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Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD
User Manual
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Contents
General Notes
General Notes 5
Important Safety Notes 6
Symbols Used 7
Safety Instructions 8
Introduction
Congratulations! 11
Standard Delivery and Optional Accessories 12
Overview of the Instrument 13
Effective Displayed Section 14
Assembly
Assembling the Camera 16
Installation
Cables and Terminals, Activating HD Mode (Standalone) 18
Connecting a Computer, Installing Software, Activating PC Mode 19
Limitations in PC Mode 20
Instrument Setup
Switching on the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD 22
Configuring the Footswitch 23
Remote control 24
"Pairing" the Leica MC120 HD MC 170 HD with the Remote Control 26
Application
Switching on the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD (Standalone) 28
Information about SD Memory Cards 29
Capturing Images without a Computer 30
Displaying Images and Videos without a Computer 31
White Balance 32
Switching on the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD (PC Mode) 33
Additional Use of an HD Monitor (PC Mode) 34
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual 2
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Contents (Continued)
User Menu
Calling up the User Menu 36
Automatic white balance 37
Manual white balance 38
Exposure 39
Resolution 40
Camera Settings 42
User-Defined Settings 44
Setting Image Overlays (SETUP OVERLAY) 46
Configuring Predefined Illumination Scenarios 48
Service
Care, Maintenance, Contact Persons 50
Spare parts 53
Specications
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD 55
Dimensional Drawings 57
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual 3
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General Notes
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual General Notes 4
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General Notes
Safety concept
Before using your Leica microscope camera for
the first time, please read the "Safety Concept"
brochure included with your instrument. It
contains additional information on handling
and care.
Use in clean rooms
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD digital microscope camera can be used in clean rooms without any problems.
Cleaning
O Do not use any unsuitable cleaning agents,
chemicals or techniques for cleaning.
O Never use chemicals to clean colored
surfaces or accessories with rubberized
parts. This could damage the surfaces,
and specimens could be contaminated by
abraded particles.
O In most cases, we can provide special solu-
tions on request. Some products can be
modified, and we can offer other accessories for use in clean rooms.
O Follow the notes regarding cleaning the
filter glass in the Service section.
Servicing
O Repairs may only be carried out by Leica
Microsystems-trained service technicians.
Only original Leica Microsystems spare
parts may be used.
Responsibilities of person in charge of
instrument
O Ensure that the Leica microscope camera
is operated, maintained and repaired by
authorized and trained personnel only.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual General Notes 5
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Important Safety Notes
User Manual
The LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD can be configured in a variety of ways in the Leica product
range. You can find information on individual
system components on the interactive CD-ROM
together with all relevant user manuals in additional languages. Keep this CD-ROM in a safe
place, where it is available to the user. User
manuals and updates are also available for you
to download and print from our web site at
www.leica-microsystems.com
This user manual describes the special functions of the MC120 HD / MC170 HD digital
microscope camera and contains important
instructions for operating safety, maintenance
and the accessory parts.
The "Safety Concept" booklet contains additional safety information regarding the service
work, requirements and the handling of the
microscope camera, accessories and electrical
accessories as well as general safety instructions.
You can combine individual system articles
with articles from external suppliers (e.g. cold
light sources, etc.). Please read the User Manual
and the safety instructions from the supplier.
Before installing, operating or using the instruments, read the user manuals listed above. In
particular, please follow all safety instructions.
To maintain the unit in its original condition
and to ensure safe operation, the user must
follow the instructions and warnings contained
in these user manuals.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual General Notes 6
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Symbols Used
Warning! Safety hazard!
This symbol indicates especially impor-
tant information that is mandatory to
read and observe. Failure to comply can cause
the following:
O Hazards to persons!
O Instrument malfunctions and damage.
Warning of hazardous electrical voltage
This symbol indicates especially impor-
tant information. Failure to comply can
cause the following:
O Hazards to persons!
O Instrument malfunctions and damage.
Instrument malfunctions and damage.
This symbol warns against touching hot
surfaces, such as light bulbs.
Important information
This symbol indicates additional infor-
mation or explanations that are intended
to provide clarity.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual General Notes 7
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Safety Instructions
Description
O The individual modules fulfill the highest
requirements for observation and documentation of the Leica MC120 HD / MC170
HD digital microscope camera.
Intended use
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
Non-intended use
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
Never use the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD
or its components for surgical procedures
(such as eye surgery) if it is not expressly
intended for such use.
The instruments and accessories described in
this User Manual have been tested for safety and
potential hazards. The responsible Leica affiliate
must be consulted whenever the instrument is
altered, modified or used in conjunction with
non-Leica components that are outside of the
scope of this manual!
Unauthorized alterations to the instrument or
noncompliant use shall void all rights to any
warranty claims.
Place of use
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
O Electrical components must be placed at
least 10 cm away from the wall and from
flammable substances.
O Avoid large temperature fluctuations,
direct sunlight and vibrations. These conditions can distort measurements and micrographic images.
O In warm and warm-damp climatic zones,
the individual components require special
care in order to prevent the build-up of
fungus.
