Discover entirely new worlds of research
with the new Leica fluorescence stereomicroscopes
Living up to Life
Page 2
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Bringing Ideas into the Light
Fluorescence microscopy techniques are criti-
cal for studying the functions within organisms
in modern developmental, molecular, and cel-
lular biology. Fluorescence microscopy gives
researchers insight into a world normally hidden
from sight. The structures within an organism
and their dynamic processes can be specifically
targeted with fluorescence dyes to render them
visible at the sub cellular level, which helps
researchers to better understand the molecular
principles and complex relationships on which
life itself is based.
Science in the fields of cellular and developmen-
tal biology has evolved beyond understanding
microstructures and isolated processes to the
study of their complex interrelationships within
organisms. Sophisticated genetic and cellular
studies of networks as complex as the nervous
or vascular system bring these vital interactions
to light.
Capturing every aspect of an organism over a
wide magnification range, down to the tiniest
details, requires a flexible microscope system
that combines excellent optics with contrast-
rich fluorescence technology. From specimen
preparation and manipulation, to screening and
evaluating genetically engineered mutations, to
high-resolution documentation and long-term
studies of live model organisms; with the new
Leica M-Series, Leica Microsystems offers a
revolutionary stereomicroscope system that is
equal to the demands of modern science.
Page 4
The Evolution of Resolution
FusionOptics
Combines the highest possible resolution with »
outstanding depth of field
Largest zoom range in stereomicroscopy
» A single microscope for preparation tasks and
documentation
The smallest details
» Discover details that were previously invisible
in stereomicroscopy
™
FusionOptics™:
Leica Microsystems brings high resolution and depth of field
together
Until now, high depth of field and maximum resolution were
always considered to be irreconcilable opposites. With
FusionOptics™, Leica Microsystems has succeeded in overcoming
these limitations. Scientific studies conducted at the Institute of
Neuroinformatics, a department of the ETH Zürich, confirm that
the human vision system is capable of drawing the maximum
information content from each eye individually and merging it
to create a three-dimensional image. In the same way, the new
Leica M205 FA uses the two beam paths for different tasks:
the right channel delivers a high-resolution image at the largest
possible numerical aperture, while the left channel presents an
image with high depth of field. As a result, two apparently irre-
concilable worlds are merged in the human brain: the observer
receives an image with outstanding richness of detail and out-
standing depth of field at the same time.
Vascular anatomy of a Zebrafish embryo as revealed by GFP expression
driven by the Fli-1 promoter. Courtesy: Brant Weinstein, National Institutes
of Health, Bethesda, MD
Zebrafish embryo expressing GFP under the control of the beta-actin
promoter. Courtesy: Prof. Dr. Stephan C. F. Neuhauss, Professor for
Neurosciences ETH Zurich and Institute for Brain Research at the
University of Zurich
Periferic and central nervous (ventral cord) system of a drosophila
fluorescent protein in posterior compartment of each segment. Courtesy
of Dr. Kuranaga, Dept. Genetics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, The University of Tokyo
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The Art of Creating Brilliant Images
Illuminate specimens with patented third beam path
The Leica M205 FA and M165 FC stereomicroscopes feature
Leica Microsystems’ patented TripleBeam® technology. The
TripleBeam® principle refers to the microscope’s third beam
path, reserved exclusively for fluorescence illumination to deli-
ver evenly illuminated, reflex-free fields of view at all zoom set-
tings. This separation of illumination and observation beam paths
ensures brilliant fluorescence images, rich in detail and contrast,
with the best light efficiency. Even weak fluorescence signals are
displayed with remarkable image quality.
Optional Leica FluoCombi III™ for brilliant macro and micro
imaging on one microscope
The unique Leica FluoCombi III™ attachment gives scientists the
advantages of both stereo and high-resolution micro imaging …
on one microscope. By flipping a switch to activate the objective
revolver, the user can quickly switch between a macro and a
micro view of a specimen at any time.
