Product/Service

Objective Heater

Source: Bioptechs Inc.
When live-cell imaging requires the use of high numeric aperture lenses, it is necessary to control the temperature of the objective as well
The Problem:

When live-cell imaging requires the use of high numeric aperture lenses, it is necessary to control the temperature of the objective as well. This problem exist because the optical coupling medium (oil, glycerin or water) acts as a thermal coupling medium and draws heat away from the specimen. The thermal mass of a fluid coupled objective is overwhelming when compared to the thermal mass of the cells. Unfortunately microscope manufacturers do not offer temperature controlled objectives, nor do they consider the need for thermal regulation in the design of their objectives. Bioptechs has developed and patented a product that solves this problem for the majority of immersion objectives.

The Solution:

To eliminate this thermal gradient, Bioptechs offers a patented Objective Heater System which includes a heater/sensor and an electronic controller. The heater/sensor is comprised of an adjustable thin film heating band which surrounds 3/4 of the diameter of the upper region of the central retracting tube of the objective. A surface probe thermal sensor positioned in the gap formed between the ends of the heating band measures the temperature of the objective. This heater/sensor assembly is supported on an adjustable metal mounting to fit objectives ranging from 16 to 28mm in diameter. The heater loop requires a minimum of 5mm longitudinal, physical contact with the cylindrical objective surface. In some cases there may be a decorative collar on the objective which must be removed in order to permit adequate surface contact.

Specifications:

The Controller is specifically designed to slowly heat the objective over a fifteen minute warm-up period then hold the objective at the set point value within 0.2 degrees C. The Controller operates from ambient to 50 degrees C and has special safety circuitry which utilizes a 0.9 degrees C error window to shut down the controller and sound an alarm if, for any reason, the temperature of the objective deviates after it has reached set point. A user calibration test is also built in to the controller.