Responsibilities of person in charge of
instrument
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
Ensure that:
O The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD digital
microscope camera and accessories are
operated, maintained and repaired by
authorized and trained personnel only.
O All operators have read, understood and
observe this User Manual, and particularly
the safety regulations.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual General Notes 8
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Safety Instructions (continued)
Repairs, service work
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
O Only original Leica Microsystems spare
parts may be used.
O Before opening the instruments, switch off
the power and unplug the power cable.
O Avoid contact with powered electrical
circuits, which can lead to injury.
Transport
O Use the original packaging for shipping or
transporting the individual modules of the
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD digital microscope camera and the accessory components.
O In order to prevent damage from vibrations,
disassemble all moving parts that (according to the user manual) can be assembled
and disassembled by the customer and
pack them separately.
Integration in third-party products
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
Disposal
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
Legal regulations
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
EC Declaration of Conformity
O Refer to "Safety Concept" booklet
Health risks
Workplaces with microscopes facilitate and
improve the viewing task, but they also impose
high demands on the eyes and holding muscles
of the user. Depending on the duration of uninterrupted work, asthenopia and musculoskeletal problems may occur. For this reason, appropriate measures for reduction of the workload
must be taken:
O Optimal arrangement of workplace, work
assignments and work flow (changing tasks
frequently).
O Thorough training of the personnel, giving
consideration to ergonomic and organizational aspects.
The ergonomic optical design and construction
of Leica microscopes are intended to reduce the
exertion of the user to a minimum.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual General Notes 9
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Introduction
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Introduction 10
Page 11
Congratulations!
We congratulate you on purchasing the
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD digital microscope camera by Leica Microsystems.
The special design of the Leica MC120 HD /
MC170 HD makes it a universal, highly versatile
tool for viewing microscopic specimens and
capturing still images or even video.
Real Full HD display
The integrated HDMI output allows the camera
image to be output to a high-definition
(HD-capable) monitor, where the following
resolutions are possible:
O 1920×1080 (Full HD). This resolution
provides the best possible imaging performance on a Full HD-capable monitor.
O 1280×720 (HD ready). This resolution is
suitable for display on monitors labeled
"HD ready" or on smaller monitors with a
10" or 12" diagonal.
Leica Application Suite
Your LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD digital microscope camera includes the "Leica Application
Suite" software. It allows additional scenarios
to be implemented in which an HD monitor and computer monitor can even be used
together. This means you will be perfectly
equipped for any situation, including: Working on a computer, during presentations, training sessions, trade show appearances, during
materials testing and more.
User-friendly even in the smallest detail
Like every digital camera, the Leica MC120 HD /
MC170 HD microscope camera reacts differently to different light sources. However, the
white balance is matched to LED illuminators
from Leica at the factory. This means that if you
use a Leica LED illuminator, you automatically
obtain the best results!
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Introduction 11
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Standard Delivery and Optional Accessories
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Standard delivery
Optional accessories: Handswitch/footswitch
Standard delivery of the Leica MC120 HD /
MC170 HD digital microscope camera includes:
1 Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD digital
microscope camera
2 2 remote control units, with battery
3 "Leica Application Suite (LAS)" software DVD
4 USB cable, for connecting to a computer or
to a power supply unit for supplying power
5 HDMI cable, for connecting to an HD monitor
6 SD memory card
Additional information about working on
the computer and with Leica Application
Suite is provided in the software's online help.
Various functions can be assigned to the
optional handswitch/footswitch (such as taking
individual pictures, white balance).
For information on additional accessories, such
as objectives and adapters, illumination or the
dust cover for the microscope, please contact
your Leica Microsystems authorized dealer.
You can find detailed descriptions of
different accessories in their correspond-
ing user manual.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Introduction 12
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Overview of the Instrument
PC-HD
HDMI
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5
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1 Card holder for SD card
2 Status light
3 IR receiver, for remote control
4 HDMI connection
5 USB connection
6 Connection for footswitch
7 Mode switch, for PC or HD mode
8 On/off switch
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Introduction 13
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Effective Displayed Section
The live image on the HD monitor and
the final image capture may not show
the same section depending on the sensor size
in the microscope.
1 Live image in 16:9 format, displayed on the
HD monitor
2 Image capture in 4:3 format, displayed on
the computer or saved to an SD card.
1
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Introduction 14
2
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Assembly
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Assembly 15
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Assembling the Camera
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0.4x / 0.5x
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
mounted on a (trinocular) tube or on
a microscope's photo port using a C-mount
adapter.
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
compatible with all stereo, macro and
light microscopes from Leica Microsystems.
Assembly
1. Screw the camera onto a C-mount adapter.
2. Place the camera on the microscope's
photo port or the tube using the previously
mounted C-mount adapter.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Assembly 16
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Installation
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Installation 17
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Cables and Terminals, Activating HD Mode (Standalone)
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
1
2
2
1
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
General Notes
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
designed for the use of HD-capable
(high definition)monitors. We urgently recommend connecting the HD monitor using an
HDMI connector and not using a DVI adapter,
as otherwise proper function can no longer be
guaranteed!
