Hi Mike,

We have seen a similar problem to this, particularly apparent in DIC transmitted light images.  However, of our two FV1000 systems (located in different rooms), it is only readily apparent on one.  This has led us to believe it is a vibration issue, especially as we can cause a more severe, but similar-looking problem by deliberately introducing a source of vibration near to the microscope.  However, if true, we have yet to isolate the cause of the problem vibration.

While I'm here...has anyone properly investigated the effect of the DIC objective prism in confocal fluorescence imaging?  I had always assumed (rightly or wrongly) that it's presence didn't influence the PSF, but last week I was imaging some subresolution beads and found that, particularly on our IX81-based FV1000 confocals, the DIC objective prism had quite a pronounced effect on the psf.  Specifically the psf was distorted along a diagonal axis and at the point of focus, the bead appeared significantly larger with the prism in place. The implication of this is that for confocal fluorescence imaging, the resolution of the microscope is reduced when the DIC objective prism is in place.  I've also looked on our Zeiss Axiovert 200 and Nikon TE-2000 based systems which employ a slightly different method of DIC and there the effect is much less pronounced although noticeable.

Simon


-----Original Message-----
From: Confocal Microscopy List [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of MODEL, MICHAEL
Sent: 07 October 2009 12:28
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: exorcising spirits from Fluoview

I apologize if this is a second message to the list, I think the first one didn't go through
 
We are having a bizzare scanning problem. Straight vertical lines in an object become slightly zigzagged with a period of up to 6-7 scan lines, and there also may be some oscillation in the intensity. The period and the magnitude of this periodic noise depends on the scan speed and the scan size. So far we (with the help of an Olympus engineer) have established that:
 
1. It doesn't seem to be the scanner controller or the galvo mechanism
2. It does not seem to be the electric power in the building
3. It is not a mechanical vibration
4. It is not a computer
5. It is not the cables
6. It is not a 60 Hz noise
 
Sometimes connecting the scanner controller to the outlet through a long extension cord seemed to help which may suggest a problem with grounding, but as soon as we concluded that, the trick stopped working. The trouble could not be reproduced at the Olympus testing lab.
 
Has anyone experienced anything similar and successfully resolved the problem?
 
Many thanks in advance!
 
Mike Model