Nikon DS-L3 User manual


Other
Information
Changing
Settings
Adding Annotations
and Measuring
Photographing and
Playing Images
Photographing
Basics of DS-L3
Please Read
First
Connecting to
PC, Printer, and
Network
DS Camera Control Unit
DS Camera Head
DS-Fi2 / DS-Fi1 / DS-Vi1
DS Cooled Camera Head
DS-Qi1Mc / DS-Fi1c / DS-Ri1
< Instructions >
Camera Operation
M555 E 11.9.NF.1 (1/3)
*M555EN01*

Preface
i
Preface
Preface
Thank you for purchasing the Nikon products. This instruction manual has been prepared for users of the DS-L3 DS
Camera Control Unit, DS-Fi2/DS-Fi1/DS-Vi1 DS Camera Head, and DS-Qi1Mc/DS-Fi1c/DS-Ri1 DS Cooled Camera
Head. To ensure correct use, please read this manual carefully before use.
•No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from Nikon.
•The appearance of the actual product may differ from the illustrations in this manual.
•The contents of this manual are subject to change without notice.
•Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this manual, errors or inconsistencies may remain. If you
note any points that are unclear or incorrect, please contact your nearest Nikon representative.
•Some of the equipment described in this manual may not be included in the set you have purchased.
•If you intend to use any other equipment with this product, read the manual for that equipment too.
•If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be
impaired.
Symbols used in this manual
This manual uses the following symbols.
This icon marks precautions or information that should be observed for safety. Depending on the severity of the
risk, “WARNING” and “CAUTION” are indicated together with this icon.
This icon marks precautions or information that should be observed to avoid malfunction and failure of this
product.
This icon marks notes or information that should be read before use. It also marks tips or additional information
that may be helpful when using this product.
Trademarks in this manual
•Microsoft, Windows, and Internet Explorer are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and
other countries.
•Macintosh, Mac OS, and Safari are trademarks or registered trademarks of Apple Inc. in the United States and other
countries.
•Firefox is a trademark or registered trademark of Mozilla Foundation in the United States and other countries.
•Java and other trademarks including Java are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the U.S.
and other countries.
•Intel Core 2 Duo is a registered trademark or a trademark of Intel Corporation in the United States and other countries.
•CompactFlash is a trademark of SanDisk Corporation in the United States.
•The PictBridge logo mark is a trademark.
•Products and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
•The “TM” and ® marks are not used to identify registered trademarks and trademarks in manual.
•The character font data used in this equipment is provided by Morisawa & Company Ltd., and the related copyright
belongs to Morisawa & Company Ltd.
Contents of the Manual
DS Camera Control Unit DS-L3 is composed of the following three volumes:
◆Camera Operation
This manual. Explains how to install and connect DS-L3, the operation of the touch panel, and the operation of the DS
camera head connected to DS-L3.
◆Quick Reference
Provides a brief explanation on how to operate the DS-L3.
◆Microscope Operation
Explains how to check the status of the microscope on the DS-L3 screen and how to operate the microscope.

Features of This Product
ii
Features of This Product
Features of This Product
Nikon DS Camera Control Unit DS-L3 is a device to photograph or play pictures with a Nikon DS camera head or DS
cooled camera head connected.
The live picture displayed on the touch panel LCD monitor can be captured and saved as a still image in a storage media
device such as a compact flash (CF) card or USB drive. You can replay captured images, add annotations, or make an
additional measurement on the screen.
This device is equipped with a microscope control function allowing the user to control the motorized equipment of a Nikon
microscope or to detect and display the status of the microscope on the screen.
•Support of various DS camera heads
Nikon DS camera head DS-Fi2/DS-Fi1/DS-Vi1 or DS cooled camera head DS-Qi1Mc/DS-Fi1c/DS-Ri1 can be connected
to this device. The connected DS camera head is automatically recognized and appropriate settings items are displayed
depending on its resolution and the presence of cooling mechanism.
•Built-in touch panel LCD monitor
This device is equipped with 8.4-inch touch panel LCD monitor enabling on-screen operation for viewing and taking live
pictures, replaying captured images, and configuring camera and microscope settings. The operation can be made by a
stylus or a commercially available USB mouse. Its user-friendly button-based interface provides access to various DS-L3
functions.
•Support for CF cards and USB memory sticks
Captured images can be saved in a CF card and a USB memory stick. You can save an image in a specified storage
media and a folder.
•Output to an external monitor
Images can be output to any commercially available XGA or SXGA external monitor. The device supports the DDC
(Display Data Channel) interface, enabling itself to automatically identify the video signal of any display that supports the
same standard.
•Consecutive capture with interval timer
Multiple images can be automatically captured at intervals by specifying the number of pictures and the interval length.
This function allows you to observe how the subject changes or to photograph a subject consecutively with different
photographing conditions.
•Annotations to images
You can add grid, cross scale, or other scales, or annotations by text, line, or marker. Images can be captured with
annotations added.
•Brief measurement on the screen
Distance, angle and circumference of a circle can be measured briefly by operation on the screen.
•PC connection
A PC can be connected to DS-L3 by the USB interface. You can use DS-L3 as a removable medium of the PC, or by
installing a specialized PC application (NIS-Elements), you can load images to the PC and edit them.
•Direct printing
With a PictBridge-compatible printer connected to DS-L3 through the USB interface, you can print images directly from
DS-L3.
•Networking
By connecting DS-L3 to your PC network, you can retrieve DS-L3 pictures to a PC or transfer pictures from DS-L3 to a
PC.
•Microscope control
This device is equipped with a microscope control function allowing you to connect a Nikon microscope and to control its
motorized equipment from the screen, or to detect and display the status of the microscope on the screen. Refer to a
separate volume of this manual, “Microscope Operation” for details.

