Choosing Microscopes for Your School Activities

Learning experts and authorities emphasize a more holistic approach to transfer of knowledge. Learning is no longer limited to rigid and straightforward verbal discussions. Not every learner is a verbal one. Based on the theory of multiple intelligences, which is now a widely accepted school of thought in education, there are different ways to learn best. Thus, academic discussions should also integrate a wide variety of activities to complement the verbal instruction and communication. For science lessons, exploratory activities play an integral part. Likewise, the effectiveness of these science exploration activities requires the use of the right tools and equipment, including the microscope. Whether you are a teacher, school head or parent, here are certain factors you should take into account so you can buy the right one from your Seiler microscope dealer. These factors also dictate the cost or price of the unit that you should buy.

Types of microscope. Microscopes are not created equally. Microscopes are generally divided into two categories, namely, compound and stereo. The most common type is the former. Compound microscopes allow the user to utilize three or four medium to high magnifications in viewing small specimens. Although not the standard rule, magnifications of compound microscopes are often available in 40X, 100X, 400X and even 1000X. For students and professionals pursuing biology and forensics, the compound microscope would be a better fit. On the other hand, stereo microscope comes with low magnifications ranging from 10X to 50X highly suitable for viewing large solid objects. Since either a compound or a stereo microscope requires a significant monetary investment, it could be tempting to just buy a cheaper and low-quality model. However, skimping on your Seiler microscope dealer is certainly not a good idea.

Illumination type and power source. If you have seen earlier models of microscopes, you would surely notice that built-in illuminators did not yet exist. As a matter of fact, mirrors were the ones being used for this function. However, this improvised illuminator in the form of a mirror has limitations in its effectiveness. Then, built-in illuminators were introduced and made available in different types. Noted to be the most affordable, the tungsten illuminators operate through standard incandescent light bulbs. The major drawback of this type of illuminator is its relatively short lamp life. You can also get a microscope that uses fluorescent illuminators, either battery-powered or AC-powered. Fluorescent illuminators last longer than the tungsten type. When LED illuminators were introduced, the equally-priced fluorescent illuminators were no longer noticed. Because of their low power consumption, LED illuminators are used in portable microscopes. Their lamp life is considered the most impressive. Despite its high cost, the quartz halogen illuminators are the most highly regarded by industry experts. They enable viewing of the real colors of the specimens but can consume too much power. Quartz halogen illuminators cannot be operated on battery and have relatively short lamp life. In addition, not all models already have quartz halogen illuminators. It is highly possible that your preferred unit only has LED illuminators.