Olympus CKX31 Inverted Phase Contrast Microscope with UIS2 Optics and Ultra-Long Working Distance Condenser

The Olympus CKX31 Inverted Phase Contrast Microscope is a benchtop optical microscope designed specifically for live-cell imaging and phase contrast applications in biotechnology and biomedical research. Featuring the advanced UIS2 (Universal Infinity System) optical system, it delivers enhanced image flatness and high contrast across the entire field of view, critical for detailed cellular morphology studies.

Key technical specs include:

• Observation methods: Phase contrast and brightfield microscopy, essential for transparent biological samples and molecular diagnostics.
• Condenser: Built-in ultra-long working distance condenser (NA 0.3, W.D. 72 mm) optimized for non-glass cell culture vessels, reducing artifacts and improving image clarity in bioprocessing environments.
• Focusing: Vertical movement via revolving nosepiece with combined coarse and fine adjustment knobs featuring rotation tension control for precise focusing without stage height changes.
• Optical components: 10x binocular fixed head with plan objectives (4x, 10x, 20x), phase ring slider with pre-centered rings to streamline magnification changes and minimize optical adjustments, improving workflow efficiency in synthetic biology and cellular assays.
• Dimensions and environment: Compact footprint (12 x 20 x 20 inches) weighing 17 lbs, suitable for placement within cell culture hoods or adjacent to incubators; operational in ambient temperatures from 5° to 40°C with up to 80% relative humidity at lower temperatures, supporting diverse laboratory conditions up to 2000 m altitude.
• Power: 115V, 50/60 Hz compatible with standard laboratory electrical setups.

The instrument’s design emphasizes minimal optical adjustment and robust performance, making it popular among molecular biology researchers and clinical diagnostics professionals engaged in tissue culture, gene editing, and biomanufacturing pipelines. Its compact size and ergonomic operation increase productivity by enabling seamless integration into biotechnological workflows such as live-cell imaging and fluorescence microscopy.

Included accessories:

• 10x binocular head with eyepieces
• Plan objectives (4x, 10x, 20x)
• Phase ring slider pre-centered for rapid contrast switching
• 120V power cord (2A)
• 30-day warranty

Overall, the Olympus CKX31 is a reliable inverted phase contrast microscope, widely adopted for essential molecular cloning workflows and critical in biopharmaceutical production pipelines requiring high-resolution cellular visualization with minimal sample disturbance.