Zoom Microscope / Stereo Microscope

Zoom microscopes refer to either stereo zoom microscopes or to a macro zoom lens system. With a stereo microscope, light is reflected from the surface of a sample in order to obtain high-resolution, low magnification images. Stereo microscopes have two objective lenses that provide two separate viewing angles with which to observe the reflected light thus providing a 3D image of the sample. Because of their low-magnification and ability to provide 3D images, these microscopes are good tools for biological or material studies that require detailed observation of larger samples. Applications include dissection, forensic observation, characterization of material surfaces, and more.

Depending on the type of observation being done, different features may be required from a stereo microscope. Things to consider before purchasing include whether a fixed or a zoom stereo microscope is required, the zoom range, field of view and optical range, whether the system is binocular or trinocular (trinocular systems have a third eye tube for camera connection), and type of illumination.