Operation of the DV microscope is similar to any epifluorescent system.  The major difference is how the specimen is controlled in the X, Y and Z axes.  In addition, most filters and shutters are controlled electronically.  The stage is moved by nano-controlled motors in all three directions. A joy stick controls X and Y motion, while focusing is accomplished either manually or using the software.  Selecting between transmitted light or epifluorescence is done using the software or the keypad.  Light intensity from the halogen light source is controlled by the rheostat on the front of the microscope stand. 

To view through the oculars, rotate the port selector fully clockwise.  When using epifluorescence, switch between emission filters to view different fluorochromes using the emission filter wheel under the objectives.  This wheel controls all three filter sets (excitation, emission to the camera and emission to the oculars).  The excitation filters, emission filters for the camera and the neutral density filters can be controlled separately using the software. 

To record images, rotate the port selector fully counter-clockwise to direct light to the camera.   Excitation filters and neutral density filters are contained in filter wheels, controlled electronically by the keypad or software.  Excitation light is directed to the microscope stand through fiber optics.

The Optivar slider moves a lens which, when in position (slider pulled out), can increase the magnification of any objective by 1.6x.  The change in pixel size is acknowledged using the software.

The specimen holder holds a normal glass slide in the inverted position.  Coarse X movement is done using the black knob on top.  We also have an adapter that will hold multi-chamber coverslips and 35mm petri dishes. 

What is not shown is the environmental chamber that encompasses most of the microscope.  The chamber is useful for two reasons.  First, with the associated heater, it can maintain the environment in, and around, the instrument at a constant temperature (32°C - 42°C).  Second, it serves to prevent air conditioning drafts from causing miniscule temperature-related expansion/contraction changes that can effect focus over extended, (time-lapse) periods.

In addition, a 488nm laser is available for photobleaching and photoactivation experiments.