III.

GIVE ATLEAST 5 WAYS OF PROPER CARE AND HANDLING OF

THE MICROSCOPE.
THE FF. ARE THE PROPER CARE AND HANDLING OF THE MICROSCOPE:
1. Handle with care
Improper handling is a common cause of many problems that occur with microscopes. When carrying a
microscope, hold it by the base and the metal support arm. The stage on a microscope is the flat plate where
the slides are placed for observation. Avoid picking your microscope up by the stage or the eyepiece holder, as
this can cause misalignment.
 
2. Look after lenses
When using your microscope, the objective lens is lowered to adjust the focus. However, be careful not to let
the lens touch the slide you’re looking at, as this can damage the lens. Furthermore, dirty lenses are
notoriously difficult to clean.
 
3. Keep covered
Microscopes should always be sold with dust covers. Whether transporting or storing your instrument, make
the most of the microscope bag and remember to keep your microscope covered when not in use. The
microscope’s eye tubes also need to be kept dust free. If the eyepieces need to be removed, cover the tubes
with caps and store them with the microscope.
 
4. Store safely
Ensure you store your microscope in a clean, dry space with good ventilation. Salt air or damp, for example,
can cause damage to equipment over time. Expensive, precision equipment should not be stored next to
solutions that may leak. Similarly, keep your microscope away from areas with potentially corrosive chemical
fumes. Such fumes can destroy lenses or corrode metal parts.
 
5. Keep clean
Oil immersion is a technique used to increase the resolving power of a microscope. Both the objective lens and
sample are immersed in a transparent oil of high refractive index so that high magnifications can be achieved
while still maintaining good resolution. It is essential to ensure careful cleaning takes place immediately after
using immersion oil and do not use damaging solvents.
 
6. Take care of bulbs
After using your microscope, turn off the illuminator and wait for it to cool down before putting it away. Allowing
the bulb to cool will extend its life and avoid the unnecessary cost of expensive replacements. Similarly, if used
constantly on full power, the bulb will overheat and blow. Remember too, to turn the illuminator off when not in
use.
 
7. Clean carefully
Microscope lenses are delicate. Treat them carefully to avoid any scratches. Use an aspirator to remove dust.
Moisten special lens paper with distilled water or appropriate cleaning solution. Rubbing gently in a circular
motion will remove any sticky residue. Never use anything abrasive on microscope lenses.
 
8. Refer to the user’s manual
Your microscope should be sold with a user’s manual and specialist spanners as required. Always refer to the
manual when making any adjustments to the microscope and use the supplied spanners. Never use force,
inappropriate tools or over-tighten when adjusting your microscope, as this will only result in equipment
damage.
 
9. Maintain your microscope
An annual maintenance check of microscopes is always a good idea. Moving parts should be cleaned and
lubricated. Similarly, inspect the power cords and plugs for safety.
 
10. Consider a professional service
contact Edu lab’s friendly team today for a range of products to help keep your laboratory microscopy
equipment in tip top condition.