Basics

Normal operation of the StedyCon microscope

These documents are to reinforce, not replace, hands on training on the microscope.  All users MUST recieve training from Cell Imaging Staff prior to use of the instrument.

Stop: This is a first draft in progress. The information is not/may not be accurate.

Power On

1. Laser Box: 
   1. There is a power switch on the back.  This is normally left on.  If it is off (no lights on the front), turn it on.
   2. Turn on the Laser Key
2. Under table boxes:
   1. one
   2. two
   3. three
   4. Epifluorescent Lamp:
      1. Turn on the power switch
      2. Press the start button
3. Microscope:  Turn on the microscope with the switch on the lower right side near the back.
4. Computer and software: 

Interlocks

There are a number of interlocks that must be satisfied in order for the system to run

1. one
2. two
3. three
4. TL Arm Condenser:  This is two interlocks.
   1. TL Arm: The transmitted light arm must be forward.
   2. Condenser: the condenser filter wheel must be in the blocked position.
5. The last two interlocks are software

Wide field

To locate and focus on your sample, you will need to image in wide field (either bright field or epifluorescence).  This is all done with the controls on the microscope.  This will set off the interlocks on the StedyCon software, so you will have to restore light paths back to StedyCon mode before you start imaging.

Light sources:

Bright Field:

Epifluorescence:

Light Path:

Acquisition

Power Off

The power off procedure is basically the reverse of the power on.

1. Shut Down the system in the StedyCon software.  Wait for it to shut down.
2. Close the software.
3. Reverse order on the switches.
4. Turn off the laser key.
5. Normally, we do not turn off the laser box.