| Description | ASI's video auto-focus provides a simple focus control solution when using an analog video camera and any of ASI’s products with Focus Control including standard and piezo XYZ stage systems, linear and gantry stage systems, and stand-alone MFC-2000 focus controllers.
The auto-focus system uses the ASI's video auto-focus provides a simple focus control solution when using an analog video camera and any of ASI’s products with Focus Control including standard and piezo XYZ stage systems, linear and gantry stage systems, and stand-alone MFC-2000 focus controllers.
The auto-focus system uses the spatial information present in the analog video signal to determine a focus value. Firmware algorithms then maximize this focus value by adjusting the focal position with an ASI focus drive. The autofocus option requires a standard NTSC/RS170, PAL/CCIR, or S-Video analog video signal from a camera. Auto-focus with a digital camera is possible with a dual-output camera, or by incorporating ASI’s Photoport Beam Splitter.
ASI's auto-focus system has improved sensitivity and stability, 8X higher resolution, and incorporates an auto-calibration routine that automatically accommodates for diverse lighting conditions, specimen characteristics, and different objective powers.
Features - Fast Focusing - Typical accurate focus operation takes about one second, and can be configured for even faster operation.
- Accurate Focusing - Where there is a "best focus" plane, ASI's auto-focus will find it as well as any human operator.
- Objective Lens Protection - Once zeroed, auto-focus will not move more than 0.2 mm closer to the sample for safety.
- Focus Value Readout - The focus value is always displayed on the LCD readout so you can easily verify correct operation.
- Video Region Select - Rectangular subsection of the video frame may be selected as the active focus region. Selection is highlighted on monitor output.
- Auto Calibration - Performs a series of scans and selects various internal parameters to achieve optimal focusing.
- Focus Algorithms to fit your need - Auto-focusing can be accomplished via push-button on the controller or with commands from the host computer.
- Normal Full Range
- Hill Detect
... Read More | The MFC-2000 has been specifically designed to provide a high resolution and highly repeatable, means of controlling the focus/Z position of the microscope stage. Precise control of the microscope's focus is obtained through the use of a closed-loop DC servomotor employing high resolution encoders The MFC-2000 has been specifically designed to provide a high resolution and highly repeatable, means of controlling the focus/Z position of the microscope stage. Precise control of the microscope's focus is obtained through the use of a closed-loop DC servomotor employing high resolution encoders for positioning feedback. By using closed-loop control of the focus position, there is no chance that the focus point can be lost as can occur with open-loop stepper mo tors.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all design, the Z-axis drive is custom designed for each microscope, and when installed, they become an integral part of the microscope. A switch located on the control console operates a clutch that disengages the motor drive from the fine focus shaft when the drive is not needed. When disengaged, the position still displays and is still available for interrogation by computer, and the microscope can be focused manually without any drag or twisting cables.
Installation of the Z-axis drive requires no modification to the microscope other than removal of the fine focus knob and replacement of a back plate or base plate, depending on the particular microscope. All of the necessary hardware components, tools and detailed instructions, including a videotape on installing the drive, are provided with every unit.
The microprocessor-controlled MFC-2000 control unit provides for RS-232 communication with a host computer. High-speed serial communication using USB is also possible.
Features - Closed- loop DC servo control of z-axes for precise positioning and highly repeatable focusing
- Compact ergonomic tabletop control unit size is 6"D x 9"W x 3"H
- Backlit LCD display shows Z coordinates
- Utilizes ASI's proven Z-axis drives
- Microprocessor control with RS232-C serial communications
- Z-axis clutch for easy switching between manual and motor-driven focus control
- "Zero" and "Home" button for simple stand-alone operations
- USB serial computer interface
... Read More | Based on ASI’s proven DC servo motor technology, the SZ-2000 automates stereo zoom microscopes. The unit can be configured for motorized focus only, motorized focus with automated zoom control, or motorized focus with automated zoom control and an automated XY translation stage. The Z axis focus Based on ASI’s proven DC servo motor technology, the SZ-2000 automates stereo zoom microscopes. The unit can be configured for motorized focus only, motorized focus with automated zoom control, or motorized focus with automated zoom control and an automated XY translation stage. The Z axis focus resolution varies slightly depending upon the model of the microscope, with 0.8 microns being the smallest step size available on a Nikon SMZ800, shown.
An optional pair of footswitches permits hands-free operation of any axis featuring an increment mode, with continuous motion after the switch has been held down for 1.5 seconds. The increment step size per footswitch tap is selectable as well as the continuous mode speed. The footswitch option offers operators a convenient and ergonomic means of controlling the microscope for routine tasks such as embryo transplanting.... Read More |