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Table of Contents
Since microscopes are a critical instrument this section provides information on both microscope techniques and equipment. There are already many good sites on microscope techniques so the focus will be more on discussing which ones are relevant for ICs and providing external links to provide more information.
Integrated camera and microscope
These are of course ideal. They will be the most reproducible and often have higher quality CCDs. They are, however, more expensive.
Camera
Point and shoot cameras seem to work best as their apertures are better matched to the eyepieces found on microscopes. Some older microscopes, such as a Unitron N series, that were built to work with Polaroid style cameras might adapt to larger professional style lenses with appropriate modifications.
Jury-rigged eyepeice cameras
If your camera has a zoom setting, make sure to use it to get rid of the eyepiece ring.
Microscope
A biological microscope works well enough for some initial tests on older technology. However, you will likely need something more advanced such as a confocal microscope or metallurgical microscope. If you have access to a SEM/TEM, those will likely have imaging equipment already built into them to capture digital images.
There seems to be no inherent difference in objectives between a metallurgical and a compound biological microscope. However, there are a number of fine points if you are trying to get a good image. An objective's threading and microscope's focusing system can also differ. See the following:
Infinity optical systems: http://www.microscopyu.com/articles/optics/objectivespecs.html Objective specifications: http://www.microscopyu.com/articles/optics/objectivespecs.html
Leveling images
Make sure the stage is very level with respect to the lens. This can be checked by moving the die from one side to another. You will also notice images that are in focus on one side and out of focus on the other. Levelling mechanisms:
- Kinematic or other precision mechanical device
- Glass on clay or other soft material. Apply pressure to vary angle
Stitching
Follow the Hugin tutorial for stitching scanner images. If you have an XY stage, you can take out the rotation parameter since it should be negligible.
Field Stop (FS) and Aperature Stop (FS)
Properly adjusted can give a real improvement in image quality. Unadjusted (Mit20x objejective):
Adjusted (Mit20x objejective):
