User Manual : Si-Through-HR Microscope
1 Disclaimer
Read this document before you install, configure, operate, or maintain this product. Users are required to familiarize themselves with installation instructions in addition to requirements of all applicable codes, laws, and standards. Activities including installation, adjustments, putting into service, use, assembly, disassembly, and maintenance are required to be carried out by qualified personnel in accordance with applicable codes of practice. If the product is installed or used in a manner not specified by Jay Photonics, the warranties provided with the product may be impaired.
All information in this user’s manual is current and accurate at the time of the latest update (August 26, 2024). Jay Photonics reserves the right to make changes at any time so that our policy of continual product improvement may be carried out. Therefore, all specifications are subject to change without notice. This user manual includes descriptions and explanations of optional as well as standard equipment. As a result, you may find material in this user manual that does not apply to your specific product.
2 Introducing the SI-Through-HR
The Si-Through-HR microscope from Jay Photonics is a simple “plug and play” device designed for ease of use in a variety of environments.
This tabletop microscope is equipped with a USB camera that can be connected to most software, both open-source and proprietary, without any restrictions on third-party cameras.
The Si-Through-HR is optimized for the inspection of silicon chips, providing high-resolution imaging through infrared light.
3 Setup
Setting up the Si-Through-HR microscope is straightforward and requires minimal effort. The microscope is designed to be ready for use shortly after unboxing.
Watch Unboxing Video
3.1 Components Included in the Box
- Si-Through-HR Microscope
- USB camera
- Power adapter
- Microscope calibration slide with 10 µm divisions
- Four microscope objectives 4X, 10X, 40X, 100X oil
- Oil container for 100X objective
- 1.25-inch diameter attenuation filter
- Microscope dust cover
- Quick guide
4 Software
5 Microscope Optimization
5.1 To get the best performance from your Si-Through-HR microscope, follow these steps:
- After connecting the camera to your computer and the microscope to a power source, press the power button (0/1) on the microscope and make sure the light intensity dial is set to maximum.
- Select the USB camera in the software.
- Place the included microscope calibration slide (with 10 µm divisions) on the sample stage.
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Optimizing luminosity and focus: In the software, manually set both the exposure time and the gain to their minimum settings. Then, manually lower the condenser (the lens under the sample stage) vertically to reduce the light intensity *. It can sometimes be difficult to find the focus. A tip is to first use a high magnification objective (40X to 100X) and position the microscope slide very close to the objective, then approximately position the 10 µm calibration divisions (or another object to be imaged) under the objective. Next, switch to a low magnification objective (4X or 10X). Now, by slightly moving the sample stage horizontally (in X and Y), the divisions of the calibration slide should become visible, though they may be blurry. Then, finely adjust the sample stage vertically to achieve focus.
- Place your silicon chip and refocus. Note that when changing objectives, you will need to finely adjust vertically to refocus.
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Resolution Optimization: With the 40X or 100X objectives (and with the iris under the condenser fully open), vertically adjust the condenser so that the light intensity is at its maximum. This maximizes high numerical aperture (NA) of the light captured by the objective. However, at an optimal vertical position of the condenser, the LED may also be imaged and slightly appear in the image produced on the camera. The condenser should be slightly moved from this position. At lower magnifications (4X and 10X), the condenser needs to be moved away so that the image is fully illuminated, avoiding darkening at the edges of the image. Note that the contrast can be enhanced by reducing the iris diameter, but this will result in lower resolution.
- Image Optimization: Without resorting to complex digital methods, the image of silicon circuits can be improved by minimizing the gain, slightly increasing the contrast, and decreasing the gamma; these are three parameters usually present in software.
Caution: Don't forget to turn off the microscope after use. The infrared light source, invisible to the naked eye, can easily go unnoticed, increasing the risk of the microscope being accidentally left on.
