[lm-announce] IMPORTANT - Damage to LMF Spectris

[Sam Swift]

Dear All,

Over recent weeks we have noticed that the DAPI signal on the LMF  
spectris has been very weak.  The reasons for this are as follows -

1.  oil on the dichroic mirror beneath the lenses
2.  oil on the lenses

I have just finished checking every component in the optical train  
for damage and dirt, which has taken me and Calum the best part of 4  
hours.  The 60x lens is a complete write off, as is the dichroic  
mirror.  I have ordered replacement parts, total cost £4500.  I have  
replaced the dichroic with a spare, so the microscope is usable with  
the 40x and 100x lenses.  I have noticed similar issues with the  
other DeltaVisions; this is not unique to the LMF spectris.

Please remember, when using ANY microscope in the facility that you  
must clean the microscope objective lenses and stage before and after  
use, and that you must be extremely careful with the immersion oil.   
If you notice anything untoward, come and find a member of LMF staff  
- myself, Calum, Paul or Emma - and we will help you.  If you're not  
sure what you're doing we are more than happy to provide further  
training and advice.  I will be absolutely delighted to give anybody  
who would like it a refresher on microscope care; I will not take it  
as an admission of guilt.

Thank you,
Sam



Dr Sam Swift
Head of Microscopy
MSI/WTB Complex
University of Dundee
Dow St
Dundee
DD1 5EH

Tel: 01382 386412