob to focus the light for optimal illumination.
3 Aperture Adjustment: The light path can be adjusted with the aperture iris diaphragm adjustment lever located just below the condenser. Aperture adjustments are made to induce contrast into a specimen, not to adjust light intensity.
If the iris isn’t centered in the field of view then use the condenser centering knobs to adjust. You may have to split the alignment difference between the field iris and the condenser iris to achieve a balance.

Aligning the Phase Contrast Annulus Rings
Phase contrast is a system that utilizes a series of light baffling annulus rings. Proper alignment of these rings is absolutely necessary to achieve optimal phase contrast.

1. Begin by turning on the substage illuminator with the power switch located on the lower left side of the instrument. 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, then raising the stage (via the coarse/fine focus control knobs) until the tip of the 100X objective is just above the slide (almost touching).

2. Rotate the nosepiece until the 10X objective is in the light path, then rotate the phase annulus turret (the dial on the front of the condenser) in the phase contrast condenser assembly until the “10” is seen in the viewing window (see figure 5).
   1423PHi/1433PHi Models
   

3. Remove an eyepiece from one of the eye tubes and replace it with the phase contrast centering telescope (see figure 6).

4. After loosening the set screw on the phase contrast centering telescope, look through the phase contrast centering telescope and pull out the uppermost piece of the phase contrast centering telescope until the image is in focus. Tighten the set screw.

5. The image seen through the phase contrast centering telescope should resemble rings superimposed on one another (see Figure 7A). What is actually being viewed are the phase rings.

6. Turn the condenser centering knobs, which extend from the front of the condenser mount until the two rings of light are centered upon one another (see Figure 7B).

7. Once the phase rings are centered, remove the phase contrast centering telescope and replace it with the eyepiece.

8. The phrase rings are now centered on the other remaining objectives unless one of the factory phase objectives has been replaced. In this instance, you will need to align just that condenser setting for your new objective using the centering knobs located at the rear of the condenser (not the knobs at the front as used in step 6 above).

NOTE: Brightfield work can be achieved by setting the condenser at the “0” marking. Likewise, the “DF” setting is for Darkfield work.
Note: This completes the setup for the 1423PHi and the 1433PHi. The next 3 pages will explain how to use and make adjustments to the microscope.

Using Your 1400i Series Microscope

Focusing and Mechanical Stage Mechanisms
All Models

1. Focusing adjustment is achieved by turning the coarse/fine focus controls (see figures 9 and 10). The large knob is used for coarse adjustment, the smaller knob for fine adjustment. The coaxial arrangement allows for easy, precise adjustment without stage drift.

2. Turning the coarse/fine focus control 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 knob is located just inside of the right-hand focus control knob (see figure 9). For tighter tension, turn the control knob in a clockwise otion. For looser tension, turn the control knob in a counterclockwise motion.

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

5. Aperture Adjustment: The light path can be adjusted with the iris diaphragm adjustment lever located underneath the condenser. Aperture adjustments are made to induce contrast into a specimen, not to adjust light intensity.

6. The mechanical stage X-Y controls, located underneath the right-hand side of the stage (see figure 9), provide easy and accurate positioning of the sample. One complete turn of the longitudinal (Y) control (lower half of the stage controls) will move the specimen 34mm left or right. One complete turn of the transverse (X) control (upper half of the stage controls) will move the specimen 20mm front or back.

7. The spring-loaded slide holder can be removed for users who prefer to not use a mechanical stage. Simply loosen the knurled slide holder knobs which lock the slide holder on the stage, and slip out the slide holder.

Setting the Up-Stop Mechanism
All Models
The up-stop mechanism is located just inside of the left-hand focus control knob (see figure 10). It allows the user to set a maximum point to which the stage can be raised.

1. To set this point, turn the up-stop mechanism in a counterclockwise motion so that its tab is facing up.
2. Raise or lower the stage, by turning the focus control knobs, to the desired height. Be careful not to raise the stage high enough to crash into the objective.
3. Once achieved, turn the up-stop mechanism in a clockwise motion, so that its tab is facing forward (see figure 10).
4. Once gently tightened, the up-stop mechanism will not allow the stage to be raised higher than the set point.

Interpupillary and Diopter Adjustments
All Models

1. 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 (see figure 11).
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.
3. 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, close your left eye and check the focus with your right. If the image is not perfectly focused, make fine adjustments with the diopter adjustment mechanism located on the right eyetube (see figure 12). Once complete, the microscope is now corrected for your vision.
   

All Models
Oil Immersion Objectives
The 100X objective which comes with this microscope should be used with immersion oil in order to maintain image quality.
After use, the objective tip must to be wiped clean so that no oil residue remains. This is especially true of any other objectives that may have intermittently come in contact with immersion oil.
Procedure for Cleaning the 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 the immersion oil has been removed before storing the objective.

Under no circumstances should an 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.

Using the Camera Port
1431BRi/1433PHi Models

1. Make sure that you have installed the camera port tube as described on page 7 and shown in figure 13.

2. Assemble the adapters and connect to the camera using the instructions provided with the camera/adapter kit.
   Note: The camera kit is not included with this microscope. Please see page 4 for available camera kits.

3. Remove the camera port dust cap, then slide the adapter into the camera port (see figure 14).

4. Pull the prism slider completely out to divert the image to the camera port. The prism slider is the silver knob on the right side of the head assembly (see figure 14).
   Note: The 1400i Series Microscopes utilize a 70/30 split sliding prism. This split prism diverts 70% of the light to the camera port and the remaining 30% to the eyepieces. 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.