5.2 Using the 100X Oil Immersion Objective
- Apply oil to the tip of the 100X objective, not to the sample (this prevents air bubbles). To do this, unscrew the objective and place it upside down on a flat surface. Place a single drop of oil (using the included oil container) on the tip of the objective, as shown in Fig. 1.
- Make sure to lower the sample stage before replacing the 100X oil immersion objective to avoid spreading oil to unwanted areas.
- Once the 100X objective is in place, raise the sample stage to focus; the oil will then fill the space between the objective and the sample. Note that if the sample is small or lightweight, it should be properly secured; otherwise, it may stick to the objective, making inspection impossible. A simple method is to tape the edges of the sample onto a slide using adhesive tape.
Caution: Be sure to clean the 100X oil immersion objective after use. Residual oil is the primary cause of decreased image quality. A simple corner of a clean cloth or a Q-tip moistened with isopropanol is sufficient for proper cleaning. Then quickly wipe with another clean, dry corner of the cloth or a Q-tip. The key is to ensure there is no residue left by checking the lens with a magnifying glass and light reflection.
Fig. 1: Apply a small drop of oil to the 100X objective.
Fig. 2: After use, thoroughly clean the tip of the objective and check the lens reflections with a magnifying glass to ensure there is no dirt.
*. To compensate for light losses, mainly due to 30% reflections at each air-silicon interface, the infrared light source is quite powerful. Without silicon chips under the objective, the light will likely saturate the camera. If necessary, to further reduce brightness (or to allow imaging with a longer exposure time), a 1.25-inch diameter filter included with the microscope can be inserted under the condenser. The LED intensity dial on the right of the microscope can also reduce brightness but may cause flickering if set too low. Additionally, the iris diameter under the condenser can be reduced, though this tends to decrease resolution and increase the depth of field of the image. Note that the software's auto-exposure settings often do not function well when the camera is saturated with light.
6 Maintenance
Proper maintenance of the Si-Through-HR microscope is essential for ensuring its longevity and continued high performance. Regular cleaning and inspection will help maintain the quality of your imaging.
6.1 Periodic Inspection and Maintenance
It is recommended to perform periodic inspections of the microscope’s components, especially the optical elements. Ensure that the lenses and objectives are free from dust and debris, and verify that all mechanical parts are functioning smoothly.
6.2 Cleaning the Instrument
After each use of the 100X oil immersion objective, it is crucial to thoroughly clean the objective to prevent oil residue from degrading image quality. Use a cloth or Q-tip moistened with isopropanol to clean the objective, and then wipe it with a clean, dry cloth or Q-tip. Verify that no residue remains by checking the lens with a magnifying glass and light reflection.
If any other objective or optical component is dirty, use the same method to clean and inspect them.
6.3 Troubleshooting
In the event of any issues with the Si-Through-HR microscope, such as image quality problems or difficulties with software integration, please refer to this troubleshooting section for guidance. Common issues may include:
- USB Camera Not Recognized: Ensure the camera is securely connected to the computer and that all necessary drivers are installed.
- Poor Image Quality: Check that the lenses and objectives are clean and free of debris. Verify that the microscope is properly focused and that the software settings, such as exposure and gain, are correctly adjusted.
- Software Compatibility Issues: Ensure that your software is up-to-date and compatible with third-party cameras. If you need a software suggestion, please visit our dedicated software page for more information.
If these steps do not resolve the issue, further support is available. Please contact Jay Photonics customer service for additional assistance.
7 Cybersecurity
Note: This product does not require an Internet connection for operation. It only needs to be connected to a computer running appropriate software.
It is your responsibility to ensure that the computer to which the microscope is connected is secure and protected against any kind of security breaches. Ensure that your computer's software, operating system, and any connected devices are up-to-date with the latest security patches. Jay Photonics is not liable for damages and/or losses related to security breaches on the connected computer or network.
8 Patent
The technology used in the Si-Through-HR microscope is patent pending. All rights related to this technology are reserved. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of this product or its technology is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action. For more information regarding the patent status, please contact Jay Photonics.
