Over the years, the comparison microscope has continued to evolve not only in its applications but also in its components and operations. A modern comparison microscope can be vital not only in forensic science but also in the industry and wherever microscopic comparisons are necessary.
Components of a Modern Comparison Microscope
Trinocular Eyepiece – The modern comparison microscope is no longer binocular. It is now trinocular to allow attachment of a digital accessory. Connecting a camera or a video-recording device will allow the forensic examiner or microscope user to save images of both samples. In some cases, however, the third eyepiece may also be used for another person to observe the specimens and make his own comparisons as well.
Low Power – Unlike other kinds of microscopes, the modern comparison microscope does not need to operate at high power. This is due to several reasons. Firstly, the specimens or samples under observation are of a size that requires only low magnification to make even their tiniest details visible. Secondly, the specimens being compared are rarely, if ever, transparent and would therefore once again make high power magnification unnecessary. Ultimately, specimens being observed and compared can usually be studied with the naked eye and a modern comparison microscope is only used just to further decrease percentage of human error.
Split-Screen View – When you look at a modern comparison microscope, your view will be split into two or more specifically between the two samples you’re observing. The split-screen view makes it easier for the user to view them as it prevents confusion when making comparisons. The line separating the images of both specimens can be, however, moved to make the user see less or more of one of the images. The field of view can also be adjusted to show only the right or left sample.
Overlapping – The modern comparison microscope now allows users to overlap images with each other. This is very useful if you wish to see the degree of similarity, for instance, between two samples of ballistic fingerprints. Better yet, the modern comparison microscope lets you adjust the degree of overlapping so that only the necessary parts will cover each other while the rest will remain uncovered.
Uses – Today, even low-end models of comparison microscopes can be used in observing a variety of samples such as paint fragments, bullets, hair samples, cartridge casings and other gun parts, fibers, wires, and even scratch marks.
Polarization – This optical process utilizes filters to dictate where light goes. Polarization results to better image resolution because it can adjust levels of color saturation and reduce reflections and glare. A polarizer and analyzer are both necessary to make polarization work.
Individual Controls – The modern comparison microscope allows the user to control the two microscopes separately. Separate controls are provided so that illumination and magnification may be adjusted according to the needs of the specimen.
Light Source – The modern comparison microscope today does not use one but two light sources for their operation. This will increase chances for the user to view samples or specimens clearly regardless of its type. Even better, the dual type of light source is provided for both microscopes. The positioning of these light sources may also be changed to ensure that the samples are illuminated from the ideal angle. Lastly, a cooling fan is almost always provided for a comparison microscope so that the lighting source won’t overheat.
The Models of Today’s Modern Comparison Microscope
Today’s lineup of modern comparison microscopes is impressive and provides users with a range of unique and valuable features.
Although high power is not generally a necessity for comparison microscopes, models like Leica FS400 assume that a user could happen to need high power once in a while and that’s why they provide up to 1500x in magnification. Such magnification levels will allow a user to discern even the smallest changes in color, texture, and structure.
Some comparison microscopes take the form of teaching microscopes, allowing professors to guide their students step by step in analyzing and comparing samples. One good example of this is the Mel Sobel KT.
None of these can, however, compare with the features offered by the Virtual Comparison Microscope from Intelligent Automation Inc. Among other things, it is capable of producing 2D views of three-dimensional surfaces and adjusting the user’s point of view.
Adjusting for image clarity is also made easier by the Virtual Comparison microscope and besides that, it utilizes the Integrated Ballistics Identification System. This software program allows the user to store, save, and organize images for an easier matchmaking process later on.
Check out http://www.comparison-microscope.com for more information about this type of microscope.