AmScope T680A Series User manual

T680A SERIES
OPERATOR MANUAL
(Please Read This Manual Before Using the Microscope)
T680A Series
Compound Microscope

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 2 of 63
Copyright © 2015 United Scope Inc. DBA AmScope. All rights reserved.
Copyright Notice
This document, which is in draft form and subject to change without notice, is an
unpublished work containing confidential, trade secret information that is proprietary to
AmScope, and is protected by laws pertaining to such materials. This document, the
information in this document and all rights thereto are the sole and exclusive property of
AmScope and are not to be copied, used or disclosed to anyone, in whole or in part,
without the express written permission of AmScope.
AmScope assumes no liability for any damages incurred, directly or indirectly, from any
errors, omissions or discrepancies between the use of this microscope and the information
contained in this document.
AmScope
Purchasing: 949-333-0001 or 1-888-950-2888 FREE (toll free)
Customer Service: 949-333-0002
Technical Support: 949-333-0004
Shipping: 949-333-0005
Accounting: 949-333-0008
Fax: [phone]

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 3 of 63
Contents
BEFORE USE..............................................................................................................................................................4
1. MICROSCOPE PARTS...............................................................................................................................................5
1.1 Parts Diagram................................................................................................................................................5
1.2 Features .........................................................................................................................................................6
2. OPERATION............................................................................................................................................................7
2.1 Unpacking......................................................................................................................................................7
2.2 Assembly ........................................................................................................................................................8
2.3 Adjusting the View........................................................................................................................................11
2.4 Specimen Set Up...........................................................................................................................................12
2.5 Focusing.......................................................................................................................................................13
2.6 Using the Trinocular Port.............................................................................................................................14
2.7 Attaching a Camera......................................................................................................................................14
2.8 Setting the Stage’s Stop-Limit........................................................................................................................15
2.9 Adjusting Focus Tension...............................................................................................................................15
2.10 Setting the Condenser Lens Adjustment Knob..............................................................................................15
2.11 Adjusting the Iris ........................................................................................................................................16
2.12 Changing a Filter (Optional Accessory) ......................................................................................................16
2.13 Changing the Fuse......................................................................................................................................16
2.14 Using Oil Immersion...................................................................................................................................17
2.15 Using Darkfield Condenser Lenses (Optional Accessories)..........................................................................19
2.16 Using a Dry Darkfield Condenser Lens (Optional Accessory)......................................................................20
2.17 Using Oil Darkfield Condenser Lens (Optional Accessory)..........................................................................21
2.18 Using a Phase Contrast Kit (Optional Accessory)........................................................................................24
2.19 Using a Simple Phase Contrast Kit (Optional Accessory) ............................................................................28
2.20 Using a Turret Phase Contrast Kit (Optional Accessory) .............................................................................33
2.21 Microscope Maintenance ............................................................................................................................38
2.22 Darkfield Condenser Kit & Phase Contrast Kit Maintenance.......................................................................39
3. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................................................................................................40
3.1 Features .......................................................................................................................................................40
3.2 Objectives.....................................................................................................................................................40
3.3 Eyepieces......................................................................................................................................................41
3.4 Cameras.......................................................................................................................................................41
3.5 Darkfield Condensers ...................................................................................................................................42
3.6 Phase Contrast Kits ......................................................................................................................................42
4. PARAMETERS.......................................................................................................................................................43
4.1 Electrical System ..........................................................................................................................................43
4.2 Microscope Parameters ................................................................................................................................43
4.3 Camera Parameters......................................................................................................................................43
5. RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES..............................................................................................................................44
5.1 Eyepieces......................................................................................................................................................44
5.2 Darkfield Condensers ...................................................................................................................................44
5.3 Objective Lenses...........................................................................................................................................45
5.4 Phase Contrast Kits ......................................................................................................................................45
5.5 Cameras and Accessories..............................................................................................................................46
5.6 Fuses............................................................................................................................................................47
5.7 Slides............................................................................................................................................................47
5.8 Cleaners.......................................................................................................................................................47
6. TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................................................................................................................48
6.1 Optical Issues ...............................................................................................................................................48
6.2 Mechanical Issues.........................................................................................................................................49
6.3 Electrical Issues............................................................................................................................................50
7. GENERAL MICROSCOPY GUIDE.............................................................................................................................51

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 4 of 63
Before Use
Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of your new AmScope Microscope! This manual is
designed for T680A series microscopes. Though the microscope’s camera
resolution may vary depending on your series model number, the T680A series
functions remain the same
Please take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the features and functions of
your new microscope. If you want more information on microscope, parts, and
accessories, please visit our website at:
www.AmScope.com
We recommend that you study this manual thoroughly before operating the
microscope and that you keep it on hand for future reference. If you have additional
questions or need assistance, please send us an email at:
[email protected]
Please include the microscope model number in your email so that we can identify
your model and provide immediate help.
