Body Attachments and Extensions for DIY Cerna® Systems

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Figure G1.1  User-Built Cerna System with Trans-Illumination Using Fixed Arms

• Optical Ports for 7.74" Throat Depth of DIY Cerna Systems
• CSA1001: Internal SM1 (1.035"-40) Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for 30 mm Cage System
• CSA1002: Internal SM2 (2.035"-40) Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for 60 mm Cage System
• 95 mm Dovetail Clamp on Back Connects to Microscope Body

When installed on a Cerna microscope body, our Fixed Arms are designed to position an optical apparatus 7.74" away from the edge of the vertical rail. Designed to provide structural support for user-built optical paths, each has a 95 mm dovetail clamp on the back that can be secured anywhere along the microscope body's linear dovetail surface by tightening two 4 mm hex setscrews.

These fixed arms are offered in three versions. The CSA1001 arm has internal SM1 (1.035"-40) through threads for Ø1" lens tubes and four 4-40 through taps for 30 mm cage systems, while the CSA1002 arm has internal SM2 (2.035"-40) through threads for Ø2" lens tubes and four 4-40 through taps for 60 mm cage systems. Figure G1.1 uses one of each to support a home-built trans-illumination apparatus.

In order to provide additional mounting configurations, the 95 mm dovetail clamp can be separated from the plate that contains the optical port by removing four 3/32" hex cap screws. This 0.50" thick plate can be attached to the 1.00" thick clamp such that the surface of the plate is in the same plane as either the top or the bottom of the clamp. This flexibility permits the fixed arm to be mounted in whatever manner makes the most efficient use of space, while keeping the dovetail clamp's securing setscrews on the same side of the microscope body. Locating dowel pins that ensure proper alignment between the plate and the dovetail are included.

For applications that would benefit from motorized translation, please consider the CSA2100 Nosepiece (sold below).

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Click for Details

Figure G2.1  When using the ZFM1020 module, the surface of the arm will be flush with the bottom (or top) of the module. When using the ZFM1030 module, the bottom surface of the arm will be at the middle of the module.

• Manually Translate Home-Designed Optical Systems Along the Microscope Body's Optical Axis
• Manual Translation Modules
  • 1" of Travel Along Optical Axis
  • 95 mm Dovetail Clamp on Back Connects to Microscope Body
  • Include Six M4 Cap Screws for Attaching an Arm
  • Translation Stage Adjusted Using Focusing Knobs
• Arms that Attach to a Manual Translation Module
  • CSA2100: Internal SM2 (2.035"-40) Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for 60 mm Cage System
  • CSN100: Internal M32 x 0.75 Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for 60 mm
    Cage System
  • CSNK100: Internal M32 x 0.75 Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for 60 mm Cage System, Magnetic Removable Objective Mount
  • CSA1500: Blank Arm with Alignment Mark for Custom Machining

Our manual translation modules and arms permit Ø2" lens tubes, 60 mm cage systems, optics, and custom assemblies to be mounted at the 7.74" throat depth of a DIY Cerna system and translated along the optical axis over a 1" range.

Manual Translation Modules
Our Manual Focusing Modules consist of a 95 mm dovetail clamp that connects to the microscope body, a manual translation stage, and a mounting bracket that connects to an arm. We offer two versions of these manual focusing modules to allow the user to choose whichever module makes the most efficient use of space. As shown in Figure G2.1, an arm that is mounted to the ZFM1020 Focusing Module will have one surface in the same plane as the edge of the module. This module can be secured to the microscope with the holder facing up or down. By comparison, an arm that is mounted to the ZFM1030 Focusing Module will have one surface in the plane that bisects the module, which is 1.5" away from the module's edge.

For applications requiring high-precision translation of arms along the optical axis, we recommend using the motorized translating modules below.

