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Common issues with Microscope that require technical support
Learning ObjectivesCommon issues with Microscope that require technical support
Removable parts in a microscope that need replacement include objectives, eyepieces, light bulbs, fuses. In case of repair/ technical support, only competent agency that handles maintenance of instruments should be contacted. Laboratory personnel should never attempt to dismantle any part of the microscope for repair.
Some of the common technical problems encountered, their likely causes and solutions are given in the table below.
| Problems | Likely causes | Solutions |
| The viewing field is too dim | Condenser is too low Condenser iris diaphragm is closed |
Raise condenser to correct its position Open the diaphragm properly |
| Dark shadows in the field that move as you turn the eyepiece | Surface of eyepiece is scratched Eyepiece is dirty |
Replace the eyepiece Clean the eyepiece |
| Image with the high-power objective is not clear | Slide is upside down There is an air bubble in the oil There is dirt on the objective |
Turn the slide over. Move 100x lens quickly from side to side Clean the lens |
| Image with the low-power objective is not clear | There is oil on the lens There is a layer of dust on the upper surface of the objective |
Clean the lens |
| Mechanical stage is not moving, too stiff or does not stay up | Poor tension adjustment on the mechanical stage Solidified lubricants |
Adjust tension with adjustment knob Needs service |
In case, the viewing field is still dim and cloudy, consider the following possible causes and contact the competent personnel for cleaning/ repair:
- Massive growth of fungus on the lenses or prisms due to storage in a high-humidity environment
- Penetration of immersion oil between the lenses of the objective
- A damaged objective (as a result of careless focusing, dropping, rough changing of slides).
Resources
1. Module for Laboratory Technicians
2. Laboratory diagnosis by sputum smear microscopy
Assessment
| Question | Answer 1 | Answer 2 | Answer 3 | Answer 4 | Correct answer | Correct explanation | Page id | Part of Pre-test | Part of Post-test |
|
What is the possible cause for dark shadows in the field?
|
The scratched eyepiece or dirty eyepiece
|
Broken lens | Solidified lubricants | Stage stuck | 1 |
Dark shadows in field appear due to a scratched eyepiece or dirty eyepiece.
|
Yes | Yes |
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