ZEISS Primovert, configured for microfluidics.
A compact inverted microscope configured by Darwin Microfluidics for daily checks and imaging of chips, droplets, and transparent samples, and equally convenient for cell culture.
General
This Primovert configuration is designed for routine microfluidics workflows: quick chip inspection, droplet monitoring, flow and loading QC, and observation of transparent samples using phase contrast. It also works well for everyday cell culture checks. The compact footprint makes it easy to place on busy benches and it can fit in a laminar flow hood.
Why it works well in microfluidics
- Space where you need it: the LD condenser (55 mm working distance) leaves room for chips, connectors, tubing, and holders. You can even remove it if your setup needs more clearance.
- Less fiddling, more results: one PH1 slider supports 10x, 20x, and 40x, so switching magnification stays simple.
- From overview to detail: 4x helps you scan a full chip, then 10x to 40x lets you inspect droplets, channels, and cell regions.
- Imaging workflow ready: binocular phototube supports camera integration, with optional C-mount adapters (0.5x or 0.65x).
- Stable illumination: LED provides consistent color temperature and reduces sample heating compared to traditional lamps.
Typical applications
- Microfluidic droplet generation and monitoring
- Chip loading verification and flow QC checks
- Observation of transparent samples using phase contrast
- Routine cell culture inspection of unstained live cells
Key features
Built for fast daily checks, clean contrast, and easy camera integration.
More space for chips and holders
Long working distance condenser (0.4, 55 mm) keeps a generous working area on the stage. Remove it when extra clearance is needed.
Phase contrast in one step
One PH1 slider covers 10x, 20x and 40x objectives, so you can change magnification without phase alignment.
Stable LED illumination
Long lifetime, stable color temperature, no alignment, and reduced sample heating compared to traditional lamps.
Flexible sample formats
Mounting frames and stage adjustments support slides, dishes, flasks and multi-well plates. The stage can be expanded for many Petri dishes.
Simple imaging workflow (optional)
ZEN lite software lets you control ZEISS cameras, capture images, and view CZI files.
Example application images
- Phase contrast for transparent samples: see live cells and low-contrast structures without staining.
- Two magnifications shown: 20x for overview and 40x for detail.
HeLa cells, phase contrast, 20x and 40x
Content
1x Primovert stand with binocular phototube (50/50) and eyepieces 10x/20 (415510-1101-000)
1x Condenser 0.4 for Primovert (415510-1700-000)
1x Plan-Achromat objective 4x/0.10 (415500-1600-001)
1x Plan-Achromat objective 10x/0.25 Ph1 (415500-1605-001)
1x LD Plan-Achromat objective 20x/0.30 Ph1 (415500-1614-000)
1x LD Plan-Achromat objective 40x/0.50 Ph1 (415500-1617-000)
1x 2-position Phase slider with for Primovert (415510-1806-000)
1x Circular diaphragm Ph1/0.4 for Primovert (415510-1811-000)
1x LED illumination upgrade for Primovert (415510-1201-001)
1x Object guide 108 mm x 72 mm, right-operated for Primovert (415510-1303-000)
1x Mounting frame for slides and Petri dishes (471718-0000-000)
1x External power unit 100 to 240 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz, with country-specific adapters
1x Dust cover
Specifications
Illumination
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Light source
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White-light LED, peak wavelength 450 nm (IEC 62471 risk group 2)
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Homogeneous illumination field
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20 mm diameter
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Brightness adjustment
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Approx. 15 to 100%
|
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Color temperature
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7,000 K (independent of brightness)
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Optics & mechanics
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Maximum field of view
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20
|
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Viewing angle
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45°
|
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Viewing height
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350 to 390 mm
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Eyepiece distance (pupil distance)
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Adjustable from 48 to 75 mm
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Visual output
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Tube factor 1x
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Focus drive (coarse)
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45 mm / rev
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Focus drive (fine)
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0.5 mm / rev
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Total lift
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15 mm
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Nosepiece
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4-position, manual
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Objective thread
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W 0.8
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Object stage
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Permanently installed, 200 mm × 239 mm
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Stage verniers
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X-axis: number scale (right to left); Y-axis: letter scale (read using the mirror)
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Condenser
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LD condenser 0.4 (55 mm), for 4× to 40×
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Objectives (included)
| Objective |
Numerical aperture |
Working distance |
Phase contrast |
| 4x |
0.10 |
12.0 mm |
- |
| 10x |
0.25 |
4.4 mm |
Ph1 |
| 20x |
0.30 |
4.6 mm |
Ph1 |
| 40x |
0.50 |
2.7 mm |
Ph1 |
Physical
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Dimensions (W × D × H)
|
Approx. 261 mm × 552 mm × 494 mm
|
|
Weight (without accessories or packaging)
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Approx. 11 kg
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Environmental conditions
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Transportation (in packaging) – temperature
|
−40°C to +70°C
|
|
Storage – temperature
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+10°C to +40°C
|
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Storage – humidity
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Max. 75% at 35°C (without condensation)
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Operation – area of use
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Closed spaces
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Operation – max. altitude
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2,000 m
|
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Operation – temperature
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+10°C to +40°C
|
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Operation – humidity
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Max. 75% at 35°C (without condensation)
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Electrical & compliance
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Protection class
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II
|
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Protection type
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IP20
|
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Electrical safety
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Pursuant to DIN EN 61010-1 (IEC 61010-1) and in accordance with CSA and UL standards
|
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Degree of pollution
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2
|
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Overvoltage category
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II
|
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Radio interference suppression
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Pursuant to EN 61326-1, EN 61326-2-101
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Main voltage
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100 to 240 V (±10%); worldwide power adapter (no voltage switching required)
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Power frequency
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50/60 Hz
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Microscope DC
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Adjustable 1.5 V to 6 V
|
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LED risk group
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Risk group 2 pursuant to IEC 62471
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Documentation
Primovert brochure
