How to choose a microscope for a schoolboy?

In the list of the best gifts for a child, it is necessary to include technology for scientific research. Of course, we are talking about the amateur and, what's more, the children's level of studying the world around us. But to bookmark the curious base of the schoolboy this will be enough. One of the most interesting and easy-to-use options for such equipment is a microscope. Modern models organically combine the convenience of use and rather high performance characteristics. Nevertheless, when determining how to choose a microscope for a schoolboy, different parameters of the apparatus should be taken into account. Although manufacturers identify special lines of children's models, even among them, the choice can bring certain difficulties.

What is the special feature of children's models?

Typically, children's analogs of equipment and technology designed for adults, have a fairly simplified design. This applies in part to microscopes, although the same components are used: an eyepiece, a tripod, a tube, lenses, a stage and mirrors. Depending on the model, the microscope for the schoolchild can have different characteristics of these elements, but all of them are oriented to the operation of the initial level of complexity.

Also, it should be borne in mind that such models can not be compared with high-grade devices in terms of the magnification ratio. The minimum parameter of this parameter is 40 times, and in the middle segment of children's devices you can find devices with a 600-fold increase. The choice for this characteristic should be made based on the use requests. In addition, a microscope for a schoolboy can be distinguished by designer nuances, which is expressed in the form of a design and color design. Do not forget that we are talking about children, and the external execution of the microscope also matters.

Types of microscopes for school children

Still the most common electronic models, which are supplied with electrostatic magnetic lenses. But this device can not be called educational, since it has a high possibility of increase, which can be superfluous in the hands of the student. Usually monocular devices are chosen for such needs, which have a simple device, but at the same time they cope with the tasks of the educational process. A biological microscope is also common for a schoolboy, the reviews of which are marked by functionality and extensive opportunities for studying cells. Perhaps the most technologically advanced is a stereoscopic device, which is equipped with two eyepieces. Such a model is attractive not only for convenient observation of the objects under study, but also for the presence of a backlight, which provides a clearer image quality in the lens.

Digital Models

A digital device deserves special attention. It should be noted right away that this microscope costs significantly more than traditional analogues, but its functionality is worth it. A special feature of the device is the ability to connect to a computer or a video camera via the USB interface. This means that a digital microscope for a student can directly transmit the results of observation to special media. Typically, these modifications are equipped with digital displays and LED backlighting. For educational needs, this option is suitable because the student can easily learn the functionality of the device, and the ability to record materials will allow continuing research even after completing work with the instrument.

What to consider in the selection process?

First of all, one should think about the quality of performance in terms of material. The housing can be plastic or metal. Modern plastics are strong, and also give the product a small mass. Metal devices are durable, but for a child they are more difficult to handle. Lenses and eyepieces should be made only of glass - a cheap replacement in the form of plastic rarely provides good quality. Concerning the multiplicity, it has already been noted that microscopes for schoolchildren can increase their eyesight by an average of 40 to 600 times. There are also models that provide a higher indicator, but for the school level it is not necessary. It is much more important to consider the practicality of the device. For example, lighting is better to prefer on the basis of LEDs, and in the object table provide reliable and convenient fixatives.

Manufacturers of microscopes

Quality and functional microscopes are produced under the brand name Bresser. In the manufacturer's line, you can find devices that have a 450-fold increase, equipped with digital devices and LED backlighting. If you need to equip a whole laboratory for the schoolboy, then you should prefer the microscope for the schoolboy "Young Scientist" from the manufacturer of Discovery. The device has in the construction microscopic monocular lenses with a high degree of magnification up to 1200 times, which allows to examine in detail the smallest objects. This model also features a wide range of accessories, which includes 60 components.

An interesting solution is offered by Eastcolight. The creators provide multifunctional sets that include not only a microscope for the schoolboy, but also a telescope. The magnifying power of the first is 900 times, while the kit also contains a wide range of mirrors and lenses, tweezers, magnifiers, holders, needles and scalpels.

Accessories for microscope

In addition to the basic equipment, additional devices and devices that facilitate the maintenance of the device, as well as the research work of the young user, may be required. Here you can include microscopic kits and care products for optics. It is advisable to purchase a microscope for the student with a pneumatic cleaner, special sprays and napkins. For ease of operation, it will not be superfluous to also provide separate illuminators, condensers and auxiliary eyepieces with lenses.

Conclusion

According to their characteristics, children's models of microscopes are not so far from full-fledged analogs for adults. Even the quality of optics and its ability to increase do not allow to call such devices toy. Nevertheless, microscopes for schoolchildren still have some limitations in functionality. And this is justified, since it is possible to delve into the subtleties of chemical and biological observations only after working with the entry-level devices. The only thing to save on when choosing a school microscope is on the technological stuffing and modern means of ergonomics. In the best way, these qualities are combined in digital models.