OverviewTransmitted-light microscopes from KERN & SOHN are designed for laboratory, diagnostic and educational use. Available from compact student models to advanced trinocular research instruments, these microscopes provide precise optical performance, LED transmitted illumination and options for digital imaging.
Product lines at a glance- KERN OBN series – high-end research microscopes with advanced optics and upgrade options.
- KERN OBL series – configurable microscopes for routine laboratory and teaching applications.
- KERN OBT series – compact, user-friendly models ideal for students and entry-level laboratories.
- KERN OBE series – robust, versatile microscopes suited to schools, universities and diagnostic labs.
Applications & target groups- Biology, medical and chemical laboratories
- Clinical diagnostics, histology and cell biology
- Universities, research institutes and teaching laboratories
- Vocational schools and classroom microscopy
Microscopes for students, education & universities- Simple, intuitive controls for classroom workflows
- Durable construction for daily use in training environments
- Variable magnifications to teach microscopy fundamentals
- Optional digital camera (C‑Mount) for live view and documentation
- Transmitted LED illumination suitable for stained and transparent specimens
Accessories (overview)- Interchangeable objectives and eyepieces
- LED illumination modules and contrast filters
- Microscope cameras and tablet/PC adapters
- Mechanical stages, dust covers and calibration sets
- Phase contrast and condenser options (model dependent)
Frequently asked questions (summary)- What is a transmitted-light microscope? – A bright-field microscope where light passes through transparent specimens to reveal internal structures at high magnification.
- How does it differ from a stereo microscope? – Transmitted-light microscopes produce high-magnification 2D images of thin/transparent samples; stereo microscopes provide a 3D view of larger, opaque objects at low magnification.
- Which light source is recommended? – LED illumination is recommended for uniform light, long lifetime and adjustable brightness.
- Can these microscopes be digitised? – Many KERN models accept C‑Mount cameras (via adapter) for live streaming, image capture and documentation.
- What is a C‑Mount camera? – A standardised microscope camera interface (1" thread) offering connections such as USB, HDMI or WLAN depending on the camera.
Characteristics / technical specifications- Typical illumination: LED, adjustable brightness
- Tube types: monocular, binocular, trinocular (model dependent)
- Typical objective magnifications: 4x, 10x, 20x, 40x, 100x (oil)
- Interchangeable objectives and eyepieces for flexible magnification setups
- C‑Mount retrofit possible on many trinocular models for digital imaging
- Applications: laboratory, diagnostic, educational and research use
- Accessories: filters, phase contrast/fluorescence units (depending on model), condensers and camera adapters