KL Fiber Optic Light Sources
The complete solution for stereo microscopy
SCHOTT’s collection of KL Fiber Optic Light Sources offers a broad choice of controllable illumination for all areas of stereo microscopy. It combines homogenous light with long LED lifetime and ergonomic design for maintenance-free operation. A series of compatible light guides plus a vast range of options and accessories means that we offer complete lighting solutions for all applications.
FAQs
Replacements / Spare Parts
Light sources such as the KL 1500, KL 1500 electronic, KL 1500 compact, KL 1500 LCD, and KL 2500 LCD or the ColdVision ACE® and DCR® III are not available anymore. Please take a look at the table to see which new model might work for you as replacement.
Compatibility of products
LED vs Halogen
Advantages
- Best colour reproduction, especially for red shades.
- Same colour spectrum as sunlight in visible region.
- Natural colour reproduction across the full spectrum.
- Practical use case which everybody knows: Cloths, which look different in sunlight compared to a shop with neon light.
- Use cases for microscopy include forensics, museums, medical technology, and yellow metals (brass, gold).
Disadvantages
- Colour temperature not consistent, between 3050K and 3400K depending on brightness setting. Optional daylight filter available.
- Lifetime of the lamp about 50-1500 hours, depending on brightness setting.
- Higher operational costs.
Advantages
- Long lifetime of 50,000 hours (decrease luminous lux to 70%).
- Consistent colour temperature of 5600K (daylight) during dimming. An optional halogen filter for a more yellow color is available, similar to halogen light.
- Low power consumption.
Disadvantages
- Limitations in colour reproduction, especially in the bluegreen and red color ranges.
Halogen and LED light sources have different native emission characteristics. Filters interact with them in distinct ways. Please see below the emission spectrum charts for the different KL light sources used with their corresponding color filters.
KL 1500 HAL (halogen)
KL 1600 LED / KL 2500 LED
If you need guidance selecting the optimal filter/light source pairing, SCHOTT’s application experts are available to support you.
Differences of products
The choice between those two products depends on your requirements and use case. The KL 300 LED allows multi-function illumination. It offers an easy exchange of light guides by using the same light source. Therefore, it gives full flexibility for realizing different illumination techniques with different light guides (Ring Light, Gooseneck, Flexible Light Guide, and Backlight). On the other hand, the EasyLED Spotlight Plus is a Gooseneck solution that offers brighter illumination and stronger contrast based on the independent light control of both arms.
A diffusor softens the light and reduces the reflection of LEDs on the sample. A polarisation filter eliminates reflections from the surface of the sample and pronounces anisotropic materials, but can also change the impression of the image. Furthermore, this method is very light-consuming.
Where can I buy SCHOTT microscopy products?
To provide the best possible service and answer your needs, SCHOTT collaborates with a broad network of microscope manufacturers and resellers around the globe. Please feel free to contact us, including information about your location and requirements. We will be happy to guide you to relevant retailers.