How do I get better at using an binocular compound optical microscope? I'd like to hear hints and tips I'm also interested in theories as to why I find this such a challenge, as it seems to come naturally to most people. [more inside]
posted by Tapioca on May 11, 2009 - 12 answers

How powerful of a microscope do I need to identify spores when mushroom hunting? Is 100x enough? [more inside]
posted by tweaqslug on Apr 6, 2009 - 3 answers

Is it possible to connect a Leica D-lux 3 camera to a computer such that I can see the (current) image on the computer? What software should I use for this? (Mac/windows) [more inside]
posted by dhruva on Dec 9, 2008 - 5 answers

What's a decent microscope for a seven-year old boy? [more inside]
posted by Doofus Magoo on Nov 15, 2008 - 10 answers

Microscopy question. Can I use a haemocytometer to calibrate our new camera? [more inside]
posted by kisch mokusch on May 21, 2008 - 5 answers

My absolutely non-techie dad has just, in a fit of extreme awesomeness, offered to buy me a compound microscope. What now? [more inside]
posted by palmcorder_yajna on Oct 9, 2007 - 11 answers

I have always been intrigued by the micro world. I am looking for a tool to help me enjoy it further. What better tool than a microscope, however I want it to be portable and allow me to examine things with out too much preparations. I saw some of the small microscopes like 'pocket scope' 30x, and 'illuminated microscope' between 25x and 50x. [more inside]
posted by convex on Jul 27, 2006 - 14 answers

Life on Mars: Why not send up a remote control optical microscope package? [more inside]
posted by ZenMasterThis on Mar 10, 2006 - 9 answers

Any biologists in the house? What would be a recommended book for identifying bacteria, pollen, and other nitnoy under a regular microscope? [more inside]
posted by chef_boyardee on Dec 26, 2005 - 7 answers

How powerful a microscope does one need to get a good view of human sperm? [more inside]
posted by alms on Jul 10, 2005 - 10 answers