Arms
When installed on a manual translation module, these arms are designed to position an optical port 7.74" away from the edge of the vertical rail. The CSA2100 arm has internal SM2 (2.035"-40) through threads for Ø2" lens tubes and four 4-40 through taps for 60 mm cage systems. The CSN100 nosepiece has internal M32 x 0.75 threads and four 4-40 through taps for 60 mm cage systems. The CSNK100 kinematic nosepiece includes a CSNK10 magnetic removable objective mount with internal M32 x 0.75 threads. Both the mounting arm and removable objective mount of the CSNK100 nosepiece have four 4-40 through taps for 60 mm cage systems. This allows the user to build a cage section off of the arm and have a removable section mounted on the CSNK10 objective mount. Additional mounts can be purchased separately. We also offer microscope thread adapters to convert M32 x 0.75 threads to other industry-standard objective threads. For alternate thread and mounting options, the CSA1500 blank arm features a center mark to align custom machining with the optical path. Custom machining can be done on your own or you can contact Tech Sales to request a specific thread.

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• Translate Home-Designed Optical Systems Along the Microscope Body's Optical Axis
• Motorized Module (Operated by MCM301, Sold Separately)
  • 1" of Fine Travel Along Optical Axis
  • 95 mm Dovetail Clamp on Back Connects to Microscope Body
  • Angle Brackets Available for Attaching an Arm
• Arms that Attach to Angle Brackets for the Motorized Module 
  
  • CSA2100: Internal SM2 (2.035"-40) Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for 60 mm Cage System
  • CSN100: Internal M32 x 0.75 Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for 60 mm Cage System
  • CSNK100: Internal M32 x 0.75 Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for 60 mm Cage System, Magnetic Removable Objective Mount
  • CSA1500: Blank Arm with Alignment Mark for Custom Machining

Our motorized module, angle brackets, and arms permit Ø2" lens tubes, 60 mm cage systems, optics, and custom assemblies to be mounted at the 7.74" throat depth of a DIY Cerna system and translated along the optical axis over a 1" range.

Motorized Module and Angle Brackets
Our PLSZ Motorized Focusing Module consists of a 95 mm dovetail clamp that connects to the microscope body and a motorized translation stage that connects to our angle brackets (sold separately) for mounting an arm. The PLSZ1 and PLSZ2 angle brackets are designed for edge-mounted and middle-mounted arms, respectively. A permanently attached 6' (1.8 m) cable connects the module to our MCM301 3-Axis Controller (sold separately below).

The PLSZ1 and PLSZ2 angle brackets are designed for edge-mounted and middle-mounted arms, respectively. Each bracket has four holes for 4-40 screws, allowing it to connect with the PLSZ module, and six M4 tapped holes that are spaced to mate with the M4 counterbores on an arm. Included with each bracket are four 4-40 cap screws, six M4 x 0.7 cap screws, and a 3/32" (2.5 mm) hex key. For alignment, the PLSZ1 and PLSZ2 also include four or two Ø0.12" (Ø3.0 mm) dowel pins, respectively. When an arm is connected to the PLSZ with one of these angle brackets, its optical port will be aligned at the 7.74" throat depth of the DIY Cerna system.

The PLSZ1 and PLSZ2 angle brackets can be mounted to the PLSZ module in either of two orientations, and the PLSZ module can be mounted on the microscope body in either of two orientations. This provides numerous mounting options for the arm that allows the user to make the most efficient use of space. As shown Figure G3.4, an arm that is mounted to the PLSZ1 angle bracket will have one surface in the same plane as the edge of the module. In comparison, an arm that is mounted to the PLSZ2 angle bracket will have one surface in the plane that bisects the module, which is 1.5" away from the module's edge. When selecting an angle bracket and positioning the stage on the microscope body, it is important to consider the clearance needed for the stage to be able to travel its full range of motion and the desired spacing between adjacent components in the optical path. For cases where the final position of the arm needs to be as close as possible to either end of the rail or another adjacent component in the optical path, we recommend using the PLSZ1 bracket to mount the arm at the top or bottom edge of the stage.

Our PLST(/M) top plate can also be mounted to the PLSZ module, expanding the versatility of the stage well beyond microscopy and providing options for custom mounting needs. The PLST(/M) top plate offers an array of 1/4"-20 (M6) and 8-32 (M4) holes on 1" (25.0 mm) centers and is compatible with our LNR25D(/M) and LNR25M(/M) manual linear translation stages, allowing for the construction of multi-axis systems with motorized Z control. In addition, the top plate includes a 3" dovetail feature compatible with our XR series 3" dovetail stages and accessories, providing another means of constructing multi-axis systems but without the need for additional hardware. 