Precautions
1. As the microscope is a precision instrument, always handle it with care, avoiding
impact or abrupt movement during transportation. Do not shake the package.
2. Do not place the microscope in direct sunlight or in high heat. Keep it indoors in a
dry and clean place with temperatures between 32°-100° F (0°-40°C), maximum
relative humidity: 85%
3. Avoid touching the lenses on the objective and the eyepiece so that oil and dirt
from your fingerprints do not obstruct your view.
4. Before turning the power on, make sure that the power supply voltage is
consistent with the voltage of your microscope.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 5 of 63
1. Microscope Parts
1.1 Parts Diagram

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 6 of 63
1.2 Features
This is a brand new professional trinocular compound microscope that offers
research grade performance and advanced features. It comes with five high quality
objectives (4X, 10X, 20X, 40X, 100X), a Koehler illumination system, a 30 degree
inclined 360 degree rotatable compensation-free trinocular head, and 3-D
mechanical stage.
It is an ideal instrument for advanced researches. This microscope is made by the
same technicians and on the same production line as optical instruments for Leica,
Zeiss, Nikon and Olympus.
ØAn Advanced First-Class High Quality Laboratory Microscope
ØFully Coated Optical System with High Resolution
ØCrystal Clear Sharp Images
Ø30 Degree Inclined, 360 Degree Swiveling Compensation-free Trinocular
Head
ØTen Magnification Levels: 40X-64X-100X-160X-200X-320X-400X-640X-
1000X-1600X
ØKoehler Illumination System with Field Diaphragm for Lighting Control
ØKoehler Condenser with Iris Diaphragm and Swing-Out Filter Holder
ØIntensity-Variable Transmitted Halogen Lighting System
ØColor Filters Included
ØRack and Pinion Adjustment for Condenser
ØLarge 3-D Double Layer Mechanical Stage
ØLow Position Coaxial Stage Movement Control Knobs
ØDual Side Coaxial Coarse and Fine Focusing Control
ØAdjustable Interpupillary Distance
ØAdjustable Diopters on Both Oculars
ØDurable Cast Alloy Frame & Stand with Stain Resistant Enamel Finish
ØFive Achromatic DIN Objectives Included
ØTwo Sets of Wide Field Eyepiece: Wide Field 10X (18mm Field of View) and
P16X
ØQuintuple, Reversed, Extra-Large Nosepiece with Wide, Knurled Grip for
Easy Operation
ØLarge Double Layer Mechanical Stage with Stain Resistant Finish
ØUpward Stage Stopper to Protect Objectives and Slides
ØA Wide Range of Accessories Available Including Phase Contrast and
Darkfield Condensers.
ØManufactured Under ISO 9001 Quality Control Standard
ØExcellent Five (5) Year Factory Warranty
ØSatisfaction Guaranteed or Money Back!

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 7 of 63
2. Operation
2.1 Unpacking
2.1.1 Unpack the Box
1. Very carefully slide the Styrofoam container out of the cardboard carton.
2. Lay the Styrofoam container on its side. Make sure the side labeled up is up.
3. Remove the tape.
4. Carefully open the Styrofoam container, avoid dropping and damaging the
optical items.