Configuration of This Manual
iii
Photographing and
Playing Images
Photographing
Basics of DS-L3
Please Read
First
Other
Information
Changing
Settings
Adding Annotations
and Measuring
Connecting to
PC, Printer, and
Network
Configuration of This Manual
This instruction manual has the following items about operation of this product:
•Preface
•Contents of the Manual
•Features of This Product
•Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
Please Read First
•Chapter 1 Before Use
•Chapter 2 Names of Parts and Their Functions
•Chapter 3 Installation and Connection
•Chapter 4 Preparing for Use
•Chapter 5 Working with Touch Panel
Photographing Basics of DS-L3
•Chapter 6 Capturing Images with Simple Operations
•Chapter 7 Tips on Photographing
Photographing and Playing Images
•Chapter 8 Capturing Images with Advanced Setting Menu — CAMERA MENU
•Chapter 9 Playing Back and Deleting Images — VIEW MENU
Adding Annotations and Measuring
•Chapter 10 Preparation for Using Annotation Function and Measurement Function
•Chapter 11 Adding Lines and Annotations to an Image — TOOL MENU
•Chapter 12 On-Screen Measurement — TOOL BAR
Changing Settings
•Chapter 13 Changing Settings — SETUP MENU
Connecting to PC, Printer, and Network
•Chapter 14 Connecting to a PC
•Chapter 15 Performing Direct Printing
•Chapter 16 Connecting to Network
Other Information
•Chapter 17 Differences in Operation Depending on
DS Camera Head Models
•Chapter 18 Troubleshooting
•Chapter 19 Capturing from External I/O Devices
•Chapter 20 Daily Maintenance
•Chapter 21 Major Specifications

Table of Contents
iv
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Preface .................................................................................................................................................................i
Contents of the Manual.........................................................................................................................................i
Features of This Product......................................................................................................................................ii
Configuration of This Manual .............................................................................................................................. iii
Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use) ...........................................................................xi
Part 1 Please Read First
Before Use ......................................................................................................................................2
1.1 Confirmation of Accessories .................................................................................................................... 2
1.2 DS Camera Heads That Can Be Controlled from DS-L3......................................................................... 3
1.3 Peripheral Devices That Can Be Used .................................................................................................... 4
Names of Parts and Their Functions............................................................................................7
2.1 DS-L3 DS Camera Control Unit............................................................................................................... 7
2.2 DS Camera Head .................................................................................................................................... 9
Installation and Connection ........................................................................................................10
3.1 Installing DS-L3 ..................................................................................................................................... 10
3.1.1 Using Standard Stand for Installation ....................................................................................... 10
3.1.2 Mounting on Commercially Available Arm ................................................................................ 10
3.2 Connecting DS-L3 and Peripheral Devices ............................................................................................11
3.2.1 Overall Connection ...................................................................................................................11
3.2.2 Connecting a DS Camera Head............................................................................................... 12
(1) Attaching DS camera head to an optical device.............................................................. 12
(2) Connecting a DS camera head and DS-L3 ..................................................................... 13
3.2.3 Connecting an External Monitor............................................................................................... 14
3.2.4 Connecting USB Peripheral Devices ....................................................................................... 15
3.2.5 Connecting PC or Printer by USB Cable.................................................................................. 16
(1) Connecting a PC............................................................................................................. 16
(2) Connecting PictBridge-compatible printer ....................................................................... 17
3.2.6 Connecting to Network (LAN) .................................................................................................. 18
(1) Connecting to LAN through a network hub ..................................................................... 18
(2) Connecting to the PC directly without using LAN............................................................ 19
3.2.7 Connecting AC Adapter............................................................................................................ 20
Preparing for Use.........................................................................................................................21
4.1 Starting/Closing DS-L3 .......................................................................................................................... 21
4.1.1 Starting DS-L3.......................................................................................................................... 21
4.1.2 Switching Off............................................................................................................................ 22
4.2 Setting Display Language and Date and Time ......................................................................................23
4.2.1 Setting Display Language ........................................................................................................23
4.2.2 Setting Date and Time ............................................................................................................. 23
4.3 Preparing the Recording Medium .......................................................................................................... 24
4.3.1 Handling Recording Medium.................................................................................................... 24
4.3.2 Inserting CF (Compact Flash) Card ......................................................................................... 26
(1) Inserting CF card ............................................................................................................ 26
(2) Removing CF card .......................................................................................................... 26
4.3.3 Connecting a USB Memory...................................................................................................... 27
Chapter
1
Chapter
2
Chapter
3
Chapter
4

