What Is a Stereo / Dissecting Microscope and How to Choose One?
Stereo/Dissecting Microscopes
Like most science tools on the market, multiple microscope designs have been developed in order to meet specific needs of scientists, researches and students. For example, student microscopes have been developed for young scientists who have a general use needs and stereo/dissecting microscopes have been developed for people that use microscopes for organic dissections and fine detail examinations. Stereo/dissecting microscopes are unique in that they offer two eye pieces and a larger slide platform. This platform was designed to allow you to insert a Petrie dish as opposed to just a narrow slide.
How to Select a Stereo/Dissecting Microscope
Stereo/Dissecting Microscopes - Which one is best for you? This is a great place to begin when thinking about purchasing a microscope. The first thing you need to do is to determine if this is the best option for you or your student. Stereo/dissecting microscopes are best suited to students in biology class that will be required to dissect frogs or plant materials. If you are studying microbiology a dissecting microscope can be a good option as well as you can always place your water or biological sample on the larger platform.
If you do need a stereo/dissecting microscope then you will next need to look at how durable the tool is. Some student microscopes are designed with a plastic body, while others are designed with a metal body. Metal models last longer and are more durable, however, the plastic models are less expensive. You need to balance the pros and cons related to cost and durability when making a purchase decision.
Another issue you need to think about when deciding which stereo/dissecting microscope to purchase is if the microscope offers any special features. For example, many dissecting microscopes now have a USB port that allows you to connect the microscope to your computer. This allows you to capture images of what you are examining. This is a huge advantage if you are working on science fair projects.