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Olympus CKX53 – an inverted microscope for live cell applications

The very best image quality can be obtained by combining the Olympus CKX53 microscope with large sensor cameras (DSLRs with full-frame or APS-C sensors). Coupled with our LM microscope adapters, these state-of-the-art cameras deliver exceptional resolution, dynamic range and light sensitivity.

The Olympus CKX53 inverted research microscope was developed to address a variety of cell culture needs, including live cell observations, sample preparation, image capture and fluorescence observation. Thanks to its UV-resistant coating, the instrument can also be used in tandem with UV light sterilisation on a sterile workbench. Weighing in at just 7 kg, the Olympus CKX53 is easy to move with just one hand by holding the neck of its observation tube. The dependable Olympus UIS-2 objectives (universal infinity-corrected) guarantee high-quality images.

The Olympus CKX53 can be used for bright field, phase contrast (entry-level and standard configurations) and fluorescence imaging (various illumination systems and high quality fluorescence filter modules are available). The unique integrated Phase Contrast (iPC) system from Olympus simplifies and accelerates observation workflow by dispensing with the need to change or centre the ring slit repeatedly. In addition, the novel Olympus inversion contrast (IVC) technique enables three-dimensional images of objects of any shape or transparency using 10x objectives. A 2x objective, which, together with the aperture diaphragm slider, achieves a field of view of 22 mm over areas of up to 11 mm in diameter, allows even transparent objects in the sample to be clearly identified.

To make it suitable for photomicrography applications, the Olympus CKX53 is equipped with a trinocular tube with a dovetail ring. With our LM digital adapters, most DSLR and system cameras can be attached to the microscope in a few easy steps.

From an ergonomic perspective, the CKX53 is well designed, especially considering the eyepieces that are inclined at a 45-degree angle and the handy positioning of its control elements. Illumination is provided by an LED light source, and thanks to the large working distance, sample containers of up to 190 mm in height can be examined. A number of stage extensions are available as well. The revolving four-objective nosepiece is operated manually.

Photography: 

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.