Table of Contents
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Table of Contents
(1) Connecting and removing a USB memory...................................................................... 27
(2) Initializing a USB memory ............................................................................................... 27
4.3.4 Initializing Recording Medium .................................................................................................. 28
4.4 Adjusting Image Quality of External Monitor.......................................................................................... 29
Working with Touch Panel...........................................................................................................30
5.1 Touch Panel Operation .......................................................................................................................... 30
5.1.1 Operation Using the Stylus....................................................................................................... 30
5.1.2 Operation Using a Mouse ........................................................................................................ 30
5.2 Navigating through Screen Menus ........................................................................................................ 31
5.2.1 Menu Configuration and Method of Displaying Menus............................................................. 31
5.2.2 Displaying Task Bar.................................................................................................................. 33
5.2.3 Switching the Menu.................................................................................................................. 34
(1) Switching operation menus ............................................................................................. 34
(2) Switching between [CAMERA MENU], [VIEW MENU], and [TOOL MENU].................... 35
(3) Switching between screens of [TOOL SET MENU]......................................................... 36
(4) Switching between screens of [INFO MENU].................................................................. 36
(5) Switching between screens of [SETUP MENU] .............................................................. 37
5.2.4 Operating Buttons and Setting Screens of Operation Menu .................................................... 38
5.2.5 Switching between Camera Control and Microscope Control .................................................. 40
Part 2 Photographing Basics of DS-L3
Capturing Images with Simple Operations ................................................................................42
6.1 Operation of Capturing Images ............................................................................................................. 42
6.2 Displaying [CAMERA MENU] ................................................................................................................ 43
6.3 White Balance (Only for Color DS Camera Heads) ............................................................................... 44
6.4 Checking Subject Conditions through Live Image ................................................................................. 45
6.5 Exposure Compensation ....................................................................................................................... 46
6.6 Capturing Displayed Images ................................................................................................................. 47
6.6.1 Capturing a Live Image ............................................................................................................ 48
6.6.2 Capturing after Freezing the Live Image .................................................................................. 49
Tips on Photographing ................................................................................................................ 50
7.1 Checking the Image Condition .............................................................................................................. 50
7.1.1 Checking the Histogram of the Image...................................................................................... 50
7.1.2 Checking the Microscope Condition......................................................................................... 50
7.2 Setting the Environment for Microscope Photographing........................................................................ 51
7.2.1 Setting up the Environment......................................................................................................51
(1) Adjusting the brightness of the environment ................................................................... 51
(2) Preventing tremor ........................................................................................................... 51
7.2.2 Setting up the Microscope Condition ....................................................................................... 51
(1) Using an appropriate filter ............................................................................................... 51
(2) Setting the field diaphragm ............................................................................................. 52
(3) Setting the aperture diaphragm....................................................................................... 52
(4) Adjusting the focus on the subject .................................................................................. 52
(5) Adjusting the lighting....................................................................................................... 53
(6) Adjusting the exposure time............................................................................................ 53
7.3 Calculating the Display Magnification for Microscopic Observation....................................................... 54
Chapter
5
Chapter
6
Chapter
7

Table of Contents
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Table of Contents
Part 3 Photographing and Playing Images
Capturing Images with Advanced Setting Menu .......................................................................56
8.1 Operating Camera Menu ....................................................................................................................... 56
8.1.1 Displaying [CAM MENU] .......................................................................................................... 56
8.1.2 Switching between [CAM MENU] Screens............................................................................... 57
8.2 Basic Operations of Photographing ....................................................................................................... 58
8.2.1 Using Scene Modes and Custom Setting................................................................................. 59
(1) Using a scene mode ....................................................................................................... 59
(2) Using custom setting....................................................................................................... 61
8.2.2 Setting the White Balance........................................................................................................ 62
8.2.3 Adjusting the Exposure ............................................................................................................ 63
(1) Compensating the exposure ........................................................................................... 64
(2) Using the AE lock............................................................................................................ 65
(3) Setting the exposure time ............................................................................................... 66
(4) Setting the camera gain .................................................................................................. 67
8.2.4 Capturing Displayed Images .................................................................................................... 68
(1) Capturing the live image directly ..................................................................................... 69
(2) Capturing the image after having it pause....................................................................... 70
(3) Performing consecutive capture with interval timer......................................................... 71
(4) Capturing a replayed image again .................................................................................. 72
(5) Capturing images with the screen divided into sub-screens on the left and right............ 73
(6) Capturing an image together with scales, annotations, and measurement results ......... 74
(7) Capturing images by operations from PC ....................................................................... 75
8.2.5 Photographing Procedure Using DF/FL Scene Mode .............................................................. 76
8.3 Configuring Photographing Details ........................................................................................................ 78
8.3.1 Setting Items of the [CAM MENU: CAMERA] Screen .............................................................. 78
(1) Switching the image mode (operation mode of the image pickup device) ...................... 79
(2) Changing the exposure mode ......................................................................................... 82
(3) Switching the metering mode.......................................................................................... 84
(4) Switching the metering area............................................................................................ 85
(5) Using the AE lock............................................................................................................ 88
(6) How to use function buttons............................................................................................ 89
8.3.2 Setting Items of the [CAM MENU: IMAGE] Screen.................................................................. 90
(1) Adjusting the image ........................................................................................................ 91
8.3.3 Setting Items of the [CAM MENU: NR/SD/SET] Screen .......................................................... 94
(1) Setting NR (noise reduction) ........................................................................................... 95
(2) Selecting an SD (shading) value..................................................................................... 96
(3) Registering SD (shading) adjustment value .................................................................... 97
(4) Registering a custom setting........................................................................................... 98
(5) Returning the photographing condition to the initial value............................................... 99
8.3.4 Setting Items of the [CAM MENU: SHOT/REC] Screen......................................................... 101
(1) Setting the shot mode ................................................................................................... 102
(2) Specifying a save media and folder .............................................................................. 103
(3) Switching between on and off of the log saving ............................................................ 104
(4) Configuring the recording mode.................................................................................... 105
Playing Back and Deleting Images ...........................................................................................109
9.1 Operating the VIEW Menu................................................................................................................... 109
9.1.1 Displaying the [VIEW MENU]................................................................................................. 109
9.2 Playing Back an Image.........................................................................................................................110
(1) Playing back an image...................................................................................................110
(2) Selecting an image from the thumbnail to play it back ...................................................112
(3) Enlarging an image using the electronic zoom function .................................................114
Chapter
8
Chapter
9

