SOP for Operation of Microscope

OBJECTIVE

This SOP describes the procedure for the operation of the BX41 System Microscope

SCOPE

Microscopes are used to study living organisms and their fundamental processes.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• It is the responsibility of the Microbiology Analyst to ensure adherence to this procedure.
• It is the responsibility of the QC Manager to follow the instructions of this procedure.

DEFINITIONS

The resolving power of a microscope is the distance two objects must be apart and still be seen as separate and distinct

PRECAUTIONS

• Do not place the microscope on a flexible surface, as this could result in blocking the air vents and cause overheating or a fire.
• To prevent obstruction of the natural convection-based air cooling of the microscope, make sure to leave at least 10 cm of free space between walls or other objects, the left, right, and rear sides of the microscope, and the lamp socket when installing the microscope.
• To avoid potential shock hazards and burns when replacing the light bulb, set the main switch at (OFF) then disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet in advance.

• Make sure the voltage selector switch located on the rear side of the microscope frame is set to conform with the local supply voltage. (When shipped from the factory, the switch is set to 220-240 V.)
• Always use the power cord provided by Olympus. If no power cord is provided, please select the proper power cord by referring to the section “PROPER SELECTION OF THE POWER SUPPLY CORD” at the end of this instruction manual. If the proper power cord is not used, product safety and performance cannot be guaranteed.
• Always ensure that the grounding terminal of the microscope and that of the wall outlet are properly connected. If the equipment is not grounded, Olympus can no longer warrant the electrical safety and performance of the equipment.
• Never insert metallic objects into the air vents of the microscope frame as this could result in electrical shock, personal injury, and equipment damage.
• The power cord may melt by the heat of the lamp socket if the cord comes in contact with it. Distribute the power cord at enough distance from the lamp socket.

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INTRODUCTION

• This microscope employs a UIS (Universal Infinity System) optical design and should be used only with UIS eyepieces, objectives, and condensers for the BX2 series. (Some of the modules designed for the BX series are also usable. For details, please consult Olympus or the catalog.) Less than optimum performance may result if inappropriate accessories are used.

PROCEDURE

• Stabilize the BX41 System Microscope following all precautionary measures explained above.
• Set the main switch to “ I ” (ON) and adjust the brightness.
• Select the light path (trinocular tube).
• Place the specimen on the stage.
• Engage the 10X objective in the light path.
• Bring the specimen in focus.
• Adjust the interpupillary distance.
• Adjust the diopter.
• Adjust the light axis.
• Adjust the aperture iris and field iris diaphragms.
• Engage the desired objective in the light path and bring the specimen in focus.
• Insert the required filters.
• Adjust the brightness.
• Start observation.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

• Clean all glass components by wiping gently with gauze. To remove fingerprints or oil smudges, wipe with gauze slightly moistened with a mixture of ether (70%) and alcohol (30%).
• The filter mount lens on the base is made of plastic. Do not rub it with a strong force to prevent damaging it.
• Do not attempt to use organic solvents to clean the microscope components other than the glass components. To clean them, use a lint-free, soft cloth slightly moistened with a diluted neutral detergent.
• Do not disassemble any part of the microscope as this could result in malfunction or reduced performance.
• When not using the microscope, keep it covered with a dust cover

PRECAUTIONS

• If the microscope is used in a manner not specified by this manual, the safety of the user may be imperiled. In addition, the equipment may also be damaged. Always use the equipment as outlined in this instruction manual.

ABBREVIATION

QC: Quality Control

ANNEXURE

Nil

REVISION HISTORY

Nil

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