2.1.2 Verify Packing List
Check the packing list to ensure that you’re received all items:
ØOne Trinocular Siedentopf Head
ØOne Microscope Body Frame with Base and Kohler Illumination System
ØFour High Quality Objectives: 4X, 10X, 40X and 100X
ØOne Pair of Widefield WF10X Eyepieces
ØOne Pair of Widefield P16X Eyepieces
ØOne Power Cord
ØColor Filters
ØOne Dust Cover
ØOne Spare Halogen Bulb
ØOne Spare Fuse
ØImmersion Oil
ØOne 3MP USB2.0 Digital Camera with Reduction Lens (for T680A-3M
model only)
ØOne 5MP USB2.0 Digital Camera with Reduction Lens (for T680A-5M
model only)
ØOne 9MP USB2.0 Digital Camera with Reduction Lens (for T680A-9M
model only)
ØOne USB Cable (for T680A-3M, T680A-5M, T680A-9M models only)
ØTwo Mounting Adapters for the Camera (for T680A-3M, T680A-5M,
T680A-9M models only)
ØOne CD with Driver, Software and User's Instructions (for T680A-3M,
T680A-5M, T680A-9M models only)
ØShipping Weight: 28 lbs

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 8 of 63
2.2 Assembly
2.2.1 Carefully Remove Microscope from Box
Remove the microscope body from the box and remove
the plastic protective covering.
The body of the microscope is composed of the base, the
stage, the arm, and the nosepiece.
2.2.2 Install the Microscope Head
Carefully take the microscope head
out of the plastic bag, making sure
not to touch glass.
Place the bottom side of the
microscope head (flat, circular side
down) into the circular opening on
top of the arm (just above the
nosepiece and lock screw).
Tighten the head lock with an Allen
key to secure the head in place.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 9 of 63
2.2.3 Install the Trinocular Port and C-Mount
Unscrew and remove the photo port cap from the top side
of the microscope head.
Screw in the Trinocular port.
If your camera has a c-mount, insert the c-mount adapter
onto the Trinocular port. If your camera does not have a c-
mount, you can skip this step.
2.2.4 Insert Eyepieces Remove the eyetube caps.
Place the desired eyepieces into the empty
eye/ocular tubes.
Be sure to avoid touching the lenses.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 10 of 63
2.2.5 Insert Objective Lenses
Unpack the objective lenses. Screw the objectives into the microscope nosepiece.
Start with the lowest magnification, and in order
of magnification, insert each lens, without
touching the glass.
2.2.6 Plug it in, turn it on, and adjust the dimmer if more light is needed.
Plug in the microscope and turn it on.
If no light emerges from the light source,
adjust the dimmer knob next to the on/off
switch.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 11 of 63
2.3 Adjusting the View
2.3.1 Choose forward or reverse viewing
The microscope head rotates to allow for forward or reverse viewing.
There is no difference as far as the optics; it depends on what’s comfortable. In
forward position you are looking over the stage, in reverse position you are
looking at the stage.
Once you’ve chosen your preferred microscope head position, lock the head-lock
screw.
2.3.2 Focus the distance between your eyes.
(The interpupillary distance, the distance between your eye pupils.)
With both eyes open, look into the eyepieces. Adjust the interpupillary distance
by holding the eyetubes and rotating the tubes either towards or away from each
other until only one circle of light is seen by both eyes.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 12 of 63
2.4 Specimen Set Up
2.4.1 Prepare the Specimen
Place the specimen to be studied on a glass slide
(or use a prepared slide, purchase separately).
Using a cover slip is highly recommended.
2.4.2 Secure the Slide
Place the slide on the stage, holding it snugly in place
with the metal slide holders (clips) of the mechanical
stage.
2.4.3 Center the Specimen
Using the mechanical stage controls, center the slide
over the stage opening, lining it up with the light and the
objective lens.
The top ring moves the stage forward and backward.