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Table of Contents
(4) Splitting a window into right and left windows ................................................................115
9.3 Deleting an Image ................................................................................................................................116
(1) Deleting an image from the folder ..................................................................................116
(2) Selecting an image from the thumbnail window to delete it ...........................................117
(3) Deleting a folder and all images inside it........................................................................118
Part 4 Adding Annotations and Measuring
Preparation for Using Annotation Function and Measurement Function ............................. 120
10.1 Before Use .......................................................................................................................................... 120
10.1.1 Notes about Annotation and Simplified Measurement ........................................................... 120
10.1.2 Configuring Units and Calibration .......................................................................................... 122
(1) Switching unit settings .................................................................................................. 122
(2) Switching calibration mode ........................................................................................... 123
10.1.3 Overlay................................................................................................................................... 124
(1) Overview of overlay ...................................................................................................... 124
(2) Using overlay ................................................................................................................ 125
Adding Lines and Annotations to an Image.............................................................................127
11.1 Displaying the Tool Menu .................................................................................................................... 128
11.2 Changing Scaling and Measurement Settings..................................................................................... 129
11.2.1 Performing Basic Settings for Comment Function and Measurement Function ..................... 130
11.2.2 Configuring Cross Hairs .........................................................................................................131
11.2.3 Setting How to Draw Grid Lines ............................................................................................. 132
11.2.4 Registering Calibration Settings............................................................................................. 133
11.3 Operating Scales ................................................................................................................................. 135
11.3.1 Performing XY Measurement................................................................................................. 135
11.3.2 Displaying X Scales (Cross Scales)....................................................................................... 136
11.3.3 Displaying Scales................................................................................................................... 137
11.3.4 Display Cross Hair and Circles .............................................................................................. 138
11.3.5 Displaying Grid on Screen ..................................................................................................... 140
11.4 Adding Lines and Comments to an Image...........................................................................................141
11.4.1 Inserting Text Annotation........................................................................................................ 141
11.4.2 Drawing Straight Lines and Arrows ........................................................................................ 142
11.4.3 Drawing Free Lines................................................................................................................ 143
11.4.4 Counting Points Using Markers.............................................................................................. 144
On-Screen Measurement...........................................................................................................145
12.1 Displaying Toolbar ............................................................................................................................... 146
12.2 Measuring on an Image....................................................................................................................... 147
12.2.1 Measuring Distance between Two Points .............................................................................. 147
12.2.2 Measuring Length of a Perpendicular Line............................................................................. 148
12.2.3 Measuring Angle .................................................................................................................... 149
12.2.4 Measuring Diameter and Circumference of Circle ................................................................. 150
12.2.5 Measuring the Area of a Polygon ........................................................................................... 151
12.2.6 Measuring Distance between Centers of Two Circles ............................................................ 152
12.2.7 Measuring Pitch Distance ...................................................................................................... 153
12.3 Operating Measurement Results ......................................................................................................... 154
12.3.1 Canceling the Last Measurement Result ............................................................................... 154
12.3.2 Redoing Cancelled Measurement Result............................................................................... 154
12.3.3 Erasing an Arbitrary Measurement Result.............................................................................. 154
12.3.4 Erasing All Measurement Results .......................................................................................... 155
Chapter
10
Chapter
11
Chapter
12