Please only connect the provided
5 V power supply unit. Using an incorrect voltage can substantially damage the
LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD.
Power supply and HD monitor
1. Connect the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD
to a suitable power socket using the USB
cable and power supply.
2. Connect the LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD
to the HD monitor using the HDMI cable.
Activating HD mode (standalone)
1. Set the mode switch to "HD" in order to
set the LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD to HD
mode (standalone).
An SD card with sufficient free memory
must be inserted into the LeicaMC120 HD /
MC170 HD in order to save images in HD mode
(standalone).
In order to avoid instrument malfunctions,
do not connect the Leica MC120 HD /
MC170 HD to a computer while in HD mode
(standalone).
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Installation 18
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Connecting a Computer, Installing Software, Activating PC Mode
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Installation and connection
For instructions on installing and using
the software for PC mode, refer to the
DVD provided with the Leica MC120 HD /
MC170 HD.
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
powered by the computer via the USB
cable. The status light is red when switching on
the LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD; as soon as it
is green, you can open the software and view,
Activating PC mode
record or manage images.
1. Place the DVD provided into the computer's disk drive and follow the instructions
for installing the software.
1. Set the mode switch to "PC" in order to
set the LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD to PC
mode.
The Leica software has to be installed
3. Follow the instructions in the software for
adjusting and recording an image.
2. Connect the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD
on the computer in order to use the
LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD in PC mode. The
computer also has to have sufficient free hard
drive space.
to the computer using the USB cable.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Installation 19
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Limitations in PC Mode
Aspect ratio
4:3
Images are always output in a 4:3
aspect ratio when the LeicaMC120 HD /
MC170 HD is connected to a computer – even if
a 16:9 monitor is connected to the HDMI port.
However, the image is displayed correctly on
these kinds of devices, just with black screen
edges.
16:9
Operation
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
controlled entirely via the computer
in PC mode. The remote control and the footswitch do not work. The menus for the camera
are also not displayed on the HD monitor.
Status information can be retrieved at any time
despite this by using on the remote control.
Images cannot be saved onto the SD card
in PC mode.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Installation 20
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Instrument Setup
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Instrument Setup 21
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PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
1
1
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
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1
Switching on the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD
HD Mode (Standalone)
Ensure that the camera can receive light
from the microscope, the mode switch is
set to "HD" and the HD monitor is switched on.
1. Set the on/off switch to "ON" to switch on
the LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD.
2. The status light's LED switches from red to
green, a signal tone sounds and the live
image is displayed on the HD monitor - the
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is ready to use.
If the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
connected to a computer in HD mode
(standalone):
O The message "No camera" appears when
starting the LAS software.
If the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
connected to an HD monitor in PC mode:
O The remote control does not respond;
in other words, the user menu does not
appear.
O On the HD monitor, a live image is shown
in 4:3 aspect ratio (with black bars on the
right and left).
PC Mode
Ensure that, as with HD mode, the mode
switch is set to "PC" and the computer
monitor is switched on.
1. Set the on/off switch to "ON" to switch on
the LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD.
2. Start Leica Application Suite.
3 The status light's LED switches from red to
green, a signal tone sounds and the live
image is displayed on the computer - the
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is ready to use.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Instrument Setup 22
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Configuring the Footswitch
General Notes
The optional footswitch can be configured as
defined by the user using the remote control.
The default setting is "CAPTURE" for
capturing an image.
The optional footswitch does not work in
PC mode.
Configuring
1. Select "SETUP USER" in the main menu:
2. Select "FOOT SWITCH" for the footswitch:
3. The following configurations are possible
by selecting the corresponding option:
O NONE: No Function
O CAPTURE: Capture an image and save it to
the SD card.
O SHOW LAST: Show a preview of the most
recently acquired image.
O MOVIE: Start video recording or stop a
video recording that is in progress. Saved to
the SD card as an MP4 file.
O OVERLAY: Show crosshair or overlay. Press-
ing this button multiple times scrolls
through the list of crosshairs or overlays.
O WHITE BAL: Run white balance for color
correcting the camera.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Instrument Setup 23
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Remote control
WB
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General Notes
Always keep the remote control for controlling the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD pointed
towards the camera's IR receiver.
The remote control does not respond if
the camera is in PC mode.
Instead of the remote control, the
optional footswitch (depending on
the configuration) can be used to trigger the
LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD.
Description
1. Carry out white balance adjustment
2. Save still image to SD card
3. Show/hide gallery, retrieve data from
SD card
4. Pairing (camera - remote control)
5. Left/right button, select illumination mode
6. Show/hide user menu
7. Start/stop video recording
8. Stop/continue live image
9. Show/hide information box
10. Up/down button, select overlay
11. OK/confirm
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Instrument Setup 24
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WB
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RC2
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Remote Control (continued)
1
2
Checking the battery
1. Switch on the camera and HD monitor so that
you see the live image on the HD monitor.
2. Hold the remote control in the beam path
so that it faces upwards and press any key.
Because the camera's chip also responds to the
infrared range, you can see how the LED on top
of the remote control lights up on the HD monitor. If this is not the case, the battery needs to
be changed.
Changing the Battery
1. Remove the battery cover on the rear side
of the remote control.
