3
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your purchase of a National microscope, It is a well built, precision instrument and
carefully checked to assure that it reaches you in good condition. It is designed for ease of operation and
years of carefree use. The information in this manual probably far exceeds what you will need to know in
order to operate and maintain your microscope. However, it is provided to answer questions which might
arise, and to help you avoid any maintenance expense that may be unnecessary.
Carefully read instructions before operating microscope. Nomenclature used to describe components and
controls are identified on opposite page of the manual.
UNPACKING THE MICROSCOPE
Do not discard Styrofoam container or packing materials. Save in case instrument needs to be
transported or shipped for repairs. Remove microscope, dustcover, 0.90 mm “L” type hex key wrench and
warranty card from container. Remove all tape and packing material used to protect microscope during
shipment. Make certain lens surfaces do not come in contact with dirt, fingerprints or oil. Damage of lens
surfaces occurs when they come in contact with such contaminants, and image quality is reduced.
DESCRIPTION OF COMPONENTS
A. OCULAR LENS (eyepiece): Lens closest to the eye, magnifies the primary image formed by the
objective lens. The inclined eyepiece is equipped with a “pointer” that rotates as the eyepiece is
rotated.
B. OBJECTIVE LENS: Lens closest to the specimen, forms the first magnified image of the specimen.
C. OBJECTIVE TURRET (nosepiece): Revolving turret designed to hold objective lenses, permits
changes of magnification by rotating different powered objective lenses into optical path.
D. STAGE CLIPS: Two locked-on clips hold specimen slide in place on stage.
E. STAGE: Platform of the microscope where the specimen slide is placed. Stage has a special built-in
diffuser lens.
F. DISC DIAPHRAGM: Rotating disc located below stage, with 5 or 6 holes of various apertures,
designed to help achieve optimum resolution of the objective lens. Smaller apertures used for lower
magnifications and larger apertures used for higher magnifications.
G. SAFETY STAGE STOP: When properly adjusted, controls maximum upward travel of stage while
focusing, prevents higher power objectives from breaking specimen slides, prevents damage to
objective lenses. This safety stage stop has been pre-adjusted at the factory.
H. FOCUSING KNOBS: Focusing knobs located on each side of arm, when turned, raise or lower stage
to bring specimen into focus.
I.
ILLUMINATION: Built-in substage electric LED illuminator provides constant, pre-focused illumination
equal to 20 watt tungsten bulb. Powered by 3 each AA Alkaline batteries, no power outlet or electrical
cord is needed.
OPERATION OF MICROSCOPE
A. Always carry microscope by grasping arm with one hand and placing other hand under base.