Arms
When installed on a motorized module and angle bracket, these arms are designed to position an optical port 7.74" away from the edge of the vertical rail. The CSA2100 arm has internal SM2 (2.035"-40) through threads for Ø2" lens tubes and four 4-40 through taps for 60 mm cage systems. The CSN100 nosepiece has internal M32 x 0.75 threads and four 4-40 through taps for 60 mm cage systems. The CSNK100 kinematic nosepiece includes a CSNK10 magnetic removable objective mount with internal M32 x 0.75 threads. Both the mounting arm and removable objective mount of the CSNK100 nosepiece have four 4-40 through taps for 60 mm cage systems. This allows the user to build a cage section off of the arm and have a removable section mounted on the CSNK10 objective mount. Additional mounts can be purchased separately. We also offer microscope thread adapters to convert M32 x 0.75 threads to other industry-standard objective threads. For alternate thread and mounting options, the CSA1500 blank arm features a center mark to align custom machining with the optical path. Custom machining can be done on your own or you can contact Tech Support to request a specific thread.

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Figure G3.1  Six M4 cap screws are included with each angle bracket to connect with arms.

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Figure G3.2  The motorized module and angle bracket positions the optical port of the arm at a 7.74" throat depth. Here, the CSA2100 is shown mounted to the PLSZ1 angle bracket and connected to the PLSZ focusing module.

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Figure G3.3  The PLSZ module has two possible orientations, creating space along the optical path for mounted optomechanical assemblies.

Click for Details

Figure G3.4  When using the PLSZ1 angle bracket with the PLSZ module, the surface of the arm will be flush with the bottom (or top) of the module. When using the PLSZ2 angle bracket with the PLSZ module, the surface of the arm will be at the middle of the module.

Software

Version 1.2.1 (January 30, 2025)

The software package contains the installation files
for the GUI interface, driver, and SDK. The software was verified with Windows^® 10 (64-bit) and Windows^® 11 (64-bit).

• Designed for Cerna Components with Stepper Motors
• Provides Control for up to Three Channels
• Separately Available Three-Knob Joystick Allows Hand Operation
• Each Axis can be Individually Disabled to Prevent Unintended Movements or to Retain a Position
• Dial on Top of Three-Knob Joystick Adjusts Translation Speed

The MCM301 3-Axis Controller is designed for use with the Thorlabs components listed in Table 588A. The MCMK3 3-Knob Joystick, available separately, can be connected to provide hand-operation. The controller can also be operated remotely using standalone software.

Each side face of the optional MCMK3 joystick includes a rotating knob and a push-button switch that are dedicated to a single axis. The push-button switch on the joystick enables and disables the axis and is lit in green when the axis is enabled. Disabling the axis lets the user preserve a position or prevent accidental movements. A dial on the top face adjusts the velocity per rotation of the knobs. For more information on the MCMK3 joystick and how to utilize the USB HID protocol, please see the full web presentation.

Since each MCM301 controller has three channels, you only need to purchase enough channels for each of the modules you intend to drive. For example, a Cerna microscope equipped with a PLSZ Motorized Focusing Module (which has one axis) and a PLSXY Translation Stage (two axes) would only require one MCM301 controller.

For more information, as well as compatible software and a LabVIEW™/C++/Python SDK, please see the full web presentation for the MCM301 controller.

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Figure G5.2  XT95P12 Rail Plate with T-Nuts Inserted in 95 mm Rail Channels

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Figure G5.1  XT95RC1 Drop-On Rail Carriage Attached to a 95 mm Optical Rail

• Provide Arrays of Mounting Holes for Creating DIY Microscope Modules
• Positioned by Sliding Along the Microscope Body Rail
• Drop-On Rail Carriages: Insert and Remove Anywhere Along the Vertical Rail
• XT95P12(/M) Rail Plate: Insert at Rail End and Slide Along Rail

These mounting platforms can be used to mount home-built microscope modules to the 95 mm dovetail on a Cerna microscope body. Each platform includes a matrix of mounting holes for compatibility with our extensive selection of optomechanics.

The Drop-On Rail Carriages can clamp to the side of a 95 mm rail by tightening the side-located 1/4"-20 (M6) locking screws. When the locking screw is loosened, the assisted opening mechanism pushes the hinged clamping arm out and provides ample clearance for the dovetail of a 95 mm rail. This allows the carriage to be inserted and removed anywhere along an exposed rail side. Furthermore, while the carriage is clamped onto a rail, the locking screw can be loosened slightly, allowing the carriage to slide along the rail edge and be repositioned in another location.

