LabSmith: Synchronized Video Microscopes FAQ

The following are answers to frequently asked questions regarding LabSmith Synchronized Video Microscopes.

Can I incorporate active microsystems for viewing with the SVM?

Yes. LabSmith's bonded-port connectors let you join microsystems to chips or slides for viewing in the SVM. View a document describing how to attach a bonded port connector to a glass slide.

How do I image my micro-channels in color?

1. Ensure that you have a color camera module installed (check the label on the front of the camera module). The SVM340 comes standard with a B&W camera module. Additional camera modules can be purchased from LabSmith.

2. Verify that the color format is set to RGB by choosing Video>Color format>24 bit RGB.

3. Choose View>Video Options>Analog settings... and set the saturation to 100% of scale.

4. Ensure that there is enough signal light for the camera to work in color mode. At low light levels, the camera reverts to black and white to reduce noise. Turn up the illuminator intensity to full scale to check.

5. To verify that the camera is, in fact, in a color mode, shine a white light on the top to flood illuminate your sample and check whether the output is in color. You might also place a color picture from, say, a magazine on the sample stage and check for color output.

Does the SVM include any software for image processing?

The uScope software, which comes with the SVM, includes some real-time image processing, such as Intensity Over a Region, and PIV. These measurements can be saved to disk and analyzed later.

Can I use PIV probes with the SVM?

Yes. The included uScope software lets you place multiple probes in the flow and control their individual settings. Here is a document explaining their use.

Which video card should I use with my SVM340?

For a desktop computer: we recommend the Hauppauge Impact VCB video input adapter - PCI (558).

For a laptop: USB video card we recommend is the ADS TECH INSTANT VIDEOMPX (USBAV-708).

One card is included with your SVM340 (your choice, at the time of purchase). Additional units can be purchased from LabSmith or from many electronics retailers.

What functionality do I gain with the Software Developers' Kit?

The SDK allows you to move the stage and change illuminator settings automatically.

Email your questions to support@labsmith.com.