The term dual view microscope is often confused with other terms because of its look and verbal implications. To avoid further confusion, remember that a dual view microscope is distinguishable from other microscopes because of its possession of a second eyepiece or viewing port. It is integrated vertically with the rest of the microscope.
Dual View Microscopes and Mistaken Identities
Occasionally, a dual view microscope is thought to be synonymous with a binocular microscope but it isn’t. A dual view microscope is monocular, actually, because it only lets an individual use one of his eyes. A binocular microscope, however, allows a person to use both eyes to view the magnified image of a sample. The same optical channel and objective lens are used for both eyepieces.
A dual view microscope is also different from a stereo microscope. A stereo microscope is more similar with a binocular microscope, but this time each eyepiece used has its own optical channel.
A forensic microscope is at times confused with a dual view microscope as well. In truth, however, a forensic microscope is a type of binocular microscope with dual stages to allow the user to compare two samples or specimens with each other.
Lastly, a dual view microscope is sometimes mistaken for a compound microscope. In this case, a dual view microscope may be a compound microscope but not all compound microscopes are dual view microscopes. A compound microscope today is a generic term for all modern microscopes able to use more than one illumination technique.
On the other hand, several teaching microscopes are examples of dual view microscopes. Teaching microscopes are designed to let a teacher and student work together and simultaneously view the sample under observation.
Uses of a Dual View Microscope
Simultaneous Use of Two Persons – There are many situations warranting two people to view a microscopic sample at the same time. Research partners can finish their work more quickly and easily if they can concurrently compare observations and notes. A teacher or tutor working one on one with a student can better explain lessons microscopy if he can guide the student step by step. Ultimately, two brains work better than one and if speed is essential then dual view microscopes are definitely a big help!
Camera Attachment – The second vertical eyepiece isn’t exclusively designed to accommodate another person. A camera eyepiece can also be attached through it. With a camera at work, soft copies of the magnified images of the sample are immediately obtained. The resulting photos can then be printed, stored in other devices and edited with various software programs.
Video Attachment – For live samples or specimens, a video eyepiece may be attached to the vertical viewing port. Once attached, it can record the movements of the specimen under observation and even transmit it to connected monitor screens.
How to Use a Dual View Microscope
Step 1 Set the microscope at a table with at least two of its sides available for you and your companion. Prepare the samples in advance. Plug the microscope to the nearest available electrical socket then switch it on only after making sure that the microscope is set at low power. Set the sample on the stage and secure it with stage clips.
Step 2 Start adjusting the microscope. Open the condenser and adjust to let in the right amount and intensity of light. Adjust the two parts responsible for total magnification of your dual view microscope: eyepieces and objective lenses. Adjust the coarse and fine focus knobs to better bring the image in focus.
Step 3 If you are changing objectives, make sure to hold the nosepiece’s collar and not the lens. The lenses of your microscope’s objective are very fragile and touching them could cause scratches to appear on the surface.
If you are changing illumination techniques, make sure you know the step-by-step procedure for it. For fluorescence microscopy, remember to switch on the Mercury or Xenon lamp on. Do not look in the oculars while changing filters. If you are going to use phase contrast illumination, make sure you know how to insert phase contrast plates and rings correctly as well as adjusting the condenser.
Step 4 Once you are done, make sure to switch off the dual view microscope properly. Clean your workspace and if necessary, clean the microscope as well with the appropriate materials. Return the dual view microscope to its proper place.
A dual view microscope is also ideal for home use if there is more than one person in your household interested in increasing the depth of their knowledge in life sciences.