2. Replace the battery and close the battery
cover.
For the replacement, you need a button
battery of type CR2025.
You can insert a small piece of foam or a
folded piece of paper under the battery
cover to ensure better or more reliable battery
contact.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Instrument Setup 25
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"Pairing" the Leica MC120 HD MC 170 HD with the Remote Control
Pairing
The LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD and the
remote control can be paired and then
only respond to each other. This can be helpful when using multiple cameras and remote
controls.
1. Press the button to start or end the
process.
In order to achieve successful pairing
and avoid pairing by mistake, the second
step must be performed within 4 seconds.
If a "timeout" is displayed after 4 seconds,
press the "Pair" button again to start the
process.
2. Press and hold the button on your remote
you want to define as the pairing button
until a corresponding confirmation is
displayed on the HD monitor. All of the
buttons except the button can be used
for this.
3. The microscope only responds to the
remote control commands from this
remote control.
Resetting to factory setting
1. Press the button to start the process.
2. Press the button until a corresponding
confirmation is displayed on the HD monitor.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Instrument Setup 26
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Application
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Application 27
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Switching on the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD (Standalone)
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
Ensure that the optional objective is
screwed onto the microscope, the mode
switch is set to "HD" and the HD monitor is
switched on.
1. Set the on/off switch to "ON" to switch on
the LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD.
2. The status light's LED switches from red to
green, a signal tone sounds and the live
image is displayed on the HD monitor - the
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is ready to use.
If the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
connected to a computer in HD mode
(standalone):
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Application 28
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Information about SD Memory Cards
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
General Notes
Be absolutely certain to read the follow-
ing instructions about formatting and
handling the memory card provided in order to
prevent malfunctions during image acquisition.
File system and formatting
The FAT file system has to be used so that the
SD card works correctly and is detected by the
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD. Most memory
cards are factory-formatted with FAT so that
they can be used immediately.
An SD card cannot be formatted in the Leica
MC120 HD / MC170 HD. If it is necessary to
format the card, use a computer to do so. You
can also delete the files on the card in any digital camera that works with SD cards. During the
deletion, the FAT file system is installed automatically.
Write protection
Some SD memory cards are equipped
with a slide for write protection. If the
slide is pressed down, no new images can
be saved. In addition, existing images are
protected from being deleted.
If you cannot save any more images to the
SD card, check to make certain that the write
protection is disabled.
Orientation
Make sure that the memory card is
oriented correctly before inserting it
into the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD. If you
accidentally insert the card the wrong way
around, this could damage the camera.
Capacity
Class 4 and 6 SD cards can be used with the
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD. SDHC (high
capacity) cards up to 32 GB are also supported.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Application 29
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Capturing Images without a Computer
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
2
General Notes
Before capturing the image, ensure
that enough memory is available on
the SD card and that write protection has
not been activated. If the SD memory card
is full or protected, the Leica MC120 HD /
MC170 HD's status light stays red, and you
cannot acquire any more images.
In order to avoid instrument malfunc-
tions, do not connect the LeicaMC120 HD /
MC170 HD to a computer while in HD mode
(standalone).
In the highest resolution, a single image
takes up approx. 1.3 megabytes of storage space on the SD card. This means that
per gigabyte of capacity, you can save over
700 images.
Recording
1. Focus on the specimen.
2. Push the SD memory card into the slot on
top of the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD
until it clicks into place.
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD's status light
is illuminated in green. The camera is now ready
to save images to the SD memory card.
3. Press the record button on the remote
control or press the (optional) handswitch/
footswitch to capture an image.
You hear a signal tone as confirmation. While
the image is being acquired, the status light
flashes green and the word "Capture..." appears
briefly on the HD monitor.
4. In order to remove the SD card from the
camera, press on the SD memory card in
the memory slot so that it pops out.
You can now transfer the images to your
computer directly using an SD card slot or by
using an SD memory card reader.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Application 30
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Displaying Images and Videos without a Computer
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD can
display images and video clips directly
on an HD monitor.
Control via remote control:
1. : Show/hide miniature view.
2. : Select miniature image (JPG or
MP4).
3. For a JPG image:
: Display image in full size and zoomed
in 1x, 2x, 3x (when pressing repeatedly).
: Next/previous image.
3. For an MP4 video clip:
: Play video.
: Stop/play video.
: Rewind/fast forward video.
4. In order to return to the live image, press
the , , or button - if you are in a
zoomed-in image, you may need to do this
more than once.
007/0109 IC800007.MP4
Thumbnail view Reproduction / full screen
007/0109 IC800007.MP4
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Application 31
Page 32
White Balance
General Notes
The white balance ensures that the
specimen is shown in neutral colors. We
recommend carrying out a new white balance
adjustment whenever you change the illumination type or color temperature. This is particularly necessary if you are working with halogen
light that can be switched from yellow (low
intensity) to blue (high intensity).
Configure the white balance via the user
menu using the remote control. Depending on the configuration, automatic white
balance can also be carried out using the footswitch.
The white balance of the camera is
factory set to automatically provide optimum results when used in conjunction with a
Leica LED illuminator.
