In some situations, for example when using the large X-Y stage in a lowered position, it may be desirable to adjust the Home and Focus positions. Here's how to do it.
First, select Screen 3 on the microscope controller display and select the 10x objective. Then select Screen 4 and select Z-mode (top right).
Using the controls on the microscope controller, raise the nosepiece all the way to the top, or to a level that allows you to change your sample without interference from the objectives. Note the Set/Clear Limits button (bottom left) which has two parts, the Up/Down symbol
and the word Home
On the Set/Clear Limits button, push the Home button on the Set/Clear Limits button (it will turn red). The button will now be labelled Set/Clear Home Position.
To set the Home position, hit the Set button (it will turn red). The Home position indicator will appear.
To clear the Home position, hit the Clear button. It will also turn red. The Home button will go gray.
Raise the nosepiece and set a glass slide specimen on the stage. If you do not have a suitable slide, there are some H & E stained slides in the top drawer of the desk. The slides are autofluorescent to GFP or YFP excitation, so you may use fluorescence as an alternative to transmitted light.
Manually lower the nosepiece until the specimen is in focus through the eyepieces with the 10X lens. Raise it a small amount.
On the Set/Clear Limits button, push the Up/Down button (it will turn red). The button will now be labelled Set/Clear Focus Position.
To set the current nosepiece position as the Focus Stop position, hit the Set button (it will also turn red). To clear the Focus Stop position, hit the Clear button. It will also turn red. The Focus Stop position indicator will appear.
If you have changed either setting, remember to restore the Home and Focus positions for the next user.
