(aSo I recently I decided to check out AmScope’s more base line compound microscope models. I had a friend that came to me requesting a simple yet professional level compound microscope to break him into the world of microscopy. He wanted to do a variety of health checks personally just to explore and learn more about the body, while still having the ability to teach his children (they homeschool) about the world invisible to the naked eye.
There were a few lower models, as I’ve reviewed before, but as an entry to an adult hobby, I suggested we check this T490B-3M package out. I wasn’t disappointed by the product itself (as usual with AmScope)! However, I did have to get a manual from their customer service team, as it didn’t come in the box. Stuff happens right? Anyway, I ended up getting a better one than was supposed to come in the box anyway, so no harm, no foul.
AmScope Compound Microscope Review “T490B-3M”
The compound microscope itself is great! It has all of the components I look for in a quality microscope–both coarse and fine focus, a fully mechanical stage (movement in X, Y, and Z available), and a swappable condenser. Bonus points for the condenser it came with being an Abbe condenser (1.25 NA) with iris.
I recommended the 40x – 2000x model (T490B) as they have enough different magnification powers to play with. They’re great to learn how everything works on the microscope. The microscope has a great image for the price even if the magnification above 1000x is empty magnification. This means it done with eyepieces, which doesn’t add image resolution, just enlarges the image.
The swappable condenser adds huge value too. Once the user gets used to viewing things in brightfield, d other types to expand the functionality of the unit. Darkfield and phase contrast are both available for the unit, even though the phase kits available cost more than the microscope itself. The ability to turn the T490B-3M an all in one unit for live cell viewing or blood work is invaluable.
The camera I’ve posted my praises about before as well, which is the MU503. It carries a solid frame rate on screen, but still enough resolution to capture quality images. Or if you run it on a PC, record video/take measurements. It’s a 20x device, so it will not have the same image in the camera as the 10x eyepieces. Using 20x eyepieces will give a similar image if you must have them work simultaneously.
Videos are available on YouTube to display the quality of the camera (just search up MU503 and you’ll find them). You’ll also find unboxing and setup of the microscope videos. The microscope and camera combo is a common setup that provides great results. Entry enthusiasts can enjoy the cost effectiveness of this setup. Professionals too can enjoy the quality of the unit without breaking the bank here. So if you’re on a budget and want to maintain an interest, this package is the way to go.
You can check it out for more information or information on placing an order from here if intersted in getting setup with one of the most popular compound microscopes on the new market today: T490B-3M
Let me know what you think of your unit, or if you have any questions feel free to ask away!
Your review on the T-490B didn’t mention that it is a Simul-Focal model, although according to Amazon that model is … Simul-focal Optical System
Most trinocular microscopes allow you to view either through the trinocular port or the eyepieces only, forcing you to switch between the two. Since these trinocular ports are not simul-focal with the rest of the microscope optical system, you have to re-focus the microscope after each switch. The T490B, however, erases this step by providing simul-focal viewing. Especially handy for teaching demonstrations, clinical examinations and laboratory applications, the simul-focal feature allows your students or colleagues to view clear images simultaneously while you work through the eyepieces … I am not looking to purchase a compound microscope but am curious , it also claims that the camera port stays in focus with the eyepieces! Unlike your review of the SM-4TPZ. Is there a special adapter that supports this claim but not available on the SM-4TPZ?
This port does adjust to a longer distance, but it’s still a touch out of focus with the eyepieces. I’ve contacted them before you double check that I wasn’t doing something wrong, and they always give me the same answer–“it’s a bit confusing the way it’s worded but it really means light to all ports primarily.” Most compounds do this already, so the adjustable port is what they mean by a simul-focal compound microscope.
Quite confusing! So, it still does not perfectly match the eyepieces, and never will. 10x eyepieces versus 20x camera.