Manual white balance
O Manual white balance is described on
page 38.
Automatic white balance
1. Position a gray chart or a gray, neutral
object under the microscope so that the
entire image field is filled in.
2. Adjust the illumination as desired.
3. Press the button on the remote control.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Application 32
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Switching on the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD (PC Mode)
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
For additional information on Leica
Application Suite, please refer to "LAS
Help".
1. Set the on/off switch to "ON" to switch on
the LeicaMC120 HD / MC170 HD.
2. Start Leica Application Suite.
3 The status light's LED switches from red to
green, a signal tone sounds and the live
image is displayed on the computer - the
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD camera is
ready to use.
4. Follow the instructions in the software for
adjusting and acquiring an image.
You may be asked to specify your micro-
scope's current instrument configuration when starting LAS for the first time. For
the image source section, select the "Leica IC
camera" or "Leica IC / MC camera" menu entry
to select the MC120 HD / MC170 HD.
If the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
connected to an HD monitor in PC mode:
O The remote control does not respond;
in other words, the user menu does not
appear.
O On the HD monitor, a live image is shown
in 4:3 aspect ratio (with black bars on the
right and left).
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Application 33
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Additional Use of an HD Monitor (PC Mode)
1
1
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
General Notes
In PC mode, the microscope image is
always shown in the preview window of
Leica Application Suite. In addition, another HD
monitor can be connected via the HDMI interface.
The resolution on the connected HD
monitor is limited by the live image
resolution of the LAS software. Due to technical limitations, it is not possible to display a Full
HD live image on the connected HD monitor. In
order to do this, you have to switch the Leica
MC120 HD / MC170 HD to HD mode (standalone) (see page 18).
Connecting the HD monitor
1 Connect the Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD
to the HD monitor using the HDMI cable.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Application 34
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User Menu
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 35
Page 36
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
Calling up the User Menu
WB
OK
RC2
General Notes
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
controlled entirely via the computer
in PC mode. The remote control and the footswitch do not work. The menus for the camera
are also not displayed on the HD monitor.
Status information can be displayed on an HD
monitor at any time despite this by using on
the remote control.
Calling up and closing the user menu
Check to ensure that the camera is in HD mode
and that a live image is shown on a connected
HD monitor.
1. Point the remote control towards the Leica
MC120 HD / MC170 HD.
2. Press the button to show the user menu
on the computer monitor.
3. Press the / buttons to select
a menu item.
4. Press the button to confirm a menu
item.
5. Press the button again to hide the user
menu.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 36
Page 37
Automatic white balance
Main menu Submenu
The "COLOR" function makes it possible to adapt the camera chip
to the ambient light so that color-neutral images can be acquired.
Whenever possible, use a neutral gray chart or another color-
neutral object to attain optimum results.
Activating automatic white balance
1. Press the button on the remote control.
2. Call up the "COLOR" entry.
3. Set the value for "WB MODE" to "AUTO".
4. Press the button to leave the menu.
The values for "RED LEVEL", "BLUE LEVEL" and "BLACK LEVEL" cannot
be adjusted if the "WB MODE" setting is set to "AUTO".
The color values are continually adjusted to achieve the most color-
neutral picture possible if automatic white balance is enabled. This
is often very bothersome for monochromatic specimens. In that case,
enable manual white balance.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 37
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Manual white balance
Main menu Submenu
The "COLOR" function makes it possible to adapt the camera chip
to the ambient light so that color-neutral images can be acquired.
Adjusting the white balance manually (recommended)
1. Place the gray chart or another color-neutral object under the micro-
scope so that the entire field of view is filled in.
2. Press the button on the remote control. The white balance is
calibrated and saved to the camera.
Alternatively, you can also calibrate the white balance using the user
menu.
1. Press the button on the remote control.
2. Call up the "COLOR" entry.
3. Select the "SET WB" menu item.
4. Press the button.
Whenever possible, use a neutral gray chart or another color-
neutral object to attain optimum results.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 38
If you do not have a neutral gray area in the image or if the illumina-
tion has a very strong color cast, you can manually set the values
for "RED LEVEL", "BLUE LEVEL" and "BLACK LEVEL" until the image displays
a harmonious gray.
The white balance mode is always set to "MANUAL" after manually
adjusting the white balance, even if it was set to "AUTO" previously.
Page 39
Exposure
Main menu Submenu
Manual exposure
1. Press the button on the remote control.
2. Call up the "EXPOSURE" entry.
3. Set the value for "EXP MODE" to "MANUAL" for manual exposure.
4. Correct the values for "EXPOSURE", "GAIN" and "GAMMA" until you
obtain the desired results for the image.
Automatic exposure
1. Press the button on the remote control.
2. Call up the "EXPOSURE" entry.
3. Set the value for "EXP MODE" to "AUTO" for automatic exposure.
4. Correct the values for "BRIGHTNESS" and "GAMMA" until you obtain
the desired results for the image.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 39
Page 40
Resolution
Main menu Submenu
The "RESOLUTION" menu lets you define the resolution individu-
ally for the live image on the computer, capturing individual images
and capturing video.