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12.3.5 Updating Display of Overlay................................................................................................... 155
12.3.6 Writing Measurement Results to CSV File ............................................................................. 155
12.3.7 Displaying or Hiding Overlay.................................................................................................. 156
12.3.8 Switching Calibration Settings................................................................................................ 156
Part 5 Changing Settings
Changing Settings ..................................................................................................................... 158
13.1 Operating Setup Menu ........................................................................................................................ 158
13.2 Configuring Basic Settings .................................................................................................................. 161
13.2.1 Configuring Menu Display ...................................................................................................... 162
(1) Calling custom settings on startup ................................................................................ 162
(2) Changing preset of scene mode ................................................................................... 163
(3) Configuring the menu location ...................................................................................... 163
(4) Switching the language................................................................................................. 164
13.2.2 Configuring Monitor................................................................................................................ 165
(1) Adjusting the color balance of the internal LCD ............................................................ 165
(2) Configuring the display mode of the internal LCD and external monitor ....................... 166
(3) Configuring the backlight of the internal LCD................................................................ 167
(4) Mirroring images ........................................................................................................... 167
(5) Adjusting the color balance of external monitor output signal ....................................... 168
(6) Configuring the DDC interface ...................................................................................... 169
13.2.3 Configuring Function Buttons................................................................................................. 170
13.2.4 Configuring Other Settings..................................................................................................... 172
(1) Configuring USB (D) connector operating mode........................................................... 172
(2) Configuring the cooling camera .................................................................................... 173
13.3 Configuring Network Settings .............................................................................................................. 174
13.3.1 Configuring HTTP Server....................................................................................................... 175
(1) Enabling or disabling network connection ..................................................................... 175
(2) Acquiring an IP address from the DHCP server............................................................ 176
(3) Specifying a fixed IP address and a subnet mask......................................................... 177
(4) Configuring authentication against web browser access .............................................. 178
13.3.2 Configuring FTP Client........................................................................................................... 179
(1) Enabling or disabling FTP client.................................................................................... 179
(2) Registering/changing FTP server settings .................................................................... 180
(3) Switching FTP server (No.1 to No.5)............................................................................. 181
(4) Connectivity test against FTP server............................................................................. 182
13.4 Changing Image File Settings ............................................................................................................. 183
13.4.1 Configuring Automatic Folder Generation .............................................................................. 184
(1) Configuring automatic folder creation on recording medium ......................................... 184
(2) Configuring automatic folder creation in FTP server ..................................................... 185
13.4.2 Configuring File Naming Convention ..................................................................................... 186
13.4.3 Initializing Recording Medium ................................................................................................ 187
13.5 Changing Overall Settings................................................................................................................... 188
13.5.1 Setting Date and Time ...........................................................................................................189
13.5.2 Configuring Capture Function ................................................................................................ 190
13.5.3 Configuring Electronic Zoom Factor....................................................................................... 191
13.5.4 Configuring Printer Output ..................................................................................................... 192
13.5.5 Configuring Other Settings..................................................................................................... 193
(1) Setting the power-saving timer...................................................................................... 193
(2) Setting the mouse pointer speed .................................................................................. 193
(3) Setting the capture sound volume................................................................................. 194
(4) Displaying a test chart................................................................................................... 194
Chapter
13

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Table of Contents
Part 6 Connecting to PC, Printer, and Network
Connecting to a PC ....................................................................................................................196
14.1 Connecting the DS-L3 to a PC ............................................................................................................ 196
14.1.1 Setting the USB (D) Connector Operating Mode ................................................................... 196
14.1.2 Connecting the DS-L3 to a PC with a USB Cable.................................................................. 197
14.2 Using the DS-L3 as an External Recording Medium of PC ................................................................. 198
14.3 Accessing the DS-L3 Using NIS-Elements..........................................................................................199
Performing Direct Printing ........................................................................................................200
15.1 Connecting a Printer............................................................................................................................ 200
15.1.1 Setting the USB (D) Connector Operating Mode ................................................................... 200
15.1.2 Connecting the DS-L3 to a Printer with a USB Cable ............................................................ 201
15.2 Printing an Image ................................................................................................................................ 202
15.2.1 Directly Printing a Live Image by Capturing ........................................................................... 202
15.2.2 Printing a Saved Image..........................................................................................................203
15.3 Changing Print Settings....................................................................................................................... 204
15.3.1 Enabling or Disabling Printing with Frame ............................................................................. 204
15.3.2 Selecting Print Mode (Real 10 or Normal Mode).................................................................... 204
15.3.3 Setting Compensation (Only in Real 10 Mode) ...................................................................... 205
15.3.4 Calculating the Magnification When Printed........................................................................... 206
Connecting to Network..............................................................................................................207
16.1 Things You can Do with Network......................................................................................................... 207
16.2 Connecting to Network ........................................................................................................................ 208
16.2.1 Items to Check ....................................................................................................................... 208
(1) Network environment .................................................................................................... 208
(2) PC OS and web browser............................................................................................... 209
16.2.2 Configuring Network Settings................................................................................................. 210
16.2.3 Connecting to the Network......................................................................................................211
(1) Connecting to LAN via a network hub............................................................................211
(2) Directly connecting to PC without going through LAN................................................... 212
16.3 Obtaining Images by Web Browser ..................................................................................................... 213
16.3.1 Configuring PC and Web Browser ......................................................................................... 213
(1) Changing firewall settings ............................................................................................. 213
(2) Changing proxy server settings..................................................................................... 214
(3) Enabling Java applets ................................................................................................... 216
16.3.2 Operating Web Screen........................................................................................................... 219
(1) How to connect to the DS-L3 ........................................................................................ 220
(2) Operating [ROOM1] ...................................................................................................... 221
(3) Operating [ROOM2] ...................................................................................................... 225
16.4 Transferring Image to FTP Server ....................................................................................................... 227
16.4.1 Configuring FTP Server on a PC ........................................................................................... 227
(1) Windows 7 .................................................................................................................... 227
(2) Mac OS X...................................................................................................................... 230
16.4.2 Transferring Image to FTP Server.......................................................................................... 231
(1) Storing image to FTP server while being captured........................................................ 231
(2) Transferring stored image to FTP server....................................................................... 232
16.5 Obtaining Images from the PC Using the FTP Command ................................................................... 233
16.6 Operating from the PC with the Telnet Command ............................................................................... 234
Chapter
14
Chapter
15
Chapter
16

