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Explaining the world to children – with the Breukhoven BMS 76420 entry-level/students’ microscope for around € 160.

It doesn’t take much to stimulate the interest of children in microscopy: a cheap, easy to operate microscope, some exciting specimens and a patient adult. It is also very simple to attach a digital camera (SLR, system or USB camera) to discuss specimens in groups such as school classes.

Breukhoven students microscope stereomicroscope

A good example of a suitable microscope is the Breukhoven BMS 76420 – a stereo microscope in the lower price category (approx. € 160) which, however, has good optical qualities. The build quality is satisfactory and it even offers two different magnifications (20x and 40x). Anyone needing more variability and a stronger optical performance (200x lens) should consider the Euromex Novex Zoom RZ, which is available for around € 800.

childrens microscope stereoscope beam path

Transmitted light and incident light are available for illumination purposes.

microscope transmitted light for photography

The specimen stage has enough room for smaller objects (in this image a bee’s leg), but to view larger specimens, the stand column would need to be slightly longer.

Breukhoven entry-level microscope stage

The external diameter of the eyepiece differs somewhat from the standard measurement (30 mm). One eyepiece can be removed:

Breukhoven entry level microscope eyepieces

This makes it possible to attach a camera, so as to show the children the specimens on a monitor or even a projector screen. Especially during lessons, this is a very convenient feature, since all students will be able to see the specimens irrespective of whether there is a microscope available for them or not.

eyepieceadapter eyepiece camera for Breukhoven microscope
USB eyepiece camera for Breukhoven

In the first image we have attached a Canon EOS 650D to the microscope using an LM DSLRCT digital adapter and a TUST30.5S.

The second image shows the adapter solution for a USB camera (sensor size: 2/3”). For this, an LM RelayLens07T and a TUST30.5S are required.

We have taken a few sample images with the Breukhoven BMS and a Canon EOS 650D:

Leaf veins:

Childrens microscope demo image Leaf veins

Computer chip, circuit board or strip conductors:

 computer chip unter a childrens microscope

Eyes of a dead spider:

nature photography with entry-level microscope       

Differences to higher priced microscopes:

Conclusion:

Considering the price, the optical characteristics of the Breukhoven BMS 76240 are more than adequate. Thanks to its ease of use (only two magnifications) it is especially well suited for children. The instrument is certainly an option for primary school students. The magnifications are sufficient to show the children exciting details of interesting specimens.

19.09.2013

 

New LM Digital Adapter for: Nikon Z9 / Nikon Z8 / Sony Alpha 7R V / Sony Alpha 1 / Sony FX3 Cinema Line / Sony Alpha 9 II (ILCE-9M2) / Sony Alpha 9 / Nikon D6 / Canon EOS R3 / Canon EOS R6 Mark II / Canon EOS R8 / Sony Alpha 7R IV / Canon EOS R5 / Sony Alpha 7S II / Sony Alpha 7S III / Sony Alpha 7R III / Canon EOS R6 / Nikon Z6 / Nikon Z6II / Sony Alpha 7R II / Nikon Z7 / Nikon Z7II / Canon EOS R / Canon EOS Ra (Astro) / Nikon Z5 / Sony Alpha 7C / Canon EOS RP / Sony Alpha 7S / Canon EOS R7 / Leica SL2-S / Canon EOS R10 /