In comparison, the XT95P12(/M) Rail Plate includes a closely packed array of seventeen 1/4"-20 (M6) tapped holes and four 1/4" (M6) counterbores. Tightening the four included 1/4"-20 (M6) cap screws locks the rail plate in place. As shown in Figure G5.2, these cap screws are attached to two T-Nuts that fit into the channels on the 95 mm dovetail. Because accessing these channels on a DIY Cerna microscope body requires the end of the rail to be available, the top plate of the body must be detached in order to install and remove this plate. We therefore only recommend this rail plate for microscope bodies without epi-illumination arms. It is difficult to reinstall and realign an epi-illumination arm that has an optical setup on it.

If using a rail carriage and rail plate in the same setup, please note that the distance between the mounting surface and the top of the rail will not be the same, as shown in this photo.

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Figure 497B  CSA3000 Used to Mount a Custom Epi-Illuminator and Widefield Viewing Apparatus with a sCMOS Camera

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Figure 497A  CSA3010 Used to Mount a Custom Epi-Illuminator and Widefield Viewing Apparatus with a sCMOS Camera

• Male D1N Dovetail on Bottom for Attachment to DIY Cerna Microscope Bodies
• Available in Two Sizes in Imperial and Metric Versions:
  • Imperial: 14.00" x 11.00" or 18.00" x 4.60"
  • Metric: 350.0 mm x 275.0 mm or 450.0 mm x 116.8 mm
• 1/4"-20 or M6 x 1.0 Mounting Holes

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Figure 497C  Each breadboard has a male D1N dovetail on the bottom.

These black-anodized aluminum breadboard tops support user-designed widefield viewing apparatuses, epi-illumination pathways, and laser scanning pathways on top of upright Cerna microscopes. Each contains a Ø1.5" (Ø38.1 mm) through hole that is centered on a male D1N dovetail. This dovetail allows the breadboard to be connected directly to the epi-illumination arm of the microscope body, and it can also be used to stack the breadboard on top of an epi-illumination module. Additional details on the dovetail are available in the Microscope Dovetails tab.

The breadboards are available in two sizes. The larger version [Item # CSA3000(/M)] provides additional work surface, but protrudes past the sides of the epi-illumination arm, which may restrict approach angles around the objective for micromanipulators. The smaller version [Item # CSA3010(/M)] does not restrict approach angles and also has eight 4-40 taps around the Ø1.5" through hole for 30 mm and 60 mm cage systems.

In configurations where the breadboard is mounted directly on top of the epi-illumination arm, four M4 counterbores can be used to provide additional mounting stability.

Item #	CSA3000	CSA3000/M	CSA3010	CSA3010/M
Dimensions (L x W)	14.00" x 11.00"	350.0 mm x 275.0 mm	18.00" x 4.60"	450.0 mm x 116.8 mm
Breadboard Thickness	1/2"	12.7 mm	1/2"	12.7 mm
Hole Size and Spacing	1/4"-20 Tapped Holes on 1" Centers	M6 x 1.0 Tapped Holes on 25 mm Centers	1/4"-20 Tapped Holes on 1" Centers	M6 x 1.0 Tapped Holes on 25 mm Centers
Number of Tapped Holes	153	153	87	89
Cage System Compatibility	Four 4-40 Taps for 30 mm Cage Systems Four 4-40 Taps for 60 mm Cage Systems
Click for Mechanical Drawing
Dovetail	Male D1N
Material	Matte Black Anodized Aluminum