Resolution of the live image (LIVE)
Defines the resolution of the live image. The following resolutions are
available:
O HD720-50 and HD720-60: 1280×720 pixels, at 50 Hz or 60 Hz image
refresh rate.
O HD1080-24 and HD1080-30: 1920×1080 pixels, at 24 Hz or 30 Hz
image refresh rate, progressive.
O HD1080-50 and HD1080-60: 1920×1080 pixels, at 50 Hz or 60 Hz
image refresh rate, interlaced.
Select a resolution that can be displayed on the HD monitor correctly
without flickering and without an error message.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 40
Page 41
Resolution (continued)
PC-HD
HDMI
ON-OFF
If a resolution cannot be displayed and the HD monitor remains black, you
can do the following to display a live image again in the HD monitor:
Use the tip of a ball-point pen (or a bent paperclip) to press the hidden
button:
O Pressing the button for the first time displays the current live image
resolution on the HD monitor.
O Pressing it a second time switches to the next live image resolution
and a signal tone is output.
O Repeat the last step until a live image is displayed. The camera can
activate 6 different resolutions in sequence.
A double signal tone is output when activating the recommended
default resolution of HD1080-50.
Resolution of the captured image (CAPTURED)
Defines the resolution of the captured image saved directly to the SD card.
The following resolutions are available:
O 1.1 MP - JPG: 1216×912 pixels
O 2.5 MP - JPG: 1824×1368 pixels
O 5.0 MP - JPG: 2592×1944 pixels (only available on the MC170 HD)
Resolution of videos (MOVIE)
Defines the resolution of video captures saved directly to the SD card. The
following resolutions are available:
O HD720-MP4: 1280×720 pixels
O HD1080-MP4: 1920×1080 pixels
About 50 MB of data are produced per minute with HD720 and 100 MB
with HD1080 (slightly dependent on the contents and compression
applied). A new file is created each time a file size of 1 GB is reached;
capturing continues without interruption. Video capturing is discontinued
if the SD card runs out of memory.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 41
Page 42
Camera Settings
Main menu Submenu
The "SETUP CAMERA" menu lets you configure various internal
parameters, such as the date and time, the file name for images on
the SD card or whether a signal tone should sound each time an image is
captured.
Reset camera (RESET CAM)
Resets the microscope to the factory default settings. All user information
(such as white balance, resolution, etc.) is reset. Select this function if you
are getting the impression the microscope is not responding normally or
a setting has not been made correctly.
Alternative method for resetting the camera: Use the tip of a ball-
point pen (or a bent paperclip) to press the hidden button: Hold the
button down for at least 5 seconds until a signal tone sounds.
Set the date and time (SET DATE/TIME)
This command sets the date and time as well as the format for displaying them. The following formatting options are available for selection:
YYYY.MM.DD – DD.MM.YYYY – MM/DD/YYYY
Display the date and time (SHOW DATE/TIME)
Depending on the setting, this does not display the date and time at all,
just displays it in the live image, just in image captures or in both the live
image and image captures. The date and time are displayed or written into
the top right corner of the image.
Set the filename (SET FILENAME)
Lets you freely select the first four characters of the filename for both
single exposures and video recordings. By default, either MC12 or MC17
are used for the first four characters. These characters are followed by
sequential numbering, followed by either JPG for individual images or
MP4 for video recordings.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 42
Page 43
Camera Settings (continued)
Display the filename (SHOW FILENAME)
Depending on the setting, this does not display the filename at all, just
displays it in the live image, just in image captures or in both the live
image and image captures. The filename is also shown or written into the
top right corner of the image.
If you save the file name or the date and time into images, they
cannot be deleted later, even if you rename the files or change
the date.
Rotate image (FLIP IMAGE)
Rotates the image by 180°.
Signal tone (AUDIO/BEEP)
Depending on the setting, you can have a brief signal tone sound after
capturing an image. This can be helpful when working with a footswitch if
you want to capture images without taking your eyes off the microscope.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 43
Page 44
User-Defined Settings
Main menu Submenu
The "SETUP USER" menu lets you change or switch certain user-
specific settings to make working with the microscope a more
enjoyable experience.
Set the illumination mode (SET ILLUM)
These settings allow you to define up to three different illumination
modes, such as one for transmitted light or one for polarized light. This
can save the current camera settings for recurring acquisition situations
and retrieval again at any time.
Press to select illumination mode 1, 2 or 3. Press to save the
current camera settings under the displayed illumination mode.
In order to select a pre-defined or newly defined illumination mode
quickly without calling up the user menu, press in the live image
.
Set menu color (MENU COLOR)
Currently, two color schemes are available for the menu guidance.
Additional colors may be provided in the future via a firmware update.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 44
Page 45
User-Defined Settings (continued)
Show the capture (SHOW CAPTURE)
Lets you set whether or not a recently saved image is to be displayed in
full screen or as picture-in-picture (PIP) on the monitor after capturing an
image. You can also select whether the created capture is to be displayed
for one second, three seconds or permanently (INFINITE).
Display the menu (SHOW MENU)
Defines how long the menu is displayed on the screen. You can stop the
menu from being displayed at any time by pressing the menu button
again or selecting a menu entry.
