ABSTRACT
Commercial fluorescence microscope stands and fully automated XYZt fluorescence imaging systems are generally beyond the limited budgets available for teaching and outreach. We have addressed this problem by developing “Microscopi”, an accessible, affordable, DIY automated imaging system that is built from 3D printed and commodity off-the-shelf hardware, including electro-mechanical, computer and optical components. Our design features automated sample navigation and image capture with a simple web-based graphical user interface, accessible with a tablet or other mobile device. The light path can easily be switched between different imaging modalities. The open source Python-based control software allows the hardware to be driven as an integrated imaging system. Furthermore, the microscope is fully customisable, which also enhances its value as a learning tool. Here, we describe the basic design and demonstrate imaging performance for a range of easily sourced specimens.
Highlights
Portable, low cost, self-build from 3D printed and commodity components
Multimodal imaging: bright field, dark field, pseudo-phase and fluorescence
Automated XYZt imaging from a tablet or smartphone via a simple GUI
Wide ranging applications in teaching, outreach and fieldwork
Open source hardware and software design, allowing user modification
Competing Interest Statement
The authors have declared no competing interest.
Footnotes
This update includes revised URL's for online supplemental material supporting the assembly and use of Microscopi including revised 3D print designs and operating system code.