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View Imperial Product List

Item #	Qty	Description
Items on Microscope Body
CEA1400	1	Cerna Microscope Body with Epi-Illumination Arm, 400 mm Rail
PLSZ	1	Motorized Module with 1" Travel, 95 mm Dovetail
PLSZ1	1	Angle Bracket for Edge-Mounted Arms
CSA1200	1	Mounting Arm for CSN1201 and CSN1202 Nosepieces
CSN1202	1	Nosepiece for 2 Objectives, M25 x 0.75 Threads
MCM301	1	Three-Channel Stepper Motor Controller for Cerna Components
Items on Bottom Optical Path
OPX2400	1	Breadboard Top with Slider, 1/4"-20 Taps, Male & Female D1N Dovetails
PFR14-P02	1	35 mm x 52 mm Protected Silver Mirror
LCP34	3	60 mm Cage Plate, SM2 Threads, 0.5" Thick, 8-32 Tap (Two SM2RR Retaining Rings Included)
LA1401	2	N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø2", f = 60 mm, Uncoated
LA1301	1	N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø2", f = 250 mm, Uncoated
LCP50D	1	60 mm Cage System Iris Diaphragm (Ø2.0 - Ø50.0 mm)
LCFW5A	1	60 mm Cage Filter Wheel for Five Ø2" (Ø50.8 mm) Filters, Imperial
NE2R03B	1	Unmounted Ø2" Absorptive ND Filter, Optical Density: 0.3
NE2R13B	1	Unmounted Ø2" Absorptive ND Filter, Optical Density: 1.3
SLSLLG1	1	Liquid Light Guide Adapter for Broadband Light Sources, 185 nm - 2.1 µm
TRP057	2	Ø0.47" Pedestal Pillar Post, 8-32 Setscrew, 1/4"-20 Tap, L = 0.568"
MSC2	2	Clamping Fork for Ø12 mm Pedestal Posts, 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screw
ER8-P4	1	Cage Assembly Rod, 8" Long, Ø6 mm, 4 Pack
ER4-P4	1	Cage Assembly Rod, 4" Long, Ø6 mm, 4 Pack
Items on Top Optical Path
WFA2002	1	Epi-Illuminator Module for 1 Cube, Male & Female D1N Dovetails
TLV-U-MF2	1	Microscopy Cube Assembly for Olympus AX, BX2, and IX2 Microscopes
DMLP490R	1	25 mm x 36 mm Longpass Dichroic Mirror, 490 nm Cut-On
CP02F	2	SM1-Threaded 30 mm Flexure Cage Plate, 0.35" Thick, 2 Retaining Rings, Imperial
LA1172-A	1	N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø1", f = 400 mm, AR Coating: 350 - 700 nm
LA1461-A	1	N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø1", f = 250 mm, AR Coating: 350 - 700 nm
CP36	1	30 mm Cage Plate, Ø1.2" Double Bore for SM1 and C-Mount Lens Tubes
M455L4	1	455 nm, 1150 mW (Min) Mounted LED, 1000 mA
LAURE1	1	Cerna Trinoculars with 10X Eyepieces, Upright Image, IR Filter
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View Metric Product List

