If you are purchasing a stereo microscope, then yes - it is literally time for you to select the appropriate stand. Unlike a compound microscope which remains in a fixed position, stereo microscope heads can be mounted to a variety of stands. This allows you the flexibility to configure a stereo scope to specifically suit your needs.
There are generally five types of stands that are used with stereo microscopes.
Rack or Pole Stands are sort of the default option for stereo microscopes. They offer a wide base for stability and can be placed directly on your workbench. A pole stand allows for height adjustment to accommodate sample size. A plain stand is a type of rack stand that does not include any built-in illumination. However, there are versions of these stands that have LED transmitted and reflected illumination. These stands will typically only have coarse focus adjustment, but there are a few versions that also offer fine focus. Rack or Pole Stands are commonly used in the classroom for botany, entomology, and more.
With a Boom Stand, the stereo head is mounted to a horizontal pole (arm) that is attached to the vertical pole. This allows the user greater freedom when viewing multiple samples away from the immediate work area. Boom stands come with either a wide base or table clamp. For extra smooth movements, stands with ball bearings are also available. Boom stands are typically used in industrial settings for soldering, inspection, and can be used for other applications like small rodent surgery, forensics, and more.
Articulated Arm Stands are similar to boom stands, however the arm has multiple sections and flexible joints to provide more options for viewing large objects. These stands can be clamped to a table or mounted on the wall. An articulated arm stand is a great way to save space on your workbench. You can move the entire system away when you do not need to use it. It also offers the ultimate flexibility for observing your samples, allowing you to scan, or precisely position the microscope. Articulated arms are often used for industrial applications and jewelry/engraving.
Diascopic stands are similar to standard rack stands, however they have a sub base which contains a rotating mirror and light source. The mirror indirectly directs the light through the glass plate on the microscope stand to hit your sample. This indirect light provides contrast that is needed for applications like embryo transfer.
There are two styles of darkfield stands, one is used for gemological applications (diamond grading) and the other is used for biological samples like zebrafish or other invertebrates.
And that just scratches the surface when it comes to stands. There are endless options/styles for each type of stand mentioned above. For more information on stereo microscope stands including additional features and illumination options, contact one of our microscope experts at sales@microscopecentral.com.
