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The practice microscope is a precision instrument, and careful set-up and routine maintenance are required to get the best out of the investment. Most modern microscopes are designed to be simple to operate, whereas older, research standard instruments, while capable of producing quality images, demand more effort if the best is to be achieved. In this article, the set-up of a modern compound microscope will be discussed, including the adjustments required for Köhler illumination; important if photomicroscopy is intended. In the second section of the article, basic care of the microscope will be discussed, including cleaning and routine maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A good-quality microscope is an essential part of the equipment of a veterinary general practice. It is a precision instrument and needs to be treated as such but, with care, can last for many years. There has never been so much choice in the number of microscope models available but choose carefully, as it is true that you get what you pay for. There are a number of options available that can improve the performance of the instrument and make its use more comfortable for the operator. This article, the first in a three-part series, will provide advice on choosing a practice microscope. The second and third articles in this series will cover routine microscope set-up and maintainece, and digital photography through the practice microscope [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]