KERN OBT 106 School Microscope, monocular, 40x–400x, LED transmitted light, battery-powered

The ideal introduction to microscopy: the KERN OBT 106 for schools and training

The KERN OBT 106 is a high-quality school microscope that has been specially developed for modern biology lessons in primary and secondary schools, as well as for ambitious hobbyists. As part of the tried-and-tested OBT 1 series from KERN Optics, it combines intuitive operation with robust mechanics and optical performance that will inspire pupils’ lasting enthusiasm for the microcosm. Unlike simple toy microscopes, this is a fully-fledged optical instrument manufactured to the standards of professional laboratory microscopes, yet perfectly tailored in terms of function and ergonomics to the needs of beginners.

Brilliant optics for fascinating insights

At the heart of the KERN OBT 106 lies the achromatic optical system. Equipped with three high-quality objectives (4x, 10x and 40x) and a 10x wide-field eyepiece, the microscope covers a magnification range from 40x to 400x. This range is regarded as the ‘gold standard’ for school teaching. It enables detailed observation of classic specimens: from the structure of an onion skin cell to the leg hairs of a housefly, right through to the fascinating organisms found in pond water (paramecia, rotifers).

The 40x objective is spring-mounted (retractable). This is a crucial safety feature in school settings: should the stage be raised too high by accident, the spring-mounted front lens gives way. This effectively prevents damage to the expensive specimen or the front lens of the objective – a common problem with inexperienced users, which has been resolved through the design of this instrument.

Ergonomics and handling in the classroom

The OBT 106’s tube is monocular and tilted at an ergonomic viewing angle of 45°. This allows for a relaxed posture even during longer observation sessions. A particular advantage for group work: the microscope head can be rotated a full 360°. This means the microscope can simply be turned on the table to show the adjusted image to a neighbouring student or the teacher, without having to move the entire stand. This prevents the specimen from slipping and promotes collaborative learning.

Focusing is achieved via a coaxial drive on both sides for coarse and fine adjustment. This arrangement, in which the coarse and fine drives are aligned on a single axis, is intuitive to use and allows the focal plane to be located quickly, as well as enabling precise refocusing at high magnifications. The fixed stage (110 x 100 mm) is fitted with two robust specimen clamps that securely hold the slide in place.

Innovative LED illumination and portable use

A highlight of the KERN OBT 106 is its modern 1W LED illumination. Compared with conventional halogen lamps, LED technology offers significant advantages for school use: the light is bright white and colour-accurate, which makes it easier to identify cell structures. Furthermore, it generates almost no heat, meaning that living specimens (e.g. aquatic organisms) do not dry out or die.

The lighting is infinitely dimmable, allowing the brightness to be optimally adjusted to suit the specimen in question. Image quality is enhanced by a condenser (N.A. 0.65) fitted beneath the table, featuring a rotatable pinhole disc. Simply turning the disc significantly increases the contrast, which leads to a real ‘aha moment’, particularly with transparent or unstained specimens.

For maximum flexibility in the classroom or on field trips, the OBT 106 is equipped with rechargeable batteries. It can therefore be operated independently of the mains supply, thereby avoiding the risk of tripping over cables in the classroom.

Detailed technical specifications

• Optical system: Finite
• Tube: Monocular, 45° inclined, 360° rotatable
• Eyepiece: Wide-field WF 10x / Ø 18 mm (secured against removal)
• Objectives: Achromatic 4x, 10x, 40x (spring-loaded)
• Objective turret: 3-position, tilted forwards
• Magnification: 40x, 100x, 400x
• Focusing: Coaxial coarse and fine adjustment
• Stage: 110 x 100 mm with 2 specimen clamps
• Condenser: Fixed (N.A. 0.65) with pinhole disc for contrast enhancement
• Illumination: 1W LED (transmitted light), continuously dimmable
• Power supply: Mains adaptor + integrated rechargeable batteries (cordless operation possible)
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 195 x 147 x 325 mm
• Net weight: approx. 2.5 kg

Contents

• 1 x KERN OBT 106 microscope
• 1 x WF 10x eyepiece
• 3 x objectives (4x/10x/40x)
• 1 x dust cover
• 1 x power supply unit (including rechargeable batteries in the unit)
• 1 x user manual

Individual requirements & accessories

To make the most of this microscope’s potential, we recommend suitable accessories such as microscope slides, cover glasses or ready-to-use specimen sets to get you started straight away. Replacement bulbs and specialised cleaning kits for the optics are also available. Please contact our procurement service to discuss bespoke equipment for your classroom.