Item #	Qty	Description
Items on Microscope Body
CEA1400	1	Cerna Microscope Body with Epi-Illumination Arm, 400 mm Rail
PLSZ	1	Motorized Module with 1" Travel, 95 mm Dovetail
PLSZ1	1	Angle Bracket for Edge-Mounted Arms
CSA1200	1	Mounting Arm for CSN1201 and CSN1202 Nosepieces
CSN1202	1	Nosepiece for 2 Objectives, M25 x 0.75 Threads
MCM301	1	Three-Channel Stepper Motor Controller for Cerna Components
Items on Bottom Optical Path
OPX2400/M	1	Breadboard Top with Slider, M6 x 1.0 Taps, Male & Female D1N Dovetails
PFR14-P02	1	35 mm x 52 mm Protected Silver Mirror
LCP34/M	3	60 mm Cage Plate, SM2 Threads, 0.5" Thick, M4 Tap (Two SM2RR Retaining Rings Included)
LA1401	2	N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø2", f = 60 mm, Uncoated
LA1301	1	N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø2", f = 250 mm, Uncoated
LCP50D	1	60 mm Cage System Iris Diaphragm (Ø2.0 - Ø50.0 mm)
LCFW5A/M	1	60 mm Cage Filter Wheel for Five Ø2" (Ø50.8 mm) Filters, Metric
NE2R03B	1	Unmounted Ø2" Absorptive ND Filter, Optical Density: 0.3
NE2R13B	1	Unmounted Ø2" Absorptive ND Filter, Optical Density: 1.3
SLSLLG1	1	Liquid Light Guide Adapter for Broadband Light Sources, 185 nm - 2.1 µm
TRP14/M	2	Ø12 mm Pedestal Pillar Post, M4 Setscrew, M6 Tap, L = 14.4 mm
MSC2	2	Clamping Fork for Ø12 mm Pedestal Posts, 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screw
ER8-P4	1	Cage Assembly Rod, 8" Long, Ø6 mm, 4 Pack
ER4-P4	1	Cage Assembly Rod, 4" Long, Ø6 mm, 4 Pack
Items on Top Optical Path
WFA2002	1	Epi-Illuminator Module for 1 Cube, Male & Female D1N Dovetails
TLV-U-MF2	1	Microscopy Cube Assembly for Olympus AX, BX2, and IX2 Microscopes
DMLP490R	1	25 mm x 36 mm Longpass Dichroic Mirror, 490 nm Cut-On
CP02F/M	2	SM1-Threaded 30 mm Flexure Cage Plate, 0.35" Thick, 2 Retaining Rings, Metric
LA1172-A	1	N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø1", f = 400 mm, AR Coating: 350 - 700 nm
LA1461-A	1	N-BK7 Plano-Convex Lens, Ø1", f = 250 mm, AR Coating: 350 - 700 nm
CP36	1	30 mm Cage Plate, Ø1.2" Double Bore for SM1 and C-Mount Lens Tubes
M455L4	1	455 nm, 1150 mW (Min) Mounted LED, 1000 mA
LAURE1	1	Cerna Trinoculars with 10X Eyepieces, Upright Image, IR Filter
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Figure 580A  Here, a white-light illumination path has been connected to the OPX2400 using our 60 mm cage system, and a GFP fluorescence path has been mounted on top of the OPX2400 via our WFA2002 epi-illuminator module.

• Two-Position Slider to Combine or Switch Between DIY Optical Paths
• Slider has Internal SM2 Threads and Holds One 35 mm x 52 mm x 3 mm Optic
• Back Port has Internal SM2 Threads and Four 4-40 Taps for Our 60 mm Cage System
• Imperial and Metric Versions
  • OPX2400: 10.16" x 3.94" Breadboard with Double-Density 1/4"-20 Tapped Holes
  • OPX2400/M: 258 mm x 100 mm Breadboard with Double-Density M6 x 1.0 Tapped Holes
• Stackable Design with Female and Male D1N Dovetails on Top and Bottom, Respectively

Click to Enlarge

Figure 580B  (a) Slider Located Above Objective
(b) Slider Not in Optical Path with Objective
The lid of the slider housing is opened by removing four cap screws with a 3 mm balldriver. The slider and the slider housing are internally SM2-threaded. Two stainless steel tracks and detents provide repeatable positioning.

The OPX2400(/M) Breadboard Top with Two-Position Slider adds a manually operated optic slider to the epi-illumination arm of a Cerna microscope body. By mounting a dichroic, beamsplitter, or mirror into the slider, users may combine or switch between widefield viewing, epi-illumination, and/or laser scanning pathways.

The optic slider has a clear aperture of Ø1.65" (Ø41.9 mm) and uses a leaf spring to retain a rectangular optic (minimum size: 34.9 mm x 51.9 mm x 2.8 mm; maximum size: 35.0 mm x 52.0 mm x 3.2 mm); the large aperture and optic size make this ideal for applications requiring large area scanning. It has internal SM2 (2.035"-40) threads that face the back of the stationary housing, allowing a tube lens to be installed at a fixed distance from the dichroic. The back of the housing also has internal SM2 threads, as well as four 4-40 taps spaced for our 60 mm cage system.

In addition, a breadboard with sixty-eight 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0) through-tapped holes in a double-density hole pattern is included to support a home-built optical path. More 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0) tapped holes (sixteen on the imperial version and eighteen on the metric version) are located on the sides of the breadboard. Measured from the top of the breadboard, the beam height is 50.0 mm. Thorlabs manufactures Ø12 mm pedestal posts that center many of our 30 mm and 60 mm cage plates at this beam height, as illustrated in this photo, which provide structural support for large or heavy setups.