Set the language (LANGUAGE)
Lets you set the language for menu guidance. Select the fifth entry in
the main menu if you have (unintentionally) selected an Asian language
that uses logograms and want to return to a menu display that is alphanumeric. The menu entry for selecting the language is always added in
English as well.
Configure the footswitch (FOOT SWITCH)
Lets the footswitch be configured with another function. By default, pressing the footswitch triggers image acquisition. However, you can choose if
this should carry out a white balance adjustment, record a video or display
the last capture instead.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 45
Page 46
Setting Image Overlays (SETUP OVERLAY)
Main menu Submenu
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD lets you superimpose predefined
or user-specific images in the live image and in captured images.
These superimposed images (called overlays) can contain anything, but
usually just contain a few elements such as a crosshair or company logo.
Up to 10 overlays can be defined, of which the first overlay (01) is reserved
for displaying a small histogram in the bottom left corner. Overlays 02
through 10 can contain either predefined or user-specific content and let
you configure your microscope for special tasks.
Selecting image overlays (SELECT OVERLAY)
Press to select another overlay. Press to activate the selected
overlay and leave the menu.
If you want to quickly display other overlays, press when the live
image is displayed to show the next or previous respective
overlay.
Configuring image overlays (CONFIG OVERLAY)
Depending on the setting, this does not show an overlay, only shows the
overlay in the live image or shows it in both the live image and the image
capture.
Importing image overlays (READ IN OVERLAY)
Imports up to 10 user-specific overlays from the SD card from the "Overlay"
directory. The overlays need to be saved as a JPG with 4:2:2 compression and must have both the appropriate resolution and a specifically
defined filename. Various overlays are available for download on the Leica
Microsystems website, as well as a manual for how to create your own
overlays, in the download area for this camera. Follow those instructions
to create new overlays.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 46
Page 47
Setting Image Overlays (continued)
Restoring image overlays (RESTORE OVERLAY)
Resets the overlays to the factory setting: A Leica logo, a crosshair over
the entire live image and a small crosshair in the middle of the live image.
Set transparency (TRANSPARENCY)
The overlay's edges are more or less prominent depending on the selected
setting.
This setting does not change the transparency of the overlay.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 47
Page 48
Configuring Predefined Illumination Scenarios
The Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD is
supplied with various illumination
modes that cover a wide spectrum of possible
situations.
1. Press on the remote control to
display the current illumination mode on
the HD monitor.
2. Press again to switch to the next
illumination mode. The microscope immediately switches the illumination mode and
sets the stored parameters.
3. Wait until the displayed illumination mode
disappears from the monitor. This means
that illumination mode is now active.
To return to the last selected mode, press
until the "LAST USED" setting
appears.
If you do not press for 5 seconds,
the selected illumination mode is
applied.
SequenceChanging the illumination mode
LAST USED
AUTO
BRIGHT FIELD
DARK FIELD
ILLUM MODE 1
ILLUM MODE 2
ILLUM MODE 3
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual User Menu 48
Page 49
Service
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Service 49
Page 50
Care, Maintenance, Contact Persons
General
We hope you enjoy using your high-performance camera. Leica microscope cameras are
renowned for their robustness and long service
life. Observing the following care and cleaning tips will ensure that even after years and
decades, your Leica camera will continue to
work as well as it did on the very first day.
Warranty benefits
The guarantee covers all faults in materials
and manufacture. It does not, however, cover
damage resulting from careless or improper
handling.
Contact address
If your instrument no longer works perfectly,
contact your Leica representative. You can find
information on worldwide Leica representatives on the Leica website:
www.leica-microsystems.com
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Service 50
Page 51
Care, Maintenance, Contact Persons (continued)
Care
O Keeping all optical components clean is
important for maintaining good optical
performance.
O If any optical surface becomes badly coated
with dust or dirt brush it off with a camel
hair brush before attempting to wipe it
clean.
O Optical surfaces should be cleaned using
a lint-free cloth, lens cloth or cotton swab
soaked in methanol or a commercially
available glass cleaner. Do not use alcohol.
O Avoid excessive use of solvents. The lint-
free cloth, lens cloth or cotton swab should
only be lightly moistened with solvent.
O Protect your microscope camera from
moisture, fumes and acids and from alkaline, caustic and corrosive materials and
keep chemicals away from the instruments.
O Plugs, optical systems and mechanical parts
must not be disassembled or replaced,
unless doing so is specifically permitted
and described in this manual.
O Protect your microscope camera from oil
and grease.
O Do not grease guide surfaces or mechani-
cal parts.
Protection from dirt
Dust and dirt will affect the quality of your
results.
O Put an optionally available dust cover over
the microscope camera when it will not be
used for a long time.
O Keep accessories in a dust-free place when
not in use.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Service 51
Page 52
Care, Maintenance, Contact Persons (continued)
Cleaning polymer components
Some components are made of polymer or are
polymer-coated. They are, therefore, pleasant
and convenient to handle. The use of unsuitable cleaning agents and techniques can
damage polymers.
