Olympus Combines Confocal and TIRF Illumination in a Single Microscope System
Center Valley, PA, October 15, 2006 - Olympus now offers the first laser scanning confocal system that includes the ability to create and control evanescent wave fields for fluorescence via Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF) illumination. The Olympus Fluoview FV1000-EVA module adds computer control of the excitation laser light at or beyond the critical angle for TIRF and evanescent wave excitation. By combining the flexibility of a traditional laser scanning system with TIRF capabilities, the Olympus FV1000-EVA offers unparalleled system flexibility.
With the FV1000-EVA, scientists doing TIRF illumination can opt to use any of the numerous laser wavelengths designed for confocal illumination as well. These include 440nm, 488nm, 515nm, a new 559nm, and other wavelengths. TIRF images are acquired on a CCD camera. This CCD system requires serial TTL trigger outputs for switching the output wavelength when doing sequential fluorescence observations.
The FV1000-EVA features full computer control of the laser path so that when changing objectives during TIRF illumination, the instrument automatically realigns. The Fluoview's motorization allows the system to remember preset alignment positions, for enhanced ease of imaging and totally reproducible experimental protocols. The auto-adjusted, computer controlled alignment feature adjusts the penetration depth by realigning the beam. In addition, the angle of the laser can be fine tuned so that researchers using the TIRF microscopy mode can select penetration depths for imaging.
Having the option of TIRF or laser confocal imaging allows a scientist to acquire high signal-to-noise images of events occurring close to the specimen surface, and later do observation of intracellular structure with 3D observation at numerous Z-axis positions, complete with potential image reconstruction. The system is also appropriate for multi-user facilities.
For more information on the Olympus FV1000-EVA, contact Olympus America Inc., 3500 Corporate Parkway, Center Valley PA 18034-0610; phone 1-800-455-8236; visit www.olympusamerica.com/microscopes or email: olympusseg@econnextions.com.
About Olympus Scientific Equipment Group
Olympus Scientific Equipment Group provides innovative microscope imaging solutions for researchers, doctors, clinicians and educators. Olympus microscope systems offer unsurpassed optics, superior construction and system versatility to meet the ever-changing needs of microscopists, paving the way for future advances in life science.
About Olympus
Olympus is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering imaging solutions in healthcare, life science and photography. Olympus works collaboratively with its customers and its parent company, Tokyo-based Olympus Corporation, to leverage R&D investment in precision technology and manufacturing processes across diverse business lines. These include:
Gastrointestinal endoscopes, accessories, and minimally invasive surgical products;
Advanced clinical and research microscopes;
Lab automation systems, chemistry-immuno and blood bank analyzers and reagents; and
Digital and film cameras, and digital voice recorders.
In the U. S. and Canada, Olympus serves healthcare, scientific and commercial laboratory markets with integrated product solutions and financial, educational and consulting services that help customers efficiently, reliably, safely, and easily achieve superior results. Olympus is the leader in gastrointestinal endoscopy and clinical and educational microscopes. The company's consumer electronics business spans North and South America. For more information, visit www.olympusamerica.com.
