FAQ

Q: Is a laser absolutely required in order to perform localized point photolysis (uncaging)?
A: Uncaging is a function of the Power vs. Time required to deliver the energy needed to uncage a molecule. Since a laser can deliver concentrated amounts of energy of a specific wavelength in the shortest time frame with the fastest on/off switching, it may be the best option if high speed uncaging is desired. Furthermore, if a spot size of 5 microns or less is desired, a laser is clearly the light source of choice as it is not possible to focus the image of a mercury (or xenon) lamp down to this size while preserving its energy. So if short exposure times and highly localized spatial control are of interest, then YES a laser is the best solution.

Q: Can I use a laser to uncage the entire field of view or a large area simultaneously?
A: No. Since the power delivered to the specimen decreases as the radius² of the illumination spot, there is simply not enough energy from any of the commonly available lasers once their beams have been expanded to fill a large area.

Q: Can I add a photolysis rig to my existing microscope?
A: Our moving spot Single Path Photolysis head is compatible with most upright light microscopes that allow placement of the unit below the epi-fluorescence illuminator and above the objective lens. The Laser Point Module is compatible with virtually all current microscopes equipped with standard epi-fluorescence.

Q: Can I use a single high speed Ti: Sapphire laser for multiple two photon scanners?
A: Yes. In fact, it is more and more common for researchers to place two Ultima systems on a single table with either one or two lasers shared between them. This is a good way to maximize the investment in lasers by allowing two independent experiments to be conducted simultaneously.