What kind of Microscopes can I use with the DRX?
The DRX can be used with any standard Fluorescence microscope from Zeiss, Leica, Olympus,Nikon or Motic.
What ports can I use the DRX on to illuminate my microscope?
PTI provides adaptors for both EPI and Direct port on the microscope. Two varieties are available. One for coupling to an existing EPI fluorescence light train, thus retrofitting the existing Mercury Lamp housing and a second type for Microscopes with NO EPI- fluorescence light train installed.
What wavelength region can I cover with the Standard DRX?
The DRX covers any wavelength from 250 nm to 650 nm in increments of 0.5 nm step sizes. If your application requires different wavelengths we can also accommodate that, please contact your local representative for details.
What is the difference between the DRX and a standard scanning mono?
The optical principles of light diffraction are the same however the function of how the wavelengths shift is the main difference. Where traditional mono's use a worm drive to change the wavelengths and DRX uses a galvanometer for high speed wavelength selection.
How does the galvanometer work?
The galvanometer allows the DRX to directly drive a flat mirror at high speeds, which changes the angle of incident at which the light is directed towards the grating. This allows the wavelengths to change at high speeds.
So how fast is the DRX vs. a standard scanning mono?
With the following parameters being the same for both systems:
- Start at 250 nm and go to 450 nm in 1 nm steps and then back to 250 nm
- A standard mono would take 3.5 sec
- The DRX would take 0.2 sec
How many wavelengths can I really do in a second?
You can drive the DRX up to as many as 250 ratios' per second.
Why would I choose a tunable system over a filter wheel based system?
The simple fact is cost of ownership and flexibility. With a filter based system you only have the choice of up to 10 fixed wavelengths at a set band pass a reflective based system like the DRX allows the user to set any center wavelength at any band pass to optimize the current application as well as the future application. The cost of ownership is the fact that the DRX offers the customer a catalog of unlimited filter wavelengths and bandwidths. (Saving thousands of dollars)
Why do other companies offer a more powerful light source?
The amount of light gathered by the system is dependent on the spot size of the focused beam. If the spot size is greater than the entrance slit width, it is lost light. The ability to F match the light source to the diffraction portion of the system is the key to throughput. PTI uses a reflector to capture the light, maximize light collection and F match to the DRX. In fact the DRX's 75 watt source is more powerful than a 150 watt systems on the market.
What do the Bi-lateral Slits do for my applications?
Unlike filters, which have a set bandwidth, the DRX can adapt to your specific application needs with a continuous adjustment from 0 to 24 nm. This feature is key in utilizing the full dynamic range of ratiometric dyes.
How is the light delivered from the DRX to my microscope?
The light is collected from the DRX via a Liquid Light guide for maximum light delivery to the microscope.
Why would I use a Liquid light guide and not a fiber optic cable?
The DRX comes standard with a Liquid light guide due to the fact it delivers more than 30% more light than a fiber optic cable. A LLG is also more flexible than a fiber optic, where fibers can break if bent to far, a LLG is much more flexible with out compromising the throughput.
How long does the Lamp last?
Our standard lamp 1000 hours or more.
Can I replace the lamp myself?
Yes, PTI has a written manual and a movie on our web site that takes you step by step through the installation and alignment o the lamp.
Can I use the DRX to illuminate two microscopes?
Yes, you can have multiple microscope adaptors for the DRX allowing the DRX to be used for multiple microscopes in your lab.
Why does the DRX come with an automatic shutter?
The automatic shutter prevents photo bleaching, by automatically closing between experiments.
Why does the DRX come with different modes of operation?
(This feature allows for maximum application flexibility and optimization.)
- Hopping Mode
Hopping mode allows for the measurement of multiple dyes that are not in sequence such as 325 nm and 615 nm and then 455 nm and 525 nm in a user defined routine.
- Full Scan Mode
Scan mode example: allows the user to conduct excitation profile scans to insure the sample has been loaded/washed properly by it excitation profile.
- Quick Scan Mode
Allows the user to set different wavelengths in sequence at a rapid pace.
What software can I use with the DRX?
The DRX comes standard with a Labview vi that will allow full control of the DRX. (you do not need a version of Labview to run the DRX vi). The DRX can also be controlled by the following software packages:
- PTI's FeliX32™
- PTI’s Felix GX
- PTI's ImageMaster™
- PTI’s EasyRatioPro systems
- MediaCy
- QED Invivo
- UIC’s MetaMorph and MetaFluor
- uManager
- Nikon Elements
- And many more, check with your rep to find out all the options
Does the DRX come with its own power supply?
YES, the DRX comes with it own power supply for both the DRX and lamp.
How do I focus the light into the system?
With every DRX system PTI provides a manual illustrating the focus process.
What kind of electronics do I need to run the DRX?
The DRX comes with it's own built in electronic. a simple USB interface standard or optional PCI interface for High Speed Operation.
Is the DRX easy to install?
YES, PTI supplies a easy to use manual to illustrate the ease of use and set up.
What kind of computer can I use with the DRX?
The DRX interfaces with the computer via USB therefore it does not matter what kind of PC or Notebook that is used.
Can I use the DRX with a MAC?
Yes depending on the software you chose to use. Check with your local rep for more details.
How do I know that the correct wavelength is being emitted from the DRX?
Every DRX is tested through out the wavelength region to verify every wavelength. Unlike a filter based system you have the flexibility to calibrate the DRX, depending on you detection method PTI has a verity of deferent calibration checks for you conduct at any time.
