Kern inverted fluorescence microscope OCM 165, trinocular, infinity optics, objectives 10x to 40x, PH 20x

The Kern OCM 165 is an inverted fluorescence microscope for observing cell cultures and tissue cultures. The trinocular tube, featuring a Siedentopf design, is inclined at 45 degrees and can be rotated through 360 degrees; the optical system operates on the infinity principle with Infinity Plan-grade objectives.

Optics and magnification

The five-position revolver is fitted as standard with 10x, 20x and 40x objectives, as well as a PH 20x phase-contrast objective. With the 10x eyepiece and a 22-millimetre field of view, this results in a total magnification of 100x to 400x with the standard objectives; a 4x and a 2x objective are available as accessories. The interpupillary distance can be adjusted between 48 and 76 millimetres, whilst the dioptre adjustment operates on both sides from -5 to +5. Focusing is achieved via a coaxial coarse and fine adjustment mechanism; the fine adjustment has a minimum resolution of 0.002 millimetres.

Transmitted light and fluorescence

For transmitted light observation, the OCM 165 features a continuously adjustable 30-watt halogen illuminator. An Osram 100-watt HBO-Epi fluorescence unit with a mercury vapour lamp is also fitted as standard, complete with filter sliders for blue and green excitation. The permanently mounted Abbe condenser has a numerical aperture of 0.3, an aperture diaphragm and a working distance of 72 millimetres.

Phase contrast and stage

The standard scope of delivery already includes a PH-20x objective for phase contrast, along with a phase contrast slider. The mechanical stage has a specimen holder with a diameter of 110 millimetres. According to Kern, the microscope is suitable for samples in culture flasks, Petri dishes and microtitre plates; suitable holders are available as accessories for culture dishes measuring 35, 54 and 65 millimetres.

Camera connection and power supply

The trinocular tube has a camera output. A C-mount adapter is required for a C-mount camera (1x OBB-A1514 or 0.5x OBB-A1515), available separately. According to the operating instructions, switching to the camera output redirects the light path; simultaneous observation via the eyepiece and the camera is not possible. The integrated power supply operates at 100 to 240 volts and is connected with an IEC mains cable.

Typical applications

Kern describes the OCM 165 as a microscope for observing translucent, thin and low-contrast samples in culture vessels such as bottles, Petri dishes or microtitre plates.

• Observation and analysis of cell cultures and tissue cultures
• Work with living mammalian cells and tissue cultures
• Fluorescence microscopy on cell and tissue cultures, such as immunofluorescence
• Research involving translucent, low-contrast specimens

Regulatory information

As an electrical device, the microscope falls under the ElektroG. The manufacturer Kern & Sohn GmbH is registered under the WEEE registration number DE 80821200. How to return old appliances is described on the page Environment and disposal.

Frequently asked questions about the OCM 165

Does the microscope have a camera port?

Yes, the trinocular tube has a camera output. A C-mount adapter is required for a C-mount camera; this is available separately. When switching to the camera, the light path is redirected; the eyepiece and camera cannot be used simultaneously.

How is the microscope illuminated?

Transmitted light via a continuously adjustable 30-watt halogen lamp, plus an Osram 100-watt HBO fluorescence unit as standard, with a filter slider for blue and green excitation.

Which objectives are supplied as standard?

10x, 20x and 40x, as well as a PH 20x phase-contrast objective, all of Infinity Plan quality.

How long is the warranty?

According to Kern & Sohn, this device comes with a 3-year warranty. Kern grants 3 years on products with a list price of €500 or more and 2 years on products below that and on components; wear parts such as batteries and rechargeable batteries are excluded. Warranty repairs are carried out by Kern or by a Kern dealer.

Technical details

Scope of delivery

• OCM 165 inverted fluorescence microscope (base unit with trinocular tube)
• Mechanical stage with specimen holder (diameter 110 mm)
• Standard objectives: 10x, 20x, 40x, PH 20x
• 2 HWF 10x / 22 mm eyepieces
• Osram 100 W HBO fluorescence unit with blue/green filter slider
• Phase contrast slider
• Dust cover
• Operating instructions

The scope of delivery does not include a C-mount adapter for connecting a microscope camera, and it must be ordered separately (1x OBB-A1514 or 0.5x OBB-A1515).

Individual requirements and procurement service

For the OCM 165, the following items are available, amongst others: C-mount camera adaptors, microscope cameras with various resolutions, additional Infinity Plan and Infinity-PH-Plan objectives, holders for culture dishes in 65, 54 and 35 millimetres, colour filters for transmitted light (e.g. grey), a replacement halogen lamp and cleaning accessories. Enquiries about these and other accessory requests relating to Kern microscopes are handled through our procurement service.