In stereo mode, the system’s large object field, working distance,
and depth of field makes specimen manipulation easy. When the
user is finished working in macro mode, he or she simply rotates
the parcentric, parfocal micro objective into position. Viewing
performance up to 1500 line pairs per mm is achieved while
retaining the exact focusing position. At the same time, the user
can capture parallax-free z-stacks with maximum optical precision
to obtain highly detailed 3-D information about the specimen.
Viewing the smallest detail to the entire organism, always in
focus: the Leica FluoCombi III™ makes it easy to present research
results with brilliant images.
Leica TripleBeam®: separate, third illumination
path
Brilliant fluorescence»
The best light efficiency »
Leica FluoCombi III™: micro and macro views
with one microscope
Parallax-free documentation of the whole orga-»
nism down to the smallest detail
Precisely detailed 3-D information»
Microscopes that grow to meet future
requirements
Adaptable to future experiments through maxi-»
mum modularity
Seamless interaction of all system components»
Cross-section of optics system: Leica M205 FA with FusionOptics™ and TripleBeam
®
Page 8
Leica M165 FC: Stereomicroscopy
of the highest order
Stereomicroscopy
With Leica Microsystems’ TripleBeam
logy, the Leica M165 FC Fluorescence Classic
stereomicroscope documents the results of
research with brilliant, contrast-rich, fluore-
scence images. The 16.5:1 zoom optics are fully
apochromatically-corrected to resolve struc-
tures down to 551nm: classic, manual, high-level
stereomicroscopy.
With an encoded zoom, filter changer, iris dia-
phragm, and objective revolver, the microscope
configuration and optical data is available on a
computer at any time. Experiment procedures
and parameters are reproducible and consistent.
®
techno-
FusionOptics
Zoom range7.3×
Maximum magnification*19
Max. objective aperture **0
Max. resolution **
Object field ***63
Working distance***61
TripleBeam
Encoding ****
Complete automation
Four parfocal objectives
Objective nosepiece
FluoCombi III
™
™
Zoom16
®
path
capable
*With eyepieces 40× and planapochromatic
objective 2×
** Planapo objective 2×
*** Data with standard optics
(objective 1× / eyepieces 10×)
**** Readout of settings for iris diaphragm,
magnification, filter and objective in
use per LAS (Leica Application Software)
Page 9
Leica M205 FA: Discover a
New World of Research
M165 FC
Manual
No
906 line-
pairs / mm
YesYes
Yes
YesYes
YesYes
Complete
Automation
Yes
1050 line
pairs / mm
Yes
Yes
M205 FA
Leica Microsystems’ unique combination of
FusionOptics™ technology, TripleBeam® flu-
orescence, and an unprecedented level of
microscope automation opens a new world of
research with fluorescence stereomicroscopy.
The fully apochromatically-corrected optics
system; the largest zoom range available on the
market, 20.5:1; and a resolution to 1050 line pairs
per mm reveals a level of microscopic detail
previously unknown in stereomicroscopy.
Time-intensive studies of live organisms and
the resulting documentation of complex image
sequences and multiple fluorescence images
are easy to execute and are instantly reproduci-
ble by motorizing the focus, zoom, filter changer
and iris diaphragm.
YesYes
Page 10
Concentrate the Experiment
Zebrafish larva fin
The Leica IsoPro™ motorized cross-stage makes
automated specimen scans easy.
With the touchscreen display, all important informa-
tion and functions are at your fingertips.
Intelligent control
The user is in complete control of the expe-
riment with just a few touches on the Leica
SmartTouch™ control unit. The convenient, color
touchscreen allows the user to save and recall
all important optical parameters with a simple
touch command on the visual controller display.
The most important functions on the control unit
can be customized to an individual’s specific
needs with freely programmable rotary knobs
and memory function buttons. The design of the
SmartTouch™ navigation display was designed to
be ergonomic, intuitive, and efficient to limit the
attention required to control the microscope and
allow the user to focus entirely on the research
and results.