The bottom ring moves the stage from left to right
2.4.4 Adjust the dimmer if more light is needed.
To adjust the illumination, slowly turn the dimmer on the
right side of the base until the desired intensity of light
is achieved.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 13 of 63
2.5 Focusing
2.5.1 Choose an Objective Lens
Turn the nosepiece to choose an objective. It is easiest
to use the lowest magnification first (4X objective) to
locate and focus on the specimen. As you move up in
magnification you will need to refocus the image a little
each time.
2.5.2 Parfocal Under the diopters on the eyepieces, there are
numbered rings. Set these rings to 0 and the image
should remain in focus for the entire magnification
range. This will enable you to stay more in focus when
you add a camera or switch objective lenses.
2.5.3 Focus one eye at time
1. Look with one eye through the eyetube without
the diopter.
2. Close your other eye.
3. Focus the image using the coarse focusing knob.
Adjust the height of the stage until the sample
comes into clear focus.
2.5.4 Focus your other eye
1. Close the first eye. Open the other one.
2. Look with the second eye through the eyepiece
with the diopter.
3. Turn the diopter until the image is clear through
the side as well.
2.5.5 Re-center Specimen and Re-focus
When you change magnification levels, you may need to re-center the specimen.
When you change magnification levels, you will need to re-focus.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 14 of 63
2.6 Using the Trinocular Port
The AmScope T680A model is uniquely designed so that you can
view the image through the eyepieces and the Trinocular port
simultaneously, as well as fine tune the focus of the camera with
a C-mount focus adjustment.
You do not need an adapter to attach your AmScope camera to
the Trinocular port; however you may need one if you have a non-
AmScope camera. Our photo port is a 23mm size.
2.7 Attaching a Camera
Most AmScope cameras come with a reduction lens.
Reduction lenses align the magnification of the
microscope’s image with the capacity of the digital
camera’s sensor.
The specimen’s image seen through the magnified
objective lens is very large. The reduction lens renders
the image in a size compatible with the smaller size of
the digital camera’s sensor.
1. If your camera has a 23mm mounting size, you do not
need the C-mount adapter. If installed, remove the C-
mount from the top of the Trinocular port by loosening
the screw.
2. Place the camera (mounted on a reduction lens) directly
into the Trinocular port. It should slide in without issue.
3. Focus through the Trinocular port, by turning the middle
portion of the tube.
4. Open up your AmScope Digital Camera Solution
software on your computer and let it connect to your
microscope.
If your camera needs a C-mount adapter, attach the adapter to your camera and screw
the adapter into the Trinocular port. Plug one end of the cord directly into the camera
and the USB end into your computer.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 15 of 63
2.8 Setting the Stage’s Stop-Limit
1. Unlock the stop-limit on the stage.
2. Adjust the stage to the desired maximum
height.
3. Lock the stop-limit. This allows you to limit
the movement of the stage from the bottom
of the range up to the point it is set at.
4. To reset it, unlock the stage and reset the
stage to the new height.
If no limit is desired, simply unlock the stop-
limit.
2.9 Adjusting Focus Tension
1. To adjust the tension of the focusing knobs,
first locate the black ridged tension knob on
the inside of the coarse focusing knob.
2. To decrease tension, rotate the adjustment
forward, towards the stage
(counterclockwise). To increase, rotate away
from the stage (clockwise).
Note: If your stage is slipping down after setting the focus, you need to increase the
tension.
2.10 Setting the Condenser Lens Adjustment Knob
The condenser adjustment knob raises and
lowers the condenser’s distance to the base
lens, varying light delivery.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 16 of 63
2.11 Adjusting the Iris
By changing the aperture (hole size) of the
iris/diaphragm of the condenser, you can adjust
the background brightness. Adjust the aperture
of the iris diaphragm using the iris adjustment
slider located directly under the stage.
2.12 Changing a Filter (Optional Accessory)
1. At the bottom of the condenser lens, there is a small ring that slides out.
Swivel the ring as far out as possible.
2. Insert the preferred colored glass filter.
3. Slide the ring back into place.
Note: The filter holder is placed in from the factory in a manner in which it swings out
and hits the arm of the microscope (backwards). If this happens, simply grip the
condenser assembly and rotate it. It may take a small amount of force to rotate it,
but after doing so, you will be able to swing the filter holder out towards the front
of the unit for easier operation.
