Nikon Eclipse Series - User Manual

This document outlines the instructions for the Nikon ECLIPSE Series Teaching Head/Multi Teaching Head, an attachment designed to facilitate simultaneous microscopic observation by multiple users. It is compatible with various Nikon ECLIPSE microscope models, including Ni-E, Ni-U, Ci-E, Ci-S, Ci-L, 90i, 80i, 50i, E600W, E600, and E400.

Function Description

The Teaching Head/Multi Teaching Head serves as an optical splitter, allowing a single microscopic image to be viewed by a main observer and one or more secondary observers simultaneously. This is particularly useful in educational settings, collaborative research, or training scenarios where multiple individuals need to observe the same specimen. The attachment is available in various configurations to accommodate different numbers of observers and viewing arrangements:

Dual-viewing (face-to-face): Positions the main and secondary observers facing each other.
Dual-viewing (side-by-side): Positions the main and secondary observers next to each other. When a pointer is used, the system should be assembled so the secondary observer is on the right to ensure the pointer control is accessible.
Triple-viewing: Allows two secondary observers to be positioned face-to-face on either the left or right side of the main observer.
Multi-viewing for 5 persons: Accommodates two secondary observers face-to-face on both sides of the main observer.
Multi-viewing for 10 persons: A more extensive setup for a larger group of observers.

A key component of this system is the pointer unit, which allows an observer to highlight specific areas of interest within the field of view with an illuminated arrow. The pointer is available in two types: the Y-THP Pointer Unit with a built-in tungsten lamp and the Y-THPL LED Pointer Unit with a built-in LED.

Usage Features

To ensure optimal performance and a consistent viewing experience for all users, several steps are crucial:

Microscope Adjustment: The main observer must correctly adjust the microscope first. This includes proper focus and diopter adjustment. If the main observer's microscope is not correctly set, secondary observers will not be able to view a clear or correctly focused image, especially when changing objective magnifications.
Secondary Observer Diopter Adjustment: After the main observer has set up the microscope, each secondary observer must adjust their diopter settings using the diopter adjustment rings on their eyepieces to bring the image into sharp focus for their individual vision.
Pointer Operation:
- Arrow Focus: When a pointer is attached, the diopter adjustment rings on the left and right eyepieces should be turned to bring the arrow into focus. For easier adjustment, the arrow color can be changed to green and moved near the center of the field of view.
- Arrow Brightness Control: Both pointer units feature an arrow brightness control that also functions as an ON/OFF switch. Turning it clockwise increases brightness, while turning it counterclockwise until it clicks turns off the power and makes the arrow disappear.
- Arrow Rotation Dial: This dial allows users to change the direction of the arrow.
- Arrow Color Selector Dial: Users can switch the arrow color between green ("G" position) and orange ("R" position) by turning this dial.
- Arrow Control Stick: This stick is used to move the arrow within the field of view.
Brightness Management: Since the attachment splits the light, the image brightness decreases as the number of observers increases. The light source of the main microscope should provide sufficient intensity. ND filters, inserted in the main observer's section of the microscope, can be adjusted to achieve adequate brightness for normal observation. If a trinocular eyepiece tube T is used for the main observer section, and the ND filter is removed from the eyepiece tube mounting port of the MTH main splitter, the main and secondary observers will experience more uniform brightness, which is beneficial for TV observation.
AC Adapter Usage: Always use the AC adapter provided with the pointer unit to prevent accidents or damage.

Maintenance Features

Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the Teaching Head/Multi Teaching Head.

Lens and Filter Cleaning:
- Dust Removal: Use a blower to remove dust. If necessary, gently brush or wipe with a soft brush or gauze.
- Fingerprints/Grease: Use a soft, clean cotton cloth, lens tissue, or gauze moistened with absolute alcohol (ethyl or methyl alcohol). Avoid wiping the same spot twice.
- Immersion Oil: Petroleum benzine is recommended for cleaning immersion oil from objectives. If not available, methyl alcohol can be used, but it may require repeated wiping.
- Important Safety Notes: Absolute alcohol and petroleum benzine are highly flammable. Exercise caution around open flames and when turning power switches ON/OFF. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for these chemicals. Petroleum benzine should only be used for cleaning immersion oil from objectives, not for eyepiece tube entrance lenses or filters.
Cleaning Painted Components: Avoid using organic solvents like alcohol, ether, or paint thinner on painted, plastic, or printed components, as this can cause discoloration or peeling of printed characters. For persistent dirt, lightly wipe with a piece of gauze dampened with neutral detergent.
Storage:
- Store the instrument in a dry place to prevent mold formation.
- Store objectives, eyepieces, and filter cubes in a desiccator or similar container with a drying agent.
- Protect the instrument from dust by covering it with the provided vinyl cover.
- Before covering, ensure the microscope and other equipment are turned off and the lamphouse has cooled.
Lamp Replacement (Y-THP Pointer Unit only):
- Allow the lamp to cool before replacement.
- Turn the arrow brightness control counterclockwise until it clicks to turn off the arrow, then unplug the AC adapter.
- Push and turn the lamphouse cover approximately 45° counterclockwise to remove it.
- Position the illuminating part of the new lamp inward and insert it into the socket.
- Return the lamphouse cover to its original position by aligning the protrusion with the notch and turning it clockwise until it goes as far as it will go.
- Note: The built-in LED in the Y-THPL LED Pointer Unit cannot be replaced by the user.
Regular Inspection: Regular inspection by a dealer or Nikon representative is recommended to maintain optimal performance.

Safety Precautions:

Always read all instruction manuals thoroughly before use.
Only use the product for microscopic observation.
Do not disassemble any parts not explicitly mentioned in the manual.
Turn off power and unplug the power cord before assembly, connecting/disconnecting cables, or replacing lamps to prevent electrical shock.
Keep the instrument dry; immediately turn off power and unplug if liquid spills, and contact Nikon if liquid enters the instrument.
Be careful not to pinch hands/fingers during assembly.
Install the instrument on a stable, vibration-free surface, away from direct sunlight, dust, and warm/humid conditions (above 40°C or 60% humidity) to prevent mold or condensation.
Be aware that the product emits weak electromagnetic waves; avoid installing it near precision electronic devices or if it affects TV/radio reception.

Nikon Eclipse Series Specifications

General

Objectives	Plan Achromat, Plan Fluor, Plan Apochromat
Objective Lenses	4x, 10x, 20x, 40x, 100x
Magnification Range	40x to 1000x
Eyepiece	10x
Illumination	LED, Halogen
Observation Methods	Brightfield, Darkfield, Phase Contrast, Fluorescence
Focusing	Coarse and fine focusing
Stage	Mechanical stage
Condenser	Abbe condenser
Interpupillary Distance Adjustment	48-75mm
Diopter Adjustment	Typically +/- 5 diopters
Power Supply	100-240V AC
Nosepiece	Revolving nosepiece, typically with 5-7 objective positions