9 Safety Information
The following pages provide important safety precautions. Please read this user manual carefully and thoroughly before installing, using, or maintaining the instrument.
9.1 Symbol Definitions
Here are some examples commonly used in the industry from recognized standards. You can use those related to your product.
This user manual uses the following symbols to bring attention to key technical and safety-related information.
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Indicates a hazardous situation. When this symbol is encountered on the product, refer to the documentation for important safety information. |
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Indicates the presence of electrical energy at voltages high enough to inflict harm on living organisms. (Potential electrical shock hazard.) |
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Indicates the presence of direct current. |
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Indicates that the main switch is ON. |
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Indicates that the main switch is OFF. |
9.2 Intended Use
Using the Si-through-HR in a manner that does not fall within the scope of its intended use, disregarding this user manual, using under-qualified personnel, or making unauthorized alterations, releases the manufacturer from any liability for any resulting damage. Also, if the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, it may impair the protection provided by the equipment.
9.3 Handling Safety
The Si-Through-HR microscope is designed to be easily transported by one person. However, it is important to handle the microscope with care due to its precision components.
Always use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury, even when handling lighter objects. Ensure that the microscope is securely held and avoid any sudden movements that could cause damage to the device or personal injury.
9.4 Electrical Safety
Ensure all cables are securely connected before powering on the microscope. Keep the equipment dry and avoid exposure to water or other liquids during operation.
Only use the provided power adapter.
10 End of life Disposal
Product or parts of the product should be handled and disposed of in accordance with federal, state, regional, and local laws. Use the appropriate take-back systems whenever possible.
Parts of used processing kits should be handled and disposed of in accordance with federal, state, regional, and local laws for biohazard disposal. Use the appropriate take-back systems whenever possible.
Do not put the product, parts of the product or processing kit products in unsorted municipal waste.
11 Technical Specifications
11.1 Electrical Specifications
11.2 Mechanical
| Dimensions (L × W ×H) | 210 × 200 × 360 mm (8.27 × 7.87 × 14.17 in) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.63 kg (8 lbs) |
11.3 Environmental
For indoor use in a lab environment.
| Storage Temperature | –40 °C to 70 °C (–40 °F to 158 °F) |
|---|---|
| Operating Temperature | –10 °C to 55 °C (–58 °F to 131 °F) |
| Humidity | less than 99% rH, non-condensing |
11.4 Technical specifications
| Microscope type | Infrared brightfield |
|---|---|
| Optical System | Finite-conjugate |
| Tube Length | 160 mm |
| Camera | Jay Photonics patent pending infrared technology |
| Spatial resolution | Sub-micron - limited by the microscope objective NA |
| Objective Lenses | DIN standard |
| Objective magnifications | 4X, 10X, 40X, 100X oil |
| Objective Parfocal Distance | 45 mm |
| Objective Mounting Thread | RMS 20.32 mm |
| Objective Turret | quadruple |
| Focusing System | coaxial coarse and fine focus |
| Focus Range | 10mm |
| Stage | two-layer with caliper |
| Stage Dimensions | 125mm x 115mm |
| Stage X-Y Travel Range | 70mm x 20mm |
| Transmitted Illumination | Jay Photonics patent pending infrared technology |
| Condenser | Abbe condenser with iris diaphragm, NA 0.9 |
| Sub-stage Condenser-holder | Rack-and-pinion |
| Filter holder | Yes, under the condenser, for 1.25 inch standard filters. A neutral density filter is included. |
12 Limited Warranty
For limited warranty, please refer to the general terms and conditions of Jay Photonics or any specific terms of the proposal, quotation, or agreement when you purchase the product.
13 Contact Information
For questions regarding the operation of this product, please contact Jay Photonics:
Jay Photonics
Email : info@jayphotonics.com
Adress: 633 ave des Oblats, Quebec, Quebec, Canada, G1N 1W1
Telephone: 514-560-7966