Advanced life science applications
The researcher can control the Leica IsoPro
motorized X/Y-stage dedicated for stereomi-
croscopy with the SmartTouch
LAS software, or Leica AF6000 (Advanced
Fluorescence) software. The user can easily
reposition the microscope stage and program
repetitive processes. The Leica M-Series
Stereomicroscopes can expand into complete
documentation systems for every requirement,
from simple fluorescence photographs to intri-
cate, multi-dimensional fluorescence experi-
ments.
™
control unit,
™
Investment for the future
Particularly in multi-user environments, an
adaptable microscope system is important for
meeting a wide range research requirements.
The modular Leica M-Series platform features
components and accessories work seamlessly
together. The researcher can configure a tailor-
made stereomicroscope system for almost any
research project, and have confidence that exi-
sting Leica Microsystems systems will adapt to
scientific advances of the future.
The basis for successful documentation
Leica Microsystems offers a selection of power-
ful transmitted light bases that always present
specimens in the best light: brightfield illumina-
tion with high or low diffusion, oblique transmit-
ted light, and darkfield. The Rottermann Relief
contrast method also ensures an excellent dis-
play, even when viewing unstained live cells.
Page 11
Flexible Solutions for
all Research Needs
Create the best spectral properties
Leica Microsystems offers a wide range of
microscope fluorescence filters that can be
used with existing fluorescence filters to cre-
ate the best spectral properties of a specimen.
The Leica M-Series filter changer can accom-
modate up to four filter combinations (excitation
and blocking filters). The fluorescence shutter
does not open until a filter has been identified
by its transponder in the observation channel.
The shutter can be closed at any time with the
press of a button to prevent over exposure of
fluorescent light on to the specimens. In a soft-
ware-controlled imaging series, the shutter only
remains open during the image capture mode.
This abbreviated shutter time and a filter change
time of less than 500 ms are especially valuable
for speeding up intensive fluorescence experi-
ments.
Protect live cells
Protecting live cells and ensuring precise, con-
stant culture conditions requires that an organism
remains carefully controlled for an experiment’s
duration. The Leica MATS (Microscope stage
Automatic Thermo control System) thermoplate
radiates heat uniformly over the entire stage
surface and precisely maintains a preset tem-
perature. Constant temperature control helps
ensure a successful experimental outcome.
Let there be light
The Leica EL6000 External Light source is equip-
ped with a long-life metal halide lamp, a cost-
effective, and timesaving alternative to mercury
vapor lamps. Since this lamp does not need
adjustment, the user is assured of uniformly illu-
minated, contrast-rich fluorescence images.
Ergonomically-designed stereomicroscope
system
Leica Microsystems offers an unsurpassed
range of observation tubes and ergomodules
to configure the Leica M-Series. The new Leica
Trinocular ErgoTube™ (5 °to 45° observation
angle) provides a wide range of adjustment
options to provide a comfortable, relaxed seated
position at the microscope. The Leica ErgoTube
is designed to provide maximum comfort for all
users, especially during long hours of work at
the microscope.
™
Assemble a fluorescence filter set to suite a
specific application.
Leica MATS thermoplate: uniform temperature
distribution for reliable experiment results.
The M-series stereomicroscope is adjustable even
by millimeters to ensure comfortable work for hours.
Page 12
Unprecedented Performance
Obtain overview and detailed image acquisition in 1 step.
Stability and ample space for all experimental situations.
Leica M165 FC fluorescence module.
Supreme performance for a broad range of
research
The Leica M-Series Stereomicroscopes com-
bine a large zoom range and high-resolution per-
formance in a single system to enable a broad
range of research tasks with just one micro-
scope. For example, the researcher can not only
observe organogenesis in an entire zebrafish
but also cell diversification and determination in
the retina.
The Leica M205 FA stereomicroscope advances
research into magnification ranges previously
unknown. With FusionOptics™ specimen details
are clearly resolved down to a size of 476nm.
The Leica M165 FC resolves structures down to
a size of 551nm.
Space for your specimens
With the Leica M-Series high-performance ste-
reomicroscopes, you no longer have to choose
between a highly detailed presentation of a
specimen and adequate space for manipulation.
