Warm Stage Microscope

Information on Warm Stage Microscopes.

Warm stage

A warm stage is an apparatus for applying warmth to a specimen under continuous observation. A simple form consists of an oblong copper plate 3x1 inches, from one side of which projects a long narrow strip and which has an aperture 1/2 inch diameter in the centre of the 3 X 1-inch portion. It is placed on the stage of the microscope and held like an ordinary 3x1 glass slip in such a position that the long strip projects in front of the microscope. A spirit lamp is placed under the far end of the projecting strip and adjusted so that its flame impinges on the strip, or is slightly to one side, until the portion of the copper plate which is near the 1/2-inch aperture is at blood heat. The correct temperature is readily ascertained if a small piece of a mixture of cacao butter and wax is placed on the copper near the aperture. The mixture is made in such proportions that it melts at blood heat, and when the piece melts on the copper the correct temperature has been reached.

The drop of fluid to be examined is placed on a large cover glass and a smaller cover glass is placed over it, and the two laid upon the copper plate. To prevent evaporation the upper cover glass should be smeared round its edge with olive oil or vaseline.

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