Thorlabs offers a 750 nm shortpass dichroic (Item # DMSP750B) and a protected silver mirror (Item # PFR14-P02) as stocked items. Beamsplitters and dichroics at additional cutoff wavelengths are available by contacting Tech Support. Once the optic is mounted, a 5/64" (2 mm) hex balldriver can be used to fine tune the optic slider's pitch and yaw adjusters. The slider may be locked in either position by tightening the included locking screw with a 3/32" balldriver. In Figure 580A, the locking screw is installed in the forward position.

In laser scanning Cerna systems, we recommend attaching the tube lens using the internal SM2 threads on the slider, since this will maximize the distance available along the throat depth to mount the objective and, if desired, non-descanned detectors.

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Figure G8.2  The front of the module has a magnetic door cover that holds an MDFM-MF2 filter cube.


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Figure G8.4  This photo shows a home-built epi-illumination path mounted on the WFA2002 via a 30 mm cage system.

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Figure G8.1  The back of the WFA2002 module has internal SM1 threads and four 4-40 taps for our 30 mm cage system.

• Internal SM1 (1.035"-40) Threads, Four 4-40 Taps for 30 mm
  Cage Systems, and Female and Male D1N Dovetails
• Magnetic Door Cover Holds Filter Cube in Optical Path

The WFA2002 Epi-Illuminator Module holds one filter cube in the epi-illumination pathway of a DIY Cerna system. With a female D1N dovetail on top and a male D1N dovetail on the bottom, it is designed to mate with the epi-illumination arm of a Cerna microscope body, as well as with other epi-illuminator modules. Additional details on dovetails are available in the Microscope Dovetails tab.

As shown in Figure G8.1, its optical input port has internal SM1 (1.035"-40) threads and four 4-40 taps for our 30 mm cage system. These mechanical interfaces enable Thorlabs' extensive selection of SM1 and 30 mm cage components to be used to build custom epi-illumination paths.

The module includes a magnetically secured cover that can be connected to an MDFM-MF2 Filter Cube, manufactured by Olympus. Video G8.3 shows the filter cube installation procedure. Extra covers, which the user can attach to the filter cubes to speed up filter cube exchange, are sold as Item # WFA2001C. These filter cubes can be used to hold fluorescence filter sets, beamsplitters with crossed polarizers, or mirrors.

We also offer the WFA2001 Epi-Illuminator Module, which ships ready to accept an uncollimated light source with a Ø3 mm core liquid light guide or an SM1-coupled output.

Item #	SM2N2
Microscope Connection	Ø1.18" Eyepiece Tube (Alignment Slot, 5 Places)
SM Threading	Internal SM1 (1.035"-40) External SM2 (2.035"-40)
Cage Compatibility	30 mm Cage System (4-40 Tap, One Side, 4 Places)
Clear Aperture	Ø0.90" (22.9 mm)
Adapter Profile (Click for Drawing)

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Figure 635A  Two SM2N2 adapters attached to the trinocular eyepieces.

• Replace Trinocular Eyepiece for DIY Construction
• Compatible with SM1, SM2, and 30 mm Cage Construction Systems

The SM2N2 Eyepiece Adapter allows custom-built optical detection systems to attach to either eyepiece on the trinoculars of a Cerna Microscope. This adapter replaces the lens element on the eyepiece that sets the image plane at the the back of the eyes (see Figure 635A). Five alignment slots ensure the adapter fits snugly inside the eyepiece without rotation; because of the drop-in nature of this adapter, take care the attached system does not overbalance the 40 g eyepiece adapter when it is inside the trinoculars.

This adapter features internal SM1 (1.035"-40) threading for Ø1" lens tubes; two SM1RR retaining rings are included to secure an optic inside the adapter. The adapter also has external SM2 (2.035"-40) threading for Ø2" lens tubes. The face with the item # engraving has 4-40 tapped holes for 30 mm cage systems.

