The Primo Star iLED microscope from Carl Zeiss is now available with three additional fluorescence attachments that allow users to work with different dyes such as FITC, Dapi and Rhodamine/Cy 3. This permits the use of the LED-based microscope for single fluorescence applications in training, routine procedures and basic research. It is particularly robust and easy to use, and features an outstanding price-performance ratio, to which the long-lasting, inexpensive and energy-saving LED light source makes a valuable contribution.

For training in particular, fluorescence excitation through LED illumination is beneficial as there are no warm-up or cool-down times unlike fluorescence excitation using mercury vapor lamps. Furthermore, the excitation lamps no longer need to be readjusted, enabling the user to start working as soon as the light source is turned on. The iLED fluorescence attachment comes with practical eyecups, making it possible to perform fluorescence microscopy without a darkroom—in an auditorium, for example. A lever is used to alternate between brightfield and fluorescence microscopy.

The Primo Star iLED was originally developed together with FIND, the Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics, for the fast and reliable LED fluorescence based testing of tuberculosis and has been on the market since October 2008.

All Primo Star basic packages can be retrofitted with a total of four iLED fluorescence attachments. This also applies to the systems with phase contrast objectives and systems for applications in which a cover slip (D=0) is not used such as in the fast diagnosis of smears and in the diagnosis of tuberculosis.

Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH, a 100% subsidiary of Carl Zeiss AG, focuses on the needs of its users with its BioSciences and Industrial Divisions. As a manufacturer and supplier of microscopy solutions and systems for research, laboratories, routine and industrial applications, the company is one of the global market leaders. The product line includes light microscopes and camera systems, systems for laser scanning microscopy and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, a wide selection of spectrometers, and components for image processing and documentation. During fiscal year 2007/08, the Microscopy Group at Carl Zeiss generated revenues of approximately EUR 339 million with a global workforce of about 1,730.

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

Carl Zeiss AG is a leading group of companies operating worldwide in the optical and opto-electronic industry. 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. The company has been a technological pioneer in optical innovation for more than 160 years.

Carl Zeiss develops and distributes products and services under the ZEISS brand name for biomedical research and medical technology, as well as for the semiconductor, automotive and mechanical engineering industries. Planetariums, binoculars, and camera and cine lenses are valued by millions of users around the world. The eyeglass business is now bundled in Carl Zeiss Vision International GmbH, the number two eyeglass provider in the world.

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.