Using a Microscope

Before using a microscope, it is important to be familiar with all the parts. See the diagram below to identify the parts of a microscope. Not all microscopes are identical, so some parts may be in a different location, or have a slightly different appearance.

The steps to use a microscope are provided below.

Image of a microscope with the following parts labeled. From top left, clockwise, the parts are the ocular lens, head, arm, stage controls, course adjustment, fine adjustment, on/off switch, base, light source, diaphragm, condenser, stage, stage clips, and the objective lens

Steps to Use the Microscope:

1. Make sure the lowest objective is clicked into place.

2. Place the microscope slide on the stage with the specimen side up. Use the stage clips to hold the slide in place.

3. Turn on the microscope. Ensure the light turns on.

4. Turn the diaphragm until maximum light is emitted through the condenser.

5. Look though the eye piece and turn the stage controls to center the specimen over the light source.

6. While looking through the eyepiece, slowly turn the coarse adjustment to bring the specimen into focus.

7. Slowly turn the fine focus knob to bring the specimen into fine focus.

8. After observing the specimen, rotate the next highest objective into place. Be sure the objective does not hit the stage or slide as it is rotated.

9. Look through the eyepiece and slowly turn the fine focus to bring the specimen into focus.

10. Repeat steps eight and nine with the next highest objective.

11. When finished viewing the specimen, remove the slide from the stage.

12. Power off the microscope.

13. Rotate the objectives back to the lowest one.

14. Use the stage controls to center the stage in the middle of the microscope.

15. Clean the eyepieces and lenses using lens paper.

16. Use the microscope cover to protect the microscope from dust.