Standard Version
The optical adapter 
allows a high intensity light source to be coupled to a microscope epifluorescence illumination port directly, or far more commonly, via a liquid light guide. The liquid light guide is included in the price of the optical adapter and is highly recommended as it allows the filter changer and lamphouse to be positioned remotely from the microscope or cuvette preventing the risk of vibration and /or electrical interference. If using the optical adapter with our light source (or the reflector style housings from AMKO, PTI etc.) then this is simply coupled by mating the connecting ring with that on the lamphouse. The two units can then be fixed firmly together using the radial grub screws provided. If using condenser style housings such as those supplied by Zeiss or Nikon then please contact us if connection does not appear immediately obvious.
On removing the lid from the optical adapter the following should be visible:
- Lamphouse mating ring to allow input connection.
- Slots for neutral density gauze material or shutter plate with three pieces of gauze fitted. Experience has shown us that the lamp produces more than sufficient light for biological fluorescent applications and that optical filters can be damaged if exposed for prolonged periods. Protective heat filters are not only susceptible to damage themselves, but can significantly attenuate uv excitation light. The practical solution is to use one or more pieces of metal gauze, providing truly neutral density filtering.
- Optional shutter based on a rotary solenoid action against a return spring. The default position of the shutter is closed thus helping to prevent inadvertent damage to filters and photobleaching of cells whilst not recording. Alternatively a two-position filter changer may be fitted. In both cases control is carried out using a switcher module in the main system box via the three-core cable provided.
- Removable 25mm filter holder. 25mm filters are recommended for single excitation experiments as the larger aperture helps to prevent heat damage.
- Iris diaphragm to provide optical attenuation if required. An opening of about 10mm is suggested to allow good throughput whilst preventing excess stray light.
- Shoulders for accurate location of rotary filter changer (see below).
- Light guide mounting ring with radial fixing grub screw or epifluorescence connecting plate.
Simplified Version
If your system does not include a filter wheel or electronic shutter it may be configured with a simplified version of the optical adapter. This piece comprises of a large aluminium tube with slots for a manual shutter plate and metal gauze. As this component cannot be fitted with an electronic shutter, great care must be taken to protect the filters when not in use. 25mm filters can be fitted into this assembly by removing the front section of the adapter as shown in the diagram above.