• Extend Versatility of Our Lens Tube and Cage Construction Systems to DIY Cerna Systems
• Compatible with DIY Cerna Modules that Have D1N, D2N, D2NB, D3N, D1T, D3T, or D5Y Dovetails

The items shown here represent our complete selection of dovetail adapters for Thorlabs' Cerna microscopy platform. They integrate the Cerna platform with our SM1 (1.035"-40) lens tube, SM30 (M30.5 x 0.5) lens tube, SM2 (2.035"-40) lens tube, 30 mm cage, and 60 mm cage construction systems, making them ideal for creating custom widefield viewing, epi-illumination, trans-illumination, and condenser mounting apparatuses. Additionally, the WFA4111 and SM2A59 adapters feature internal M38 x 0.5 and SM2 threads, respectively, that can directly accept one of our infinity-corrected tube lenses. We also offer the LCPN3 and LCPY3 trinocular port adapters, designed to allow Olympus trinoculars that have a male D5Y dovetail to be used with DIY Cerna systems. See Figures G10.1, G10.2, G10.3, and G10.4 and Table G10.5 for application ideas and the adapters' mechanical features.

The D1N, D2N, and D2NB dovetails are primarily used by our widefield viewing and epi-illumination accessories, while the D1T dovetail is used with our Cerna nosepiece accessories. The D3N is Thorlabs' designation for the dovetail used by the majority of Nikon condensers for upright microscopes, and the D3T dovetail is compatible with our CSE2100 epi-illuminator module. Lastly, the D5Y is Thorlabs' designation for the dovetail used by the majority of Olympus widefield viewing modules.

Application Ideas

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Figure G10.1  Here, our WFA4111 D1N Adapter is being used to support an SM2 lens tube that contains user-selected optics for forming an image on a Scientific Camera.

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Figure G10.2  In this photo, the CSA1003 D1N Adapter is connecting a 60 mm cage system to a WFA2002 Epi-Illuminator Module.

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Figure G10.3  In this setup, the SM2A56 D2N Adapter is connecting a Solis^® high-powered LED to the back of a CSE2100 epi-illuminator module.

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Figure G10.4  Our CSA2001 D3N Adapter is used by our CSA2000 Condenser Arm to hold a condenser to our CXY2A Translation Mount. This mount provides orthogonal XY adjusters for the condenser.

Table G10.5  Specifications
Item #	Dovetaila	Threading	Cage Compatibility	Clear Aperture	Adapter Profile (Click for Drawing)
LCPN2	Male D1N	Internal SM30b	30 mm Cage System (4-40 Tapc, 4 Places) 60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.10" (27.9 mm)
LCPN3	Male D1N Female D5Y	Internal SM30b	60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.10" (27.9 mm)
WFA4111	Male D1N	Internal M38 x 0.5d External SM2	Nonee	Ø1.47" (37.0 mm)
SM2A59	Male D1N	Internal SM2f	Nonee	Ø1.69" (43.0 mm)
LCPN4	Male D1N	Internal SM2g	60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.74" (44.3 mm)
CSA1003	Female D1N	None	60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.50" (38.1 mm)
SM1A58	Male D2N Male D2NB	Internal SM1f External SM2	30 mm Cage System (4-40 Tap, 4 Places)	Ø1.008" (25.6 mm)
LCPN6	Female D2N	Internal SM1f	30 mm Cage System (4-40 Tapc, 4 Places) 60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.01" (25.6 mm)
LCPN1	Male D3N	Internal SM30b	30 mm Cage System (4-40 Tapc, 4 Places) 60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.10" (27.9 mm)
LCPN5	Male D3N	Internal SM2g	60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.50" (38.1 mm)
CSA2001	Female D3N	External SM2	Nonee	Ø1.58" (40.0 mm)
CSN110	Male D1T	Internal M32 x 0.75	30 mm Cage System (4-40 Tapc, 4 Places) 60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.20" (30.5 mm)
SM2A56	Male D3T	External SM2	Nonee	Ø1.40" (35.6 mm)
LCPY3	Female D5Y	None	30 mm Cage System (4-40 Tapc, 4 Places) 60 mm Cage System (Ø6 mm Bore, 4 Places)	Ø1.26" (32.0 mm)

• Additional information on dovetails is available in the Microscope Dovetails tab.
• This internal SM30 threading is compatible with our SM30RR retaining rings. Two SM30RR retaining rings are included.
• These tapped holes are on the side opposite the dovetail only.
• This internal M38 x 0.5 threading is compatible with our SM38RR retaining rings.
• An SM2-threaded cage plate can be used to convert between SM2 lens tubes and 60 mm cage systems.
• This internal threading is not deep enough for mounting optics.
• This internal SM2 threading is compatible with our SM2RR retaining rings. One SM2RR retaining ring is included.