Four planapochromatically-corrected, parfocal
main objectives can be used in any combination
on the objective revolver. This gives enormous
flexibility to choose the best magnification range
and working distance to suit any application.
A solid basis for research
High-performance stereomicroscopes require a
solid base. The M-Series construction is extre-
mely stable to effectively absorb impact and
vibration to virtually eliminate impaired image
quality, even when observing specimens in a
liquid medium.
Highly precise for complex imaging
Adjust the focal position of the microscope con-
veniently and precisely, even in the nanometer
range, with the manual coarse/fine focus drive.
Z-stacks and other complex multi-channel fluo-
rescence imaging procedures are easy with the
automated Leica M205 FA with motorized focus.
Enjoy the full performance capabilities
To provide all of the full performance capabili-
ties of the new M-Series Stereomicroscopes,
all system components are apochromatically-
corrected. Fluorescence results are not marred
by color seams or distortions. The new Leica
M-Series reflects the superior imaging perfor-
mance of Leica Microsystems’ optical systems.
Uncorrected (left) and apochromatically-corrected
(right) photo of a zebrafish larva.
Page 13
Fully-developed, Individually-
tailored Solutions
The control center for experiments
An automated, software-integrated M-Series
system provides unprecedented convenience
and simplifies experimental procedures, even in
complex fluorescence applications. From con-
trolling the microscope functions to capturing
and processing images to analyzing and mana-
ging data: with Leica Microsystems, the micro-
scope, camera, and software work in perfect
harmony.
An integrated, complete imaging solution
Within the LAS environment, an automated ste-
reomicroscope, digital camera, and software
combine to create one user-friendly, consistent
imaging solution. The versatility and modular
design of LAS gives enormous flexibility to build
an imaging system perfectly adapted to a unique
application. LAS is an intuitive solution that
makes both routine and research analysis
easier.
Advanced software for fluorescence
applications
Leica Microsystems has worked with leading
scientists to develop Leica AF6000 Advanced
Fluorescence software to meet every possible
need in advanced life science applications. The
intuitive software guides the user reliably and
easily to brilliant results. For routine documenta-
tion, image superimposition, and time sequence
imaging, Leica Microsystems offers the Leica
AF6000 E introductory software package for flu-
orescence applications.
Leica AF6000 software fulfills all the require-
ments of fluorescence applications from multi-
channel fluorescence to time sequence imaging,
from z-stacks with parallax correction to 3-D
image reconstruction. A motorized stage ena-
bles documentation of images on several
selected areas of interest in the specimen. With
many functions for documenting, quantifying,
optimizing, and analyzing images, Leica AF6000
converts a stereomicroscope into an integrated,
high-performance system that grows with your
research needs.
LAS Multi-focus module
LAS Image Overlay module
AF6000: Settings for complex t and z series
AF6000: Image gallery in acquisition mode
Page 14
Highlights of the
Leica M165 FC & M205 FA
Never before seen: 3-D images of the highest resolution,
brilliance, and depth of field
FusionOpticst
for high resolution and one channel for high depth of field,
create an image impression of unprecedented richness of t
detail and outstanding depth of field.
™
, integrated on the M205FA, with one channel
Leica FusionOptics™ for never-before achieved depth
of field and image brilliance.
All data at a glance on the Leica M205 FA’s display.
Easily switch between overview and parallax-free
detailed view.
Largest zoom range on the market today
Leica M205 FA: 20.5:1 zoom makes a wide range of research t
techniques possible with just one microscope.
Brilliant fluorescence images, rich detail and contrast
Patented Leica TripleBeamt
Optimization of UV transmission of the illumination path.t
Filter properties adapt precisely to a specific specimen.t
Leica FluoCombi IIIt
working distance, depth impression, and field of view in stereo
mode; capture parallax-free z-stacks with the micro objective
for highly detailed, 3-D information.
Microscopes that grow to meet future requirements
The Leica M-Series is a highly modular platform.t
A wide selection of accessories provides maximum system t
flexibility.
