LM Direct Imager SLR adapter: professional adapter solution for Zeiss microscopes with 52 mm external thread phototubes
Zeiss is one of the leading names for high-quality stereo and laboratory microscopes. With our new compact LM Direct Imager SLR adapter with built-in plan achromatic precision optics, large-sensor cameras – such as digital mirrorless system cameras, DSLR cameras, special-purpose microscope cameras, high-speed cameras, industrial cameras or C-mount cameras – can be attached to Zeiss microscopes in a few quick and easy steps.
Many Zeiss microscopes, such as the Axio Lab.A1, Axiolab 5, Axio Examiner.A1, Axio Imager, Axio Observer, Axio Scope, Axiovert, Stereo Discovery.V12, etc. have a phototube with an external diameter of 52 mm.
Zeiss phototube with an external thread of 52 mm
We are offering a compact, professional adapter solution that is specifically tailored for this phototube and can be used with cameras that have large sensors, such as APS-C or full-frame cameras. The adapter’s built-in precision optical system ensures excellent image quality.
The adapter is attached directly to the phototube of the microscope. The dedicated bayonet adapter for the camera is included in the scope of delivery. The adapter assembly is attached directly to the camera body.
Advantages of the Direct Imager SLR adapter:
- Integrated precision optics for superior image quality
- Large field of view without peripheral darkening
- Compact, low-profile design
- High light-gathering power
- Attractive price
Larger sensor sizes in cameras, such as M4/3, APS-C or full-frame formats, create a wider field of view (FOV). Full-frame cameras capture the largest possible field of view (100%) without any vignetting. With APS-C sensor cameras, the field of view that can be obtained at maximum image quality is slightly smaller.
Comparison of FOV size:
The adapter solution also comes with a filter holder with a 37 mm internal thread as standard, which accommodates commercially available optical filters (polarising filters, grey filters, UV filters, IR filters, etc.). The filter can be attached just below the level of the camera bayonet adapter. This is an important feature for many special applications in life sciences.
Shown below: LM adapter solution with polarising filter and camera bayonet mount
Demo photo using a polarising filter:
Compatible Zeiss microscopes:
Axio Examiner.A1 |
Axio Lab.A1 Axio Lab.A1 FL-LED Axio Lab.A1 MAT Axio Lab.A1 Pol Axio Observer.A1 Axio Observer.A1 Entry Axio Observer.D1 Axio Observer.D1 + ApoTome Axio Observer.D1 Entry Axio Observer.D1 Mid Range Axio Observer.D1 TIRF 3 Axio Observer.Z1 Axio Observer.Z1 Cell Observer Axio Observer.Z1 Cell Observer SD Axio Observer.Z1 High End Axio Observer.Z1 TIRF 3 Axio Observer.Z1m ACR Axio Scope Axioskop 40 Axioskop 2 plus Axioskop 2 mot puls Axioskop 2 FS plus |
Axio Scope.A1 |
The new mirrorless system cameras and DSLR cameras available on the market are very well suited for interfacing to a microscope and deliver high-quality images at an unbeatable price/performance ratio. The modular construction of our adapter solutions enables compatibility with almost all major camera brands – all you need to do is change the camera’s bayonet adapter.
As an alternative, the universal, flexible widefield adapter solution of our “Pro” line with C-mount connection would also be an option.
11.05.2023Photography:
Fitting the microscope to digital single-lens reflex (DSLR), mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras (MILC ), digital single-lens mirrorless (DSLM) or C-mount cameras is easy with our LM digital SLR adapters, which feature a plan achromatic optical system. Our products make it possible to capture top-quality microscope images. To help you select the adapter that is right for your camera, we have set up an online configurator on our website. You can also email us – ideally with attached photographs of your microscope.
Modern DSLR and single-lens mirrorless (DSLM) offer the latest technology and are generally very well suited for microscopy applications. Most of them can be controlled remotely via PC/Mac. Because of their high sales volumes, they offer an excellent price/performance ratio compared to special-purpose microscope cameras.
Features of top DSLR and single-lens mirrorless cameras (DSLM):
- Large, powerful full-frame sensors (36 x 24 mm)
- Sensor resolution of 61 megapixels or 240 megapixels with Pixel Shift technology
- High light sensitivity (ISO 400,000+)
- Extensive dynamic range (up to 15 aperture stops/f-stops)
- Short exposure times (1/8000 second) up to 1/32,000 seconds using the digital shutter
- 4K Ultra HD or 8K Ultra HD video function
- Live video capture on external monitors in ultra HD quality
In most cases, these cameras are significantly more powerful than microscope cameras with smaller sensors (1/2" or 2/3"). On our website you will find our current camera recommendations and a camera ranking which is specifically tailored to microscopy applications.