Permitted measures
O Remove dust on the filter glass with a
bellows and a soft paintbrush.
O Your local Leica Service or an appropriately
trained user can replace a dirty or scratched
glass filter in front of the camera sensor.
O Changing the filter requires a suitable tool
(article number 12730487) and replacement filter (article number 12730484).
O Please contact Leica Service for these
service parts and corresponding instructions.
O Clean the objectives with special optics
cleaning cloths and pure alcohol.
Servicing
O Repairs may only be carried out by Leica
Microsystems-trained service technicians.
Only original Leica Microsystems spare
parts may be used.
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Service 52
Page 53
Spare parts
WB
OK
RC2
1
2
4
5
6
3
Item Leica article number Designation
1 19 004 872 HDMI cable (2 m)
2 19 004 871 USB cable (1.8 m)
3 13 302 708 946 915 5 W USB adapter with interchange-
able connector
4 19 004 873 RC2 remote control
5 19 004 870 SD card (4 GB)
6 12 730 229 Footswitch
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Service 53
Page 54
Specifications
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Specifications 54
Page 55
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD
MC120 HD / MC170 HD digital camera
O Weight 250 g (camera only)
O Exposure time 0.5 msec. – 500 sec.
O MC120 HD:
Live image on a computer monitor at up to 10 fps (1600×1200 pixels)
Live image on a computer monitor at up to 24 fps (1024×768 pixels)
O MC170 HD:
Live image on an HDMI monitor at up to 30 fps (1280 x 760 pixels)
Live image on an HDMI monitor at up to 30 fps (1920 x 1080 pixels)
O Full-screen image capture at 2.5 megapixels (MC120 HD) or
5.0 megapixels (MC170 HD)
O Sensor size: 6.1 mm × 4.6 mm
O Pixel size (at max. resolution): 3.34μm × 3.34μm (MC120 HD)
O Pixel size (at max. resolution): 2.35μm × 2.35μm (MC170 HD)
Sensor grade
O Sensor grade: Micron 1/2.3" CMOS
O Gain 1× – 12×
O Color depth 24-bit
O File formats: JPG / TIF / AVI (PC), JPEG / MP4 (HD)
Software
Operating systems: Windows XP, Windows 7, Mac OS X
Leica software: LAS and LAS EZ software (PC), Acquire software (Mac)
Mechanical and optical interfaces
O Mechanical: C-mount thread
O Color filter: Type IRB680, replaceable, (stock number: 12730484)
O Recommended C-mount adapter: 0.55x / 0.5x / 0.4x
Electronic interfaces
O Compatibility: USB 2.0, standard USB plug type B
O High-definition connector: HDMI 1.3, standard HDMI plug type A
O Audio signals for recording, white balance, etc. (can be turned off)
O On/Off switch, PC/HD switch: Available, on rear side of the camera
O Pinhole switch for selecting a different HD resolution
O RC2 infrared remote control, with button battery type CR2025
O Hand and foot trigger, with 1,5 m cable
O 3-color LED for power on (green) / busy (yellow) / error (red)
O Integrated SD slot (Secure Digital)
O Reset function when pinhole switch is pressed longer than 5 seconds
O Firmware update function when pinhole switch is pressed longer
than 10 seconds
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Specifications 55
Page 56
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD (continued)
Power supply voltage and frequency
O Input: 100-240 V, 200 mA
O Output: 5 V, max. 1 A
O Input power 10 W
O Power consumption 4 W
Miscellaneous
O Power supplied via USB cable to computer or to external 5 V USB
power supply unit
O Operating temperature range +5 °C – 50 °C, humidity 10 % – 90 %
O Minimal computer configuration:
PC/Mac, Intel Core 2 Duo,
>2.4 GHz, 4 GB RAM, 24-bit graphics, 1248 × 1024
O CE Declaration of Conformity available
Norms
O EMI/RFI: EN55011-B; EN50082-1
O EMC: 61000-3-2; 61000-3-3
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Specifications 56
Page 57
Dimensional Drawings
62
PC-HD
ON-OFF
52
HDMI
67 92
92
67
Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Specifications 57
Page 58
The productive cooperative effort "with the user, for the user" has
always been the basis for the innovative strength of Leica Microsystems.
On this, we have developed our five corporate values: pioneering, highend quality, team spirit, dedication to science, and continuous improvement. We call making these values reality Living up to Life.
INDUSTRY DIVISION
The Leica Microsystems Industry Division's focus is to support customers' pursuit of the highest quality end result by providing the best and
most innovative imaging systems for their needs to see, measure, and
analyze microstructures. Its solutions are used in routine and research
industrial applications, in materials science and quality control, in
forensic science investigations, and educational applications.
10IDC20060EN_1• © Leica Microsyste ms (S chweiz) AG • CH-9 435 Heerbrug g, 2013 • Printed in Swi tzerland – II I.2 013 – RDV – Im age s, de scr iptions a nd technical dat a subject to change –
we re ser ve the right to make ch anges without n otice • L EIC A and the L eica logo are registe red tra dem ark s of L eica Micr osystems I R Gmb H.
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Leica MC120 HD / MC170 HD User Manual Specifications 58
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