How to Store a Compound Light Microscope After Use
Compound light microscopes are microscopes with multiple lenses arranged on a nosepiece. The lenses are movable and are used to change magnification. Compound light microscopes are used in laboratories and in science classrooms as teaching tools. The many movable and delicate parts of a compound microscope make it an expensive piece of equipment. Therefore, great care is necessary to assure they remain clean and in working order. Learning how to store a compound light microscope properly is an important part of its care.
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Instructions
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Examine the stage and make sure it is clear from any slides. If a slide remains on the stage, remove and either discard or properly store it.
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Clean both the eyepiece and objective lenses with a piece of lens paper. Other types of cloths may scratch the lenses or leave lint behind, so it is important to use paper specifically designed to clean lenses. Take extra care to clean oil immersion lenses, which may have oil on them.
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Leave the microscope in the proper position for the next user. Although not essential for proper maintenance of the microscope, it is good etiquette to leave the scope in a position so that each user knows which setting to expect when they begin using it. Turn the nosepiece so that the lowest objective lens (usually four X) is the one in focus. Shift the stage so that it is central to the nosepiece and not over to one side more than another. Turn the knob so that the nosepiece is in as low a position as possible.
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Turn off the microscope light source. Loosely wrap the cord around the base. Wrapping it too tightly can damage the cord internally. Secure the plug under a loop of the cord so that it does not come unraveled.
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Cover the compound light microscope with its plastic cover. Covers are generally cut so they fit on the microscope in a specific way, so be sure it is on properly to maximize the amount of dust protection.
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Keep the microscope on the lab bench, if possible. Occasionally it is necessary to move compound microscopes between uses (e.g., in a classroom setting), but if the microscope is in an area specified for microscope use, leave it sitting on the bench. If you must store the microscope, be sure you use a case or cabinet that is free from dust, low in humidity and away from direct sunlight. Carry it with one hand firmly on the arm of the microscope and the other hand supporting it from underneath. Take care not to jar the compound light microscope while you are moving it or when you set it in the cabinet.
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