2.13 Changing the Fuse
The fuse port is on the back of the microscope on the base between the on/off
switch and the power inlet.
1. Turn off and unplug the microscope.
2. Be sure to remove the eyepieces from the
unit before turning the microscope over to
prevent them from falling and breaking.
3. Carefully turn the microscope on its side,
exposing the base.
4. Using a flat head screwdriver, unscrew the
cover and replace the T1A fuse.
5. Screw the fuse cover back in.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 17 of 63
2.14 Using Oil Immersion
When using the 100X objective, a drop of immersion oil should be
placed between the cover slip and the objective to minimize distortion
caused by air.
1. Place the slide on the stage and center the
specimen.
2. Close the condenser’s aperture iris and ensure that the
specimen focused and centered as possible. Increase
light intensity once the specimen is clearly illuminated.
3. Move the objectives out of the way to enable access
to the slide. Place a drop of immersion oil directly
onto the slide’s cover slip, not directly on the
specimen; a cover slip MUST be used.
4. Release the stage stop limit.
5. Lower your oil immersion lens (100X objective) into
position so that the front lens is immersed in the oil. If
your lens is not immersed, use the coarse focusing
knobs to adjust the height of the stage to the proper
levels. The oil lens should be immersed in oil, but not
touching the slide.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 18 of 63
6. Adjust the focusing knob, watch for the field of view to
come into focus. This is best seen when the iris of the
condenser is smaller than the field of the objective. Use
the fine focusing knob to make adjustments.
7. Re-engage the stage stop limit.
8. When the specimen is in focus, adjust the
iris to open just larger than the condenser’s
diameter.
9. After using the oil immersion lens, you will need to clean the lens and
specimen before the oil dries.
Note: Please be careful when using the stage stop limit. The stage limit stop
is designed to prevent impact between objective and slide, so when it
is off you can damage the microscope or the slide.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 19 of 63
2.15 Using Darkfield Condenser Lenses (Optional Accessories)
Darkfield Illumination is a lighting method for increasing contrast. A darkfield
condenser lens produces bright images against a dark background for low contrast
biological specimens.
The dry darkfield condenser is for low power magnifications,
such as with the 4X, 10X or 40X objective lenses, with
numeric apertures of .65 or less.
The oil darkfield condenser is for high power magnifications,
the 40X and 100X objective lenses, with numeric apertures
of 1.25 or higher.
2.15.1 Installing a Darkfield Condenser Lens
1. Use the condenser lens adjustment knob
to lower the condenser so you have easy
access to the condenser knob.
2. Loosen the condenser lock screw and
replace the condenser lens.
3. Install the darkfield condenser lens and
tighten the condenser lock thumb screw
on the condenser holder.
When choosing a darkfield condenser, be sure the
condenser’s numerical aperture is larger than the
numerical aperture of the objective lens.
If the objective lens aperture is larger than the aperture of
the darkfield condenser, direct light will be transmitted and
a darkfield will not be achieved.

T680A Series Microscope
AmScope Proprietary Page 20 of 63
2.16 Using a Dry Darkfield Condenser Lens (Optional Accessory)
2.16.1 Using the Dry Darkfield Condenser
1. The first step is centering the condenser. Move the 10X objective lens into the
light path.
2. Remove an eyepiece and look through the
empty eye tube, to see the condenser’s
image directly.
3. Use the condenser lens adjustment knob to
adjust the height of the condenser until the
opaque disc is slightly smaller than the
entire image circle, leaving a ring of light.
4. Turn the condenser’s centering screws to
move the dark spot to the center.
5. Replace the eyepieces.
6. Raise the condenser to the top of its range,
just short of the slide on the stage. The is
the optimal position for darkfield viewing,
but can be adjusted later, if necessary.
7. Place a slide on the stage and focus. Adjust
the height of the stage up or down slightly for
optimal viewing, but the condenser lens should
be relatively close to the slide.
8. If you are using a variable numerical
aperture objective lens, adjust the ring at
the bottom to fine tune the darkfield.