If you’ve ever wished your Nikon TS100 microscope could go beyond brightfield and phase contrast, adding a fluorescence lamphouse may be exactly what you’re looking for. In a recent video, we walk through how to add a fluorescence lamphouse to a Nikon TS100, opening the door to epi-fluorescence imaging and expanded lab capabilities.
This upgrade is ideal for research, clinical, and teaching labs that want more versatility from a trusted inverted microscope platform.
Why Add Fluorescence to the Nikon TS100?
The Nikon TS100 is a dependable inverted microscope commonly used for transmitted-light applications. What many users don’t realize is that it was designed to be modular and upgradeable, including the ability to add a fluorescence illumination system.
By adding a fluorescence lamphouse, you can visualize fluorescently labeled samples that are invisible under standard brightfield illumination. This dramatically expands what the TS100 can be used for without replacing the entire microscope.
Understanding the Key Components
Before installing a fluorescence lamphouse, it helps to understand the main parts involved:
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Fluorescence lamphouse – provides the high-intensity excitation light needed for fluorescence imaging
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Filter cube turret – holds excitation and emission filter cubes matched to specific fluorophores
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Lamp power supply – powers the fluorescence lamp and allows controlled operation
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Collector optics – directs the excitation light properly through the optical path
Knowing how these components work together makes the installation process much smoother.
Step-by-Step: Adding the Fluorescence Lamphouse
In the video, Chad Potts walks through the process in a clear, hands-on way. Below is a practical overview of what’s involved.
1. Power Down and Prepare the Microscope
Always start by turning the microscope off and unplugging it. If the microscope has been in use, allow time for the illumination system to cool before working on it.
2. Remove the Existing Brightfield Lamp Housing
The TS100’s standard halogen lamp housing is removed to make room for the fluorescence lamphouse. This step is straightforward but should be done carefully to avoid damaging connectors or optics.
3. Mount the Fluorescence Lamphouse
The fluorescence lamphouse is positioned and secured onto the microscope’s illumination port. Proper alignment is critical to ensure that excitation light travels cleanly through the optical path.
4. Connect the Power Supply
Fluorescence lamphouses typically use a dedicated power supply. Once mounted, the lamphouse is connected to its power source and control unit, making sure cables are routed safely and securely.
5. Install the Fluorescence Filter Cubes
Filter cubes are installed into the turret based on the fluorophores you plan to use. Matching the correct filters is essential for strong signal and clean images.
6. Power On and Test the System
Once everything is installed, the system is powered on and checked to confirm that excitation light is reaching the sample evenly. Minor adjustments can be made to optimize illumination and performance.
Helpful Tips and Best Practices
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Handle with care: Fluorescence lamps generate significant heat. Always allow them to cool before handling.
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Match filters correctly: Using the wrong filter cube will severely limit image quality or prevent signal detection altogether.
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Consider LED options: Many users choose to replace traditional mercury systems with LED illumination for longer life and lower maintenance.
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Keep optics clean: Dust, fingerprints, and debris can drastically reduce fluorescence performance.
Built for Expansion
One of the strengths of the Nikon TS100 is how adaptable it is. Adding a fluorescence lamphouse transforms it from a basic inverted microscope into a much more powerful imaging tool—without unnecessary complexity.
With the right setup and understanding, this upgrade can be done confidently and safely.
Watch the Full Walk-Through Video
▶️ How to Add a Fluorescence Lamphouse to a Nikon TS100 Microscope
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtGodhxSa3E