The AmScope PZK polarizing kit comes with a round stage and a polarizing filter, and provides basic polarization features when used with standard compound microscopes. The round stage can be rotated to change the direction from which light hits the specimen, and is graduated in 5-degree increments to record coordinates. The polarizing lens filters light from below the stage. The rectangular stage is 4-5/8 x 4 inches/116 x 100mm (W x D, where W is width, the horizontal distance from left to right; D is depth, the horizontal distance from front to back). The round stage has a 2-3/4" (70mm) diameter, and a 5/16" (8mm) diameter observation hole for use with standard objectives. The mounting lens has a 1-1/8" (28mm) diameter.
Microscopes are instruments used to enhance the resolution of an object or image. Types include compound, stereo, or digital. Compound microscopes use a compound optical system with an objective lens and an eyepiece. Stereo microscopes show object depth in a three-dimensional image. Digital microscopes are used to display an image on a monitor, rather than looking through a lens. Microscopes can have monocular (one), binocular (two), or trinocular (three) eyepieces, with varying magnification abilities. Magnification ability refers to the size of an image. Resolution, also known as resolvant power, refers to the clarity of the image. The interaction between field of view (FOV), numerical aperture (NA), and working distance (WD) determines resolution. Microscopes can control magnification through a fixed focus, or through a range of adjustments. They can also utilize LED, fluorescent, and mirror light sources to help control viewing capabilities. Microscopes are widely used in education, lab research, biology, metallurgy, engineering, chemistry, manufacturing, and in the medical, forensic science, and veterinary industries.
United Scope manufactures microscopy equipment and accessories under the brand name AmScope. The company, founded in 1996, is headquartered in Irvine, CA.