Scientists, most especially biologists generally use microscopes for studying and observing an assortment of organisms which thrive in their natural habitat.  Some organisms require to be observed instantly, right on the spot, where the use of the standard microscope can not be possible because of its size, composition and weight.  Therefore, the portable field microscope was created.

Users of portable field microscopes are forensic scientists whereby the need to carry around a microscope to crime scenes are essential, physicians who require to get instant scrutiny at certain kinds of samples like skin scrapings in order to search for indications of diseased or damaged cells, geologists who examine clays, rocks and soils and biologists investigating fungi, leaves, and organic materials found in lakes, rivers and streams.

Portable field microscope makes it easy to conscientiously and precisely examine different field samples instantly. While portable, these instruments are robust and may be used inside the laboratory as well, as they yield results close to those attained by standard microscopes.

Because a lot of factors contributing to the effective and normal function of portable field microscopes, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the following:

Availability

Portable field microscopes generally are offered in magnifications of “400X and 200X” which uses white LED light for what is termed as “coaxial illumination.”

All microscopes employ light sources to have a clearer picture or view of objects being examined.  In the case of Portable field microscopes, light is constructed into its ocular axis thus, it appears on the tip of the microscope’s objective lens then reaches the ferrule (metal protective cap) at exactly ninety degrees towards the “endface”. This kind of illumination creates an advanced resolution level which results to less specimen contamination.

Resolution

Resolution will enable you to view 2 objects exactly as 2 objects. Meaning, when viewing a specimen, no matter how minute it is, you can identify the specimen easily without it becoming blurry.

Focus

Most microscopes have and utilize the condenser diaphragm in order to outline the “depth of field” or the specimen being focused. Portable field microscopes usually come with focusing condensers which allows easy admission of light for a clearer focus.
Magnification

Remember that magnification and resolution must go together always as one can not function well without the help of the other.
In achieving excellent magnification, eyepieces magnification must be multiplied towards the objectives magnification. Thus, when viewing through a “10X eyepiece” and having a “10X objective”, the result would be 100X object magnification.

There are individuals however, that use higher eyepiece magnification so to achieve excellent specimen view.  It is important to note that object resolutions will not be enhanced by higher magnification of the eyepiece.

Take a look at these portable field microscope reviews to help you decide on the one that is perfect for your needs:

1)    “Handy Field Microscope”

Totally lightweight, portable and strong, it’s the perfect instrument to bring with you to the fields. Its compact size, durable metal structure and simple design, is ideal for almost all weather conditions! The “Handy Field Microscope” can yield from 40x to 100x images which are illuminated by a prism, already built-in the microscope design. Best of all, this microscope uses no gears, so it’s very easy to maintain.

Key features include:

•    10x “Huygenian” eyepiece
•    all glass coated optics
•    size: 25cm
•    all metal body construction
•    Light-gathering “Lucite prismto focus ambient light”

2)    The Carson MicroMax Portable Microscope

This has a powerful magnification of 60x to 100x that is portable and lightweight, it can easily fit in your pocket! The light system is built in which provides a clear and bright image plus viewing is made more comfortable with its rubberized eyepiece.

3)    Trekker field microscope

Trekker field microscope is intended to be used in natural lighting but also includes LED light for examining opaque objects or specimens.

This type of field microscope has focus range reaching to 15mm from its stage which is very useful for examining irregularly shaped objects like insects.

Key features include:

•    magnification of “3.5x Objective”
•    10x Removable eyepiece, can be cleaned easily
•    weight: ½ pounds
•    compact (thickness:25mm, diameter:105mm)
•    can survive a 3 foot drop
•    splash proof
•    has two slides - 1 blank slide and 1 “prepared locust wing”
•    has a “magnetic specimen retainer” which prevents any specimen from moving.
•    soft, padded carrying case

4)    The Evolution Microscope

Developed and constructed in Japan, The Evolution Microscope has all metal parts, a sturdy die cast body and padded carrying case that will withstand the harshness of the outdoors.

Key features include:

•    monocular head
•    “widefield W 10x” eyepiece
•    triple nosepiece objectives with working distance of 4x to 40x
•    illuminator with condenser
•    open stage base with clips
•    single precision focusing adjustment
•    weight:1.46kg including cover

The availability of portable field microscopes today will indeed allow more people, not just the professionals to observe the beauty and the many interesting facts nature has to offer. More on this topic