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Table of Contents
Part 7 Other Information
Differences in Operation Depending on DS Camera Head Models........................................236
17.1 DS-Fi2 ................................................................................................................................................. 237
17.2 DS-Fi1/DS-Fi1c ................................................................................................................................... 239
17.3 DS-Vi1 ................................................................................................................................................. 241
17.4 DS-Qi1Mc............................................................................................................................................ 243
17.5 DS-Ri1................................................................................................................................................. 246
Troubleshooting .........................................................................................................................249
18.1 Power Supply ...................................................................................................................................... 249
18.2 Image Output....................................................................................................................................... 249
18.3 Menu Operation................................................................................................................................... 250
18.4 View of Images .................................................................................................................................... 250
18.5 Saved Image Quality ........................................................................................................................... 252
18.6 Image Saving ...................................................................................................................................... 252
18.7 System Operation................................................................................................................................ 253
18.8 Network ............................................................................................................................................... 253
18.9 USB-related Operation ........................................................................................................................ 254
18.10 Printing ................................................................................................................................................ 254
18.11 Warning Message List ......................................................................................................................... 255
18.12 For Inquiries ........................................................................................................................................ 257
Capturing from External I/O Devices........................................................................................258
19.1 Functions of the EXT I/O Connector.................................................................................................... 258
19.2 Specifications of External I/O Devices ................................................................................................. 259
Daily Maintenance......................................................................................................................260
20.1 Cleaning Utensils and Consumables................................................................................................... 260
20.2 Cleaning the DS-L3 Main Body ........................................................................................................... 260
20.3 Cleaning the DS-Camera Head........................................................................................................... 260
20.4 Cleaning Optical Devices .................................................................................................................... 260
20.5 Storage ................................................................................................................................................ 261
20.6 Periodic Inspections (Charged) ........................................................................................................... 261
Major Specifications ..................................................................................................................262
21.1 DS Camera Control Unit DS-L3........................................................................................................... 262
21.2 DS Camera Head ................................................................................................................................ 267
21.3 AC Adapter .......................................................................................................................................... 269
21.4 Others.................................................................................................................................................. 270
Chapter
17
Chapter
18
Chapter
19
Chapter
20
Chapter
21

Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
xi
Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
Although this product is designed and manufactured to be completely safe during use, incorrect usage or failure to follow the
safety instructions provided may cause personal injury or property damage. To ensure correct usage, read this manual
carefully before using the product. Do not discard this manual and keep it at hand for future reference.
WARNING and CAUTION Symbols Used in This Manual
Safety instructions in this manual are marked with the following symbols to make them stand out. For your safety, always
follow the instructions marked with these symbols.
Symbol Description
DANGER Disregarding instructions marked with this symbol will lead to serious injury or death.
CAUTION Disregarding instructions marked with this symbol may lead to injury or property damage.
WARNING
1. Purpose of this product
The principal use of this product is to photograph and display pictures.
2. Read this manual carefully.
For your safety, read carefully this manual and other manuals supplied with the products that will be used
together with this product. Be sure to read and observe the warnings and cautions described at the beginning of
each manual.
3. Do not disassemble, repair, or modify this product.
Do not attempt to disassemble, repair, or modify this product. Doing so may result in electric shock or failure. Any
failure or damage caused by such action will not be covered under warranty. Never attempt to disassemble,
repair, and modify any part of this product which is not described in this manual. If you notice any problems with
this product, contact your nearest Nikon representative.
Note especially that the DS-L3 AC adapter has a built-in high-voltage power source. Do never dismantle, repair,
or modify it.
4. If the inside of this product is exposed due to breakage, never touch the exposed area.
If this product is broken due to falling, etc. and the inside is exposed, do not touch the exposed area. Doing so
may cause an electric shock or personal injury on the jagged broken edge. Remove the battery or power cord
and ask your nearest Nikon representatives for repair.
5. Always use a specified, 100 to 240 VAC (frequency of 50 to 60 Hz) power supply.
Use only the power supply specified in this manual. Failure to do so may cause electric shock or fire.
6. Use the specified power cords.
Make sure to use the specified power cord for the DS-L3 AC adapter. If any other power cords are used, it may
cause malfunction or overheating of this product or fire.
•For details about the specified power cords, see “Chapter 21 Major Specifications”.
•When plugging or unplugging the power cord, make sure that the product is switched off to avoid
electrification.
•Because this equipment falls under the category of electric shock protection class I, always make sure it is
grounded to a protective ground terminal.

Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
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Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
WARNING
7. Use the specified AC adapter.
Be sure to use this product with the specified AC adapter. If any other AC adapter is connected, it may cause
malfunction or overheating of this product or fire.
•For details about the specified AC adapter, see “Chapter 21 Major Specifications”.
•Place the AC adapter in a well-ventilated location. Do not place anything such as paper on the AC adapter. It
will reduce cooling and cause overheating.
•Before connecting the AC adapter, be sure to turn off the power supply of the DS-L3 DS Camera Control Unit
without fail to prevent failure or malfunction.
•When turning off the DS-L3, check that green light for the POWER indicator is out before unplugging the AC
adapter from the product or power cord from the AC power socket.
8. Use the nearest AC socket whenever possible
When DS-L3 is connected to a PC, use an AC power socket as close as possible to that for the PC. Using a
distant AC socket may cause malfunction due to voltage potential difference caused by the difference in electric
conditions such as voltage.
9. Do not allow this product to become wet.
Do not allow this product to become wet. It may cause malfunction, overheating, or electric shock. If this product
becomes wet, immediately switch off DS-L3, unplug the power cord, and contact the point where you purchased
the product.
10. Do not allow any foreign material to enter this product.
Do not allow foreign material to enter the inside of this product. It may cause malfunction. If any foreign material
enters inside, stop using this product and contact your nearest Nikon representatives.
11. Never use this product in a flammable or combustible environment.
Using it in a combustible gas or dust environment may cause an explosion or fire.
12. Do not encumber the heat dissipation of the device
•Do not cover the vent of DS-L3. Doing so will raise the temperature inside the product causing malfunction or
fire.
•Do not place an object on DS-L3 or DS Camera Head, or cover them with an object. Doing so will encumber
heat dissipation and raise the temperature inside the product causing malfunction or fire.
13. Handling cables
Do not bend a cable excessively or twist it. Doing so will break the cable causing malfunction or fire.
14. Precautions for handling flammable solvent
This product uses the following flammable solvents.
•Absolute alcohol (ethyl or methyl alcohol): for cleaning the touch panel monitor.
Never put these solvents close to fire. Before using the solvent, read carefully the precautions specified by the
manufacturer of the solvent to use it safely. When you use the solvent on this product, observe the following
precautions.
•Never put the solvent close to this product when you turn on/off the power switch or plug in/out the power cord.
•Handle the solvent with care not to spill it.
15. Disposal of this product
This product has a built-in fluorescent lamp that contains mercury. When you dispose it, ask a specialized
company to handle it as special industrial waste, or dispose it yourself observing the regulations of your region.
Do not dispose it as household waste.

Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
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Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
CAUTION
1. Handle this product with care.
To avoid failure, be careful not to give the device an impact or strong vibration.
2. Precautions against electromagnetic interference
This product generates weak electromagnetic waves. Do not place the product close to a precision electric
device. Doing so may affect the accuracy of the device. Place a radio or television some distance away from this
product if the reception is affected.
3. Cautions on handling of the touch panel LCD monitor
•Do not hit or press the surface of the monitor strongly. The surface of the monitor is glass; it may break and
injure you.
•Use a stylus for touch panel operation. Do never use a ballpoint pen or other hard or sharp objects. Doing so
will make a scratch on the screen and cause malfunction. Use your finger if a stylus is not available. Do not let
your nail contact the screen if you do so.
•Do not expose the touch panel monitor to direct sunlight or strong ultraviolet. Doing so may degrade its display
characteristics.
4. Handling a DS cooled camera head
A DS cooled camera head has a built-in mechanism for cooling the image pickup device. This makes it easier to
run with condensation compared with other ordinary electric devices when exposed to a rapid temperature
change or left in a high-humidity environment for a long time.
Take special care about the environment when using the product for a long time. After a long period of its use,
leave it idle at least several hours before switching it on again.
5. Do not orient the image pickup device to the sun or a high-power laser beam
Do not orient the photographing section of the DS camera head directly to the sun or a high-power laser beam.
An excessive exposure to the light may cause browning and burn-in of the image pickup device, leading to
malfunction.
6. Cautions on installation, assembling, connection, and maintenance
•When you do installation, assembling, connection, or cleaning, make sure that DS-L3 is switched off and the
power cord plug is pulled off from the AC socket in order to avoid electrification, fire, and other accidents.
•In installation and assembling, be careful not to have your fingers or hands caught.
•When you attach the DS camera head to a microscope or other optical instruments, make sure that the device
body and cables do not interfere with the moving part of the optical device.
7. Attaching a commercially available arm or mount
You can remove the stand arm unit at the back of DS-L3 and use the attachment hole to attach DS-L3 to a
commercially available arm conforming to VESA 75 mm or to a stand or a mount conforming to UL1678.
Do not fix DS-L3 directly to a wall with the attachment hole at its back. Use an arm, stand, or mount whose
maximum sustainable weight is at least 1.4 kg, and set DS-L3 at least 10 cm away from the wall or other objects.

Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
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Safety Precautions (Be sure to read the following before use)
CAUTION
8. Precautions for installation/usage environment and storage environment
This product is a precision optical device. Using or storing it under improper environment may result in a failure o
r
degraded precision. When using or storing this product, observe the following conditions.
•Installation/Usage environment
Use this product in a location where the temperature is from 0 to +40°C and a relative humidity is 60% or less
(no condensation).
•Storage environment
Choose a location where the temperature is from -20 to +60°C and a relative humidity is 90% or less (no
condensation).
•Avoid high-temperature, high-humidity locations for installing and storing it.
•Do not place and use this product in a closed space such as a locker or a cabinet.
•Install this product so that there is at least 10 cm of clearance around this product.
•Install this product in a location that is free of dirt and dust.
•Install this product in a vibration-free area.
•Place this product in a place which allows easy removal of power cord from the AC inlet of the AC adapter in
the event of an emergency.
•For safety's sake, unplug the power cord from the AC socket when you do not use DS-L3 for a long time.
•During storage, place a cover over this product to avoid dust.
•For details about the usage and storage environments for this product, see “Chapter 21 Major Specifications”.

