If not already done, turn on the computer (#1) and log in to Windows using your UdeM credentials
Remove the dust cover from the microscope
Turn on the camera (#2)
Turn on the LED lamp on the front of the microscope(#3)
Start-up NIS-Elements
During this procedure, you will:
Set up the microscope in a safe configuration
Load your sample
Find and adjust the focus
Once completed, your sample will be ready for acquisition.
If this has not been done yet, select the lowest-magnification objective, 4×.
The 4× objective is the safest to use due to its long working distance (17 mm). The sample will appear in sharp focus well before the objective gets close. It is recommended to always focus first using the safest objective. Since the objectives are parafocal, focusing with these objectives will make it easier to locate the sample when switching to higher-magnification objectives.
Place the test slide on the microscope stage, with the coverslip toward the objective.
Using a test slide will significantly reduce the time needed to set up the instrument.
If necessary, move the stage so that the sample is centered under the objective
Select the desired imaging mode (Brightfield or Fluorescence)
Ensure that the light is clearly visible through the eyepieces before continuing
Adjust the focus using the main focus knob while looking through the eyepieces until the image is perfectly sharp
First perform the initial focusing with the safest objective before selecting a higher-magnification objective.
After completing the initial focus:
Select the desired air objective (10×, 20×, 40×, or 60×).
The 60× objective is the best air objective because it has the highest numerical aperture (0.85).
Adjust the focus using the fine focus knob while looking through the eyepieces until the image is perfectly sharp.
Your sample is now ready for acquisition!
Files can be saved temporarily (during acquisition) on the local C: drive (desktop)
At the end of each session, copy your data to your external drive and delete it from the local C: drive
You can store your files on the D: drive (Data Storage). If you do, please create a folder per laboratory using the principal investigator last name. Within, create one folder per user (Firstname_Lastname).
In any case, your files should be removed from the C: drive.
Save your data
Close NIS-Elements
Transfer your data to the D: drive (Data Storage) or to your external drive and delete it from the local C: drive
Select the 4x objective and place the objectives in a safe position
Turn off the microscope (#3)
Turn off the camera (#2)
Turn off the computer
Cover the instrument with the protective dust cover
Take back your samples including ones in the microscope
