Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Koehler illumination is a proper illuminating light for microscopy. Every time you use the microscope for transmitted light work, you must align the condenser lens to assure Koehler illumination is optimal. If you don't to do this, you will have poor resolution, strange contrast artifacts, and unevenly lit pictures. Contrast can be adjusted using the condenser diaphragm. However, be careful when adjusting the condenser diaphragm, because if you close the it, it'll reduce resolution. To maximize both contrast and resolution, close the diaphragm just to the point where the image begins to get dark and no further.