Chapter 1 Before Use
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Please Read
First
Part 1
Please Read First
This part explains what the user should know in advance about DS-L3 operation.
Those who use DS-L3 for the first time should read this part. Also refer to this part whenever you want to confirm basic
operations during installation and connection of DS-L3, or during actual operation of DS-L3.
This part consists of the following chapters:
•Chapter 1 Before Use
•Chapter 2 Names of Parts and Their Functions
•Chapter 3 Installation and Connection
•Chapter 4 Preparing for Use
•Chapter 5 Working with Touch Panel

Chapter 1 Before Use
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Please
Read First
1
Before Use
This chapter lets you confirm the DS-L3 accessories and explains which DS camera heads and peripheral devices can be
connected to DS-L3.
1.1 Confirmation of Accessories
The following items should be contained in the packing box. Please make sure that you have everything.
If any items are missing, contact your nearest Nikon representative immediately.
No. Item No. Item
1
DS-L3 DS Camera Control Unit
5
Stylus (with a holder)
2
Instruction manual (This manual, Quick Reference,
Microscope Operation instruction manual)
DS-L3
6
DS camera cable
(DS Camera I/F cable 20-26; 3.0 m)
3
AC adapter
7
DS Camera Head with C mount cap
4
Power cord
8
C mount adapter (optional)
Before Use
1
Chapter

Chapter 1 Before Use
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First
1.2 DS Camera Heads That Can Be Controlled from DS-L3
The six DS camera heads listed below can be connected DS-L3.
DS camera heads have different characteristics depending on the model. Please check the model name of your DS camera
head before using it.
Features of DS camera head models
DS camera head
model name Image pickup device Cooling Pixel-shifting function Body color
DS-Fi2 2/3-inch, color, 5.24-megapixel - - White
DS-Fi1 2/3-inch, color, 5.24-megapixel - - White
DS-Vi1 1/1.8-inch, color, 2.11-megapixel - - White
DS-Qi1Mc 2/3-inch, monochrome 1.5-megapixel Equipped - Black
DS-Fi1c 2/3-inch, color, 5.24-megapixel Equipped - Black
DS-Ri1 2/3-inch, color, 1.5-megapixel Equipped Equipped Black
Note: Refer to “Chapter 21 Major Specifications” for DS camera head specifications.
Pixel-shifting function
Pixel-shifting is a function that realizes, through a PC application, photographing with a resolution higher than what
is expected for the pixel count of an image pickup device.
Illustrations in this manual
The illustration of DS camera head examples that appear in this manual is that of DS-Fi2.
The model name of a DS
camera head is found near
the tripod mount.

Chapter 1 Before Use
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Please
Read First
1.3 Peripheral Devices That Can Be Used
The following peripheral devices (sold separately) can be used for DS-L3.
(1) External monitor
DS-L3 has an 8.4-inch built-in touch-panel LCD monitor of 1024 x 768 pixels (XGA). You can also view images on an external
monitor if you want to view them on a larger screen or a screen of a higher resolution (SXGA: 1280 x 1024 pixels).
For an external monitor, use a PC monitor that supports one of the signal specifications shown below.
Standard name Resolution Vertical synchronization
frequency Interlace
SXGA 1280 x 1024 60 Hz Non-interlaced
XGA 1024 x 768 60 Hz Non-interlaced
DS-L3 has a DVI-I connector for video output to a digital monitor (DVI 1.0) or an analog RGB monitor. Use a DVI cable for
connection to a digital monitor, and use a DVI cable for analog connection to connect to an analog RGB monitor.
Note: It is recommended to use the SXGA digital monitor to ensure the high resolution performance.
Connection cables
When you purchase a DVI cable, we recommend selecting a cable length of 3 meters or shorter to prevent quality
deterioration due to the noise generated from peripheral equipment.
(2) C mount lens
A C mount lens is used when photographing a subject other than those for microscope. Any lens that satisfies the following
conditions may be used:
•Protrudes no more than 10 mm from the mount surface into the camera. (5 mm or less for DS-Ri1)
•The image circle of DS-Fi2, DS-Fi1, DS-Fi1c, DS-Qi1Mc, and DS-Ri1 is 2/3”, and that of DS-Vi1 is 1/1.8”. Use a lens for 1”
or 2/3”.
•When using diaphragm settings brighter than F2.8, you may observe slight light falloff around the periphery.
(3) CF (Compact Flash) card
Commercially available CF cards can be used as image storage media. Use a CF card of Type I.
Please use a model whose operation is verified by Nikon. Not every CF card is compatible with the DS-L3.
(4) USB memory
USB memory sticks can be used for image storage media.
Please use a model whose operation is verified by Nikon. Not every USB memory is compatible with the DS-L3.