TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
PHASE CONTRAST MICROSCOPY
PROBLEM
CAUSE
CORRECTIVE MEASURE
Poor phase
contrast image
is obtained
The condenser phase annular
diaphragm image and the objective
phase plate do not match.
Adjust the phase annular
diaphragm so that it matches with
the objective phase plate.
The condenser phase annular
diaphragm and the objective phase
code do not match.
Insert the phase annular
diaphragm with the same phase
code as the objective into the
optical path.
The field diaphragm image is not
focused on the specimen surface.
Move the condenser up or down to
focus the image on the specimen
surface.
The phase difference of the
specimen is too large.
Prepare the specimen using a
different sealant and specimen
thickness
The type of phase objective does
not match the phase difference of
the specimen.
Select a phase objective suitable
for the specimen.