Integrated System Lets Microscopes and Digital Cameras to Work Seamlessly in Scientific Research Environments

MELVILLE, N.Y., May 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Nikon Instruments Inc., a leader in the development of advanced optical microscopy, today unveiled a digital color cooled camera head, the DS-5Mc, and the DS-U1 camera control unit, featuring superior microscope control, digital viewing and capture of images in standard and low-light applications including brightfield, fluorescence and darkfield to the Nikon Digital Sight Imaging System.

"The Digital Sight family of imaging products is another example of Nikon's continuing focus on advancing microscopy through innovation," said Stan Schwartz, Vice President, Microscopy Product and Marketing Division, Nikon Instruments. "This system is the first convertible photomicrographic digital camera and leads the way in the conception and realization of a full range of versatile all-in-one microscope products. Image capturing has become a priority in microscopy, and the demand for quality combined with multiple functions increases every day. The DS-5Mc-U1 provides researchers with the preeminent technology available for digital imaging and capture."

Researchers now have an integrated imaging system seamlessly connecting microscopy and digital photography under intelligent software control. The new camera head and U1 control unit expands the functionality and versatility of the original five mega-pixel network-ready DS-5M-L1, resulting in a versatile system easily configurable for demanding user requirements. The system cost-effectively delivers the ability to capture extremely precise, detailed images under demanding lighting conditions.

The DS-U1 camera control unit is equipped with USB 2.0 as its interface for seamless control and quick image streaming and capture. Installation is fast and easy requiring one USB 2.0 connection to a computer or laptop, and is easily scalable by adding Nikon's ACT-2U image application software that provides a convenient GUI for efficient image capturing and analysis as well as simple reconfiguration control. A TWAIN software interface is also available. The DS-L1 camera control unit is a self-contained, stand-alone system including an integrated viewing monitor with the ability to connect to computer network systems via its LAN interface.

The DS-5Mc color cooled camera head employs a 2/3 inch, five million pixel color matrix CCD for high definition specimen images of up to 2560 x 1920 pixel images and extraordinary color reproduction. Observers can easily detect details of minute structure and color differences and take advantage of DS-5Mc's long exposure time capability (up to 600 seconds) for low light applications and minimizes thermal background noise. With a Peltier thermoelectric cooling device, the CCD can maintain its temperature to as low as 20 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature.

The DS-5M camera head has the same specification, but without Peltier cooling and is limited to 6 second exposures. All four components consisting of the two camera control units and the two camera heads are interchangeable to meet the requirements of any microscope documentation application.

Nikon's ACT-2U Windows PC application software for the DS-U1 system gives users the opportunity to establish custom settings and also provides tool functions that allow for count-marking and range measurement between two points on a specimen. Nikon enables pre-programmed image modes to achieve optimum results in every observation method without spending time to re-set the camera for every photo session. In addition, it also features thumbnail display, allows for text and pen input and offers researchers the ability to superimpose saved images over a live image allowing for easy comparison.

About Nikon Instruments Inc.
Nikon Instruments Inc., is a global leader in the development of advanced optical technology. Its product line includes microscopy equipment, digital imaging, precision measuring and semiconductor wafer-handling equipment. Nikon is committed to providing technologically advanced instruments that offer optimal versatility, performance and productivity. Nikon combines state- of-the-art capabilities with innovative designs to produce optically superior, ergonomically friendly products for cutting-edge scientific research, medical and industrial applications. For more information visit the Nikon website at http://www.nikonusa.com. Product related inquiries can be directed to Nikon Instruments at 800-52-NIKON