The user can create individual filter combinations.t
The new Leica M-Series seamlessly integrates with existing t
system components.
Trinocular Leica ErgoTubet
different microscope users.
™
®
technology.
: Easy specimen manipulation with large
™
: the best viewing comfort for
™
The new trinocular Leica ErgoTube
to different users and various setups.
Fast and precise with reproducible zoom adjustment
via the new motorized focus.
quickly adapts
User comfort and experiment reproducibility through
motorization
Leica M205 FA: Easy documentation of complex image t
sequences and multiple fluorescence photos with motorized
focus, zoom, filter changer, and iris diaphragm.
External control unit features clearly organized, colored t
touchscreen.
Continuous status monitoring and convenient control of all t
system settings and functions.
Individually program the most important control functions.t
Intuitive operation in seven different languages.t
Encoding for experimental reproducibility and consistency
Leica M165 FC features encoding of the focus, zoom, filters, t
and iris diaphragm.
Microscope configuration and optical data and can be read t
out at a computer at any time.
Detailed view with high-performance objectives
High-resolution, precisely-detailed view combines with a t
large working distance and ample space for specimen
manipulation.
Features four planapochromatically-corrected, parfocal t
main objectives.
™
With Leica SmartTouch
at the fingertips, just a few clicks away.
Contacts of internal instrument encoding.
, all motorized functions are
Convenient objective revolver provides a fast enlargement of t
the field of view
A solid foundation for research: stable construction
The stable mechanical construction combines with superior t
optical performance for years of high-performance.
Reliably absorbs impacts and vibrations to ensure outstanding t
image quality, even when observing specimens in a liquid
medium.
Integrated solutions make research easy
A seamless interface of components create a microscope t
system tailored to an individual application.
From microscope control to image capture and processing to t
data analysis and management: the Leica M-Series provides
flexibility, user friendliness, and reliable documentation of
research results.
Fast objective change with the new objective turret.
Stable mechanical construction supports
superior optical performance.
Leica Design by Christophe Apothéloz
Integrated, complete imaging solutions,
by Leica Microsystems.
In accordance with the ISO 9001 certificate, Leica Microsystems (Switzerland) Ltd, Industry
Division, has at its disposal a management system that meets the requirements of the international standard for quality management. In addition, production meets the requirements of the
international standard ISO 14001 for environmental management.
Leica Microsystems operates globally in four divi sions,
where we rank with the market leaders.
•
Life Science Division
The Leica Microsystems Life Science Division supports the
imaging needs of the scientifi c community with advanced
innovation and technical expertise for the visualization,
measurement, and analysis of microstructures. Our strong
focus on understanding scientifi c applications puts Leica
Microsystems’ customers at the leading edge of science.
•
Industry Division
The Leica Microsystems Industry Division’s focus is to
support customers’ pursuit of the highest quality end result.
Leica Microsystems provide the best and most innovative
imaging systems to see, measure, and analyze the microstructures in routine and research industrial applications,
materials science, quality control, forensic science investigation, and educational applications.
•
Biosystems Division
The Leica Microsystems Biosystems Division brings histopathology labs and researchers the highest-quality,
most comprehensive product range. From patient to pathologist, the range includes the ideal product for each
histology step and high-productivity workfl ow solutions
for the entire lab. With complete histology systems featuring innovative automation and Novocastra™ reagents,
Leica Microsystems creates better patient care through
rapid turnaround, diagnostic confi dence, and close customer collaboration.
•
Surgical Division
The Leica Microsystems Surgical Division’s focus is to
partner with and support surgeons and their care of patients with the highest-quality, most innovative surgi cal
microscope technology today and into the future.
“With the user, for the user”
Leica Microsystems
The statement by Ernst Leitz in 1907, “with the user, for the user,” describes the fruitful collaboration
with end users and driving force of innovation at Leica Microsystems. We have developed fi ve
brand values to live up to this tradition: Pioneering, High-end Quality, Team Spirit, Dedication to
Science, and Continuous Improvement. For us, living up to these values means: Living up to Life.