5. When the camera port is not in use, be sure to cover it with the camera port dust cap.

Using Filters
Your VanGuard Microscope was supplied with either two or three colored filters depending on the model. Brightfield models come with a dispersion filter and a blue filter. Phase contrast models add a green filter.

1. Procedure for Using Filters:
   Locate the drop-in filter holder (see figure 15a) located on the top of the substage illuminator. Place the desired filter into the filter holder.

2. Dispersion filters can be used to soften harsh illumination for both viewing and photomicroscopy.

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 and therefore is beyond the scope of this manual. There are many sources available that explain proper filtering techniques and theories.

Maintenance

Replacing the Lamp
All Models

1. Before attempting to replace or remove the lamp, UNPLUG THE MICROSCOPE FROM ANY POWER SOURCE AND ALLOW SUFFICIENT TIME FOR THE LAMP TO COOL.

2. Lamp replacement is done by laying the microscope on its back and opening the trap door located on the bottom of the base by pulling on the release knob (see figure 16).
   Note: Be careful not to touch the glass lamp when replacing — use a tissue or other medium to grasp the lamp. This will prevent the oils from your hand from reducing lamp life. If contact is made with the lamp, clean the lamp with rubbing alcohol and allow a brief drying period.

3. Once the door is open, the lamp can easily be removed simply by grasping the lamp and pulling it from the fixture (see figure 17).

4. When replacing, insert the new lamp into the same fixture. Make sure that the pins on the lamp slide easily into the slots. You should not have to force the lamp.

Replacing the Fuse
All Models

1. If the microscope is plugged in but the lamp is not turning on, the fuses could be blown. To check the fuses, UNPLUG THE MICROSCOPE FROM YOUR POWER SOURCE and remove the 5 screws securing the back panel (see figure 18).

2. Once the screws are removed, carefully pull the rear cover away from the microscope. There is a small circuit board connected to the rear cover that houses the two fuses (see figure 19 – note: connecting wires removed for clarity). Avoid pulling on the rear cover hard enough to loosen any of the wires that connect the circuit board to the microscope.

3. To replace the blown fuse(s) (the wire inside is broken, or the glass is blackened) pull the fuse out of its holder and snap a new fuse in. You might need to use a screwdriver to lever the fuse out, but be careful not to scratch the circuit board.

4. Replace the rear cover and the five screws.

Replacement Lamp — 20W Halogen (Part No. 1400-20WHL)
Replacement Fuse — 0.25A, 250V (Part No. 1400-FS1) [2 required] Maintenance
All Models
The eyepieces and objectives on VanGuard Microscopes are coated. They should never be wiped while dry as any dirt or dust will scratch the coating. The surfaces should either be blown off with an air canister, or blown and cleaned with an air bulb and camel-hair brush. It is recommended to then use a lens cleaner. Apply with a cotton swab for a minimum of wetting, then wipe the surface clean with a quality lens tissue. Xylene, since it breaks down the bonding material holding the lenses, should never be used as a cleaner. Periodically your VanGuard Microscope should be fully serviced by a qualified service technician.

Specifications

1400BRi and 1400PHi Microscopes

[0.65 N.A., 0.40mm W.D., 0.45mm F.O.V. Plan] 100X [1.25 N.A., 0.25mm W.D., 0.18mm F.O.V. Plan]
Phase Contrast Objectives:
(Models 1423PHi/1433PHi)| 10X [0.25 N.A., 8.0mm W.D., 1.8mm F.O.V. Plan] 20X [0.40 N.A., 0.50mm W.D., 0.9mm F.O.V. Plan] 40X [0.65 N.A., 0.40mm W.D., 0.45mm F.O.V. Plan] 100X [1.25 N.A., 0.25mm W.D., 0.18mm F.O.V. Plan]
Stage Dimensions:| 160mm x 140mm
Stage Motion:| Right-Hand Coaxial Control/Rack & Pinion Drive
Stage Movement Range:| 50 x 75mm
Focusing Movement:| Coaxial Coarse & Fine Controls/Safety Autostop
Focusing Range:| 40mm
Focusing Graduation:| 2 Microns/Division
Brightfield Condenser:
(Models 1421BRi/1431BRi)| 1.25 N.A. Abbe Condenser with Iris Diaphragm
Phase Contrast Condenser:
(Models 1423PHi/1433PHi)| 1.25 N.A. Zernike Condenser with Iris Diaphragm including Brightfield & Darkfield Stops
Phase Centering Tool:
(Models 1423PHi/1433PHi)| Telescoping Eyepiece
Illumination:| 20W/6V Variable Quartz Halogen with Köhler Field Diaphragm
Fuses:| 0.25A, 250V [2 each]
Voltage:| 110V [Standard]; 220V [Optional]
Base Dimensions:| 225mm x 160mm
Overall Dimensions:| 225mm (L) x 160mm (W) x 400mm (H) [Binocular Models]
Weight:| 8.3kg [Binocular Models]

Printed in the USA
No. VGMNL120916-NS-1400BRi/PHi

Documents / Resources

| VEE GEE 1421BRi Van Guard 1400 Series Professional Compound Microscope [pdf] User Manual
1421BRi, 1431BRi, 1423PHi, Van Guard 1400 Series Professional Compound Microscope, Professional Compound Microscope, Compound Microscope, 1421BRi, Microscope
---|---
| VEE GEE 1421BRi Van Guard 1400 Series Professional Compound Microscope [pdf] User Manual
1421BRi, 1433PHi, Van Guard 1400 Series Professional Compound Microscope, Professional Compound Microscope, Compound Microscope, 1421BRi, Microscope

References

• Technical Support & Service – VEE GEE Scientific

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