Sensitivity in a New Dimension

With the LSM 780, Carl Zeiss is now adding a new member to its family of LSM 7 laser scanning microscopes. The use of the new GaAsP detector technology has almost doubled the sensitivity of the currently leading LSM 710. Cell biologists and neurobiologists can now visualize weakly fluorescent or bleach-sensitive specimens and specimens with fine structures more quickly and with higher image quality. The higher quantum efficiency of the new detectors makes it possible for the LSM 780 to also image specimens which could not be satisfactorily examined in the past, such as sensitive and weakly stained yeast cells.

To make the GaAsP detector technology available to a wide range of users, it will be offered in three versions: as an internal spectral 32-channel detector in the LSM 780 laser scanning microscope, as a detector upgrade for existing LSM 710 systems and as the external LSM BiG upgrade module. All versions of the 32-channel GaAsP array permit traditional spectral imaging, photon counting with maximum sensitivity, and single molecule visualization through fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) with one to six signal channels.

With the universal LSM BiG module, the GaAsP technology can be used for further imaging modes. For multiphoton microscopy with the LSM 780 NLO and 710 NLO systems, the LSM BiG significantly improves non-descanned detection. While in the past several specialized detectors were required for imaging, multiphoton examination and FCS, the GaAsP technology of the LSM BiG makes it possible for all applications to be carried out with one universal module—with better image quality and faster image capture.

The 64-Bit ZEN 2010 software of the LSM 780 contains two new functions which are also available for the LSM 710 and LSM 710 NLO systems.

The OSCiscan function with Online Scanner Calibration allows higher speeds without compromise. Frames of 512 x 512 pixels can now be visualized with a speed of 8 frames a second while, for example, 250 frames a second are possible with image sizes of 512 x 16 pixels.

The ROI-HDR (High Dynamic Range Imaging) function enables intelligent enhancement of the image dynamics. The bright and dark areas of the specimen are scanned with individual and adapted acquisition settings, ensuring that optimal imaging fidelity is achieved for all parts of a specimen (e.g. nerve cells).

Its availability for the Axio Imager, Axio Examiner and Axio Observer microscope platforms allow the LSM 780 to meet user requests for upgrading possibilities and versatility. It can be delivered with all laser options of the LSM 710, such as NLO and the flexible InTune laser. Upgrades of current LSM 710 systems to the GaAsP technology of the LSM 780 are possible. Both systems can be combined with the new ELYRA P.1 and ELYRA PS.1 units for superresolution microscopy beyond the diffraction limit.

Further information is available at: www.zeiss.de/LSM780

Text on the Internet: www.zeiss.de/micro-press

Carl Zeiss AG

Carl Zeiss AG is a leading group of companies operating worldwide in the optical and opto-electronic industries. The five independently operating business groups are active in the future-oriented markets of Medical and Research Solutions, Industrial Solutions and Lifestyle Products. Founded in 1846 in Jena, the company is headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany. Carl Zeiss AG is fully owned by the Carl Zeiss Stiftung (Carl Zeiss Foundation). During fiscal year 2007/08 (ended Sept. 30), the company generated revenues of EUR 2,731 million. Carl Zeiss has around 13,000 employees in more than 30 countries, including over 8,000 in Germany.

Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH

Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH is a 100% subsidiary of Carl Zeiss AG. The leading manufacturer of microscope systems offers total solutions for biomedical research, the healthcare sector and high-tech industries. The product line spans a broad spectrum from light microscopes and systems for laser scanning microscopy and spectrometry to hardware and software for image processing and documentation.

Microscopes from Carl Zeiss allow scientists to gain important knowledge about diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s and tuberculosis. This results in new diagnostic techniques and better drugs for therapy. ZEISS microscopes support the development of new materials and enable more efficient quality inspection in industry.

Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH is headquartered in Jena. Other manufacturing and development sites are located in Göttingen and Munich. During fiscal year 2007/08, the Microscopy Group at Carl Zeiss generated revenues of approximately EUR 340 million with a global workforce of about 1,700.

Further information is available at: www.zeiss.de/micro