Q: How can I ask you a question?

A: Just email me at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it Be sure to indicate if you want a personal answer or if you'd like me to post question and answer on this page.

Q: I am trying to see a fluorescent image but it is degraded by curved bands through it. What is causing this?

A: You are actually seeing two superimposed images. The first is the fluorescent image you are seeking. The second is a reflection image coming either from your sample or your microscope optics. It's allowed into the detector because either you have the wrong emission filter selected or it is faulty.

Q: Whenever I change my filter blocks in my MRC I can't get an image. What's happening?

A: The alignment of filter blocks is critical. Alas, the MRC range suffered from tolerances which it was up to the user to compensate for. Fortunately, the solution is simple. See my power point show "Block-change.pps" in the [Training Powerpoint Shows] page.

Q: How do I choose the best filters to image my fluorophor?

A: Easy! See the Power point show "Filter_Selection.pps" in the Training Powerpoint Shows page.

Q: I get dark bands across my image. What are they?

A: There will be four possible causes for this.

1. Vibration is reaching your microscope. It is particularly noticeable with higher magnifications.
2. Your laser in current limit mode or switched to low power. This allows the mains noise to pass through the power supply and modulate the laser beam.
3. A faulty galvanometer in your scan optics.
4. Stray light from a fluorescent lamp is getting into you microscope optical path.