Multi-Channel Two-Photon/Confocal System

The Multi-Channel Two-Photon/Confocal Ultima System includes:

Ultima - X-Y Laser Scanner - for Zeiss Axio Examiner
A laser-scanning module interfaced with the Zeiss Axio Examiner microscope to provide raster scanning of laser energy through the objective lens. This scanner is designed to include two independent sets of X-Y galvanometer mounted mirrors in its optical path. The Standard Set to provide raster scan imaging, and the OPTIONAL Second Set to provide precise programmable fixed point positioning of a laser beam to a location referenced to the Standard Set. A unique automated method for ensuring co-localization of the laser beams from the two sets of galvanometers is provided. The system is capable (when purchased with optional equipment) of integrating electrophysiology recording with imaging and uncaging.

Includes:

• Scan control electronics with variable dwell times and multi-channel analogue integration Electronics with 12 Bit A/D.
• Dual Top Mounted External Detectors (Hamamatsu multi-alkali PMTs) designed to optimize collection efficiency and dual emission filters for simultaneous viewing and acquisition from both detectors. PMTs are individually hand selected for low dark current (≤ 10 nA) and sensitivity (> 8500 A/lumen)
• High Performance Imaging Workstation
• PrairieView Software Package for the Ultima PrairieView provides control of scanning and image acquisition for optimization of data collection (includes control of image size, scan rate, camera settings, laser wavelength and power levels). Features include time series (t-series) acquisition rate table for custom design of acquisition scenarios that combine single image and Z-Series acquisitions, laser scan modes (including frame scanning, line scanning, ROI, scan rotation, and optical zoom), and simultaneous acquisition from multi-image channels with independent LUT control for each window.

Three Channel Automated Confocal Detection Module
Includes:

• Automated pinhole selection and automated switching between "Open" and "Pinhole inserted" positions
• Three Descanted Detectors (Hamamatsu multi-alkali PMTs) designed to optimize collection efficiency. PMTs are individually hand selected for low dark current (≤ 10 nA) and sensitivity (> 8500 A/lumen). for simultaneous viewing and acquisition from all detectors
• Software controlled motorized ten-position filter wheels (one per detection channel) with filters
• PrairieView confocal software module for control of AOTF laser intensity, scan area control for simultaneous, and line-by-line sequential image acquisition in different channels.
• Point-Photoactivation Module to allow input from a visible laser via single mode optical fiber into the imaging light path of the Ultima for confocal imaging.

Custom Modified Zeiss Axio Examiner Research Microscope with DIC
Includes:

• Axio Examiner .Z1 Microscope with docking station
• Two-position objective turret
• Six-position filter wheel for fluorescence attenuation and filters
• Condenser carrier and three condensers
• Halogen Lamp with intensity control
• Fluorescence light source with LLG and epi-fluoresence cubes
• DIC Optics including slider, prisms, polarizer and analyzer
• 10X N-Achroplan 10x/0.25 WD=6.0 M27 objective
• 20X W Plan-Apochromat 20x/1.0 DIC VIS-IR objective
• 40X Plan-Apochromat 40x/1.0 DIC VIS-IR objective
• 63X W Plan-Apochromat 63x/1.0 VIS-IR M27 objective

Pockels Cells and Laser Input Optics for Imaging Optical Paths to efficiently couple ultrafast laser to scanner while providing high-speed shuttering, continuous power control and beam blanking of the laser.

Automated Specimen Stage – Moving Platform with manual Z height adjustment range of ~ 2 inches. Designed for electrophysiology experiments. Large platform stage on X-Y cross roller bearings to move attached electrodes (not included) and specimen in X and Y with respect to a fixed microscope. Height is adjustable over approximately 1.5 inches. Includes Prairie X-Y automation controller.

Aurora Laser to Fiber Launch with AOTF [ λ= ~488, ~561, ~643nm]
A laser launch to provide fiber optic delivery of selected laser lines via FC connector with Acoustic Optic Tunable Filter (AOTF) tuned to control included laser wavelengths.
System includes:
~488 nm Solid State Laser. ~50mW output, polarized
~561 nm Solid State Laser. ~50mW output, polarized
~643 nm Solid State Laser. ~40mW output, polarized
Acoustic Optic Tunable Filter (AOTF) tuned to control included laser wavelengths
Laser launch optical plate with mechanical safety switches.
Dichroics and optics for combining laser lines to AOTF.

Microscope Light Box / Faraday Cage and Laser Safety Covers for ultrafast laser beam path.

Installation and Training on use of Ultima system

The price for the system described above is approximately $400,000.00 (USD).

Choice of objectives, filters, lasers and other options may affect this price.

Please contact Prairie for more information.