Compound microscopes are used in applications where higher magnification is needed. The compound optical system of the microscope consists of the objective lens and the eyepiece. The two lenses "compound" the magnification, allowing higher magnification (up to 1000x). Use a compound microscope in applications such as tissue samples, bacteria identification, and blood samples.

Some things to consider when choosing a compound microscope are:

• Magnification needed
• Light source- options include tungsten bulb, fluorescent, halogen, or a separate fiber optic illuminator
• Type of objective lens- achromatic, plan, plan-phase, depending on your application and image quality needs
• Built-in Digital Camera- for image capture and download to a computer or monitor
• Monocular (least expensive), Binocular (two eyepieces reduce eye strain), or Trinocular (two eyepieces and a third tube for digital camera attachment)
• Cordless or corded power

There are different types of compound microscopes, including versions for specialty applications.

Cole-Parmer Compound Microscopes offer excellent optical clarity at an affordable price. Available in monocular, binocular, and trinocular styles. Cordless versions are battery powered for use in the lab or the field.

Compound Microscopes with Built-in Digital Cameras allow you to capture an image of what appears in the microscope. Download the image to a computer or view it directly on a monitor.

Meiji Compound Microscopes feature Infinity-corrected optics for high image quality, contrast, and flatness of field. Available in binocular and trinocular versions, with semi-plan, U-plan, and achromatic objectives.

Specialty Microscopes include Polarizing Microscopes, Inverted Microscopes, Phase Contrast Microscopes, and Metallurgical Microscopes. Polarizing Microscopes are commonly used for the study of minerals in thin sections of rocks, but has applications with other materials such as ceramics, polymers, and crystalline materials. Inverted Microscopes have the objective lens below the stage - specimen is viewed from below. This allows you to view living organism in a larger container vs. having to mount them to a slide. Phase Contrast Microscopes enhance the contrast of transparent and colorless objects. Commonly used for biological samples, view live samples without killing them through staining. Metallurgical Microscopes illuminate the sample through the objective lens making them useful when viewing samples that are reflective such as metals.

Need help in selecting the best compound microscope for your application? Let our highly trained Application Specialists provide you with additional product specifications, guide you through compound microscope selection and maintenance, and offer support throughout the operational life of the compound microscope you purchase. They are thoroughly schooled on the products we sell and can answer the most challenging questions.