Troubleshooting Solutions
Step-by-step instructions to common support questions. For additional assistance contact our Technical Support Team.
Microscopes & Accessories
My light source is not working
- Test the power source
- Check to ensure that the light source switch is in the ON position
- Verify that the power cord to the microscope/light source is plugged into a working outlet
- If using a remote controlled outlet for the light source, test it by plugging another device into the outlet
- If the outlet is controlled by a light switch, confirm that it is in the ON position
- Ensure that the power cable is not visibly damaged and that it is securely connected at both the outlet and the power supply
- Test the light bulbs
- If the light source uses bulbs
- Ensure the bulb is properly installed and the pins are fully seated into their sockets
- If the pins are different sizes check that the correct one is placed into the appropriate hole
- Ensure the bulb is good by trying it in another light source (if available)
- Adjust the intensity control to the max/open position
- If the light source uses bulbs
- Test the cables & fuses
- If the light source has fuses check them and if either is blown replace both
- If the light source is an LED (mounted on the back of the microscope head), test the extension cable
- The connections are located under the microscope arm covers, call Tech Support if assistance is needed 1-800-861-3610
- Disconnect the extension cord from both the power supply and the LED
- Connect the power supply directly into the LED (you will need to move the microscope head close to the power supply)
- If this resolves the issue, call Tech Support to order a replacement cable— 1-800-861-3610
The light in my Novalux is dim after I replaced the bulb
- Ensure the bulb is seated correctly at a 30º angle to the face of the light source (NOT perpendicular)
- Ensure the rim of the bulb reflector is seated fully into the mating pocket
- Ensure the intensity control is set to OPEN; it may have been bumped during bulb installation
- Ensure that the fiber optic cable is not damaged
- Disconnect both ends
- Point one end at a light source
- Look at the fiber tips on the other end
- If black spots are visible in over 20% of the area, call Tech Support to order a new cable or upgrade to an LED light source – 1-800-861-3610
My microscope rises or falls when I let go
- Adjust the lift of the spring arm to counterbalance the weight of the extension arm/optics/accessories
- The counter balance adjustment is located on the bottom of the spring arm farthest from the user
- It will be either a black knob or the center of three set screws (use 3/16 hex wrench)
- If the microscope falls when released, turn the knob or wrench clockwise to balance
- If the microscope rises when released, turn the knob or wrench counterclockwise to balance
- If the knob or wrench has been turned clockwise until it stops and the microscope still falls, it may need a new gas piston. Call Tech Support to order a replacement and schedule an install – 1-800-861-3610
- Counterbalancing must be performed each time accessories are added or removed from the microscope
The camera image is not in focus when the image in the binoculars is in focus
- Check the parfocal settings
- Parfocalizing instructions can be found in both the Quick Start Guide and the Instruction Manual
- Key Points:
- Set the eyepiece diopter ring to zero
- Adjust the magnification to the highest setting
- Focus on a piece of paper with an X on it
- Without raising or lowering the microscope, change to the lowest magnification
- Close one eye and adjust the Diopter Ring to achieve sharpest focus, repeat this step for the opposite eye