Nikon ECLIPSE Ts2 Inverted Biological Microscope

Overview

The Nikon ECLIPSE Ts2 is a robust, entry-to-mid-tier inverted biological microscope engineered for routine cell culture monitoring, live-cell observation, and basic fluorescence imaging in academic laboratories, core facilities, and quality control environments. Built upon Nikon’s CFI60 infinity-corrected optical architecture, the Ts2 delivers high-fidelity contrast and consistent resolution across brightfield, phase contrast, and relief contrast modalities—without requiring complex alignment procedures. Its inverted configuration places objectives beneath the specimen stage, enabling direct access to culture vessels (e.g., flasks, dishes, multi-well plates) during real-time observation—a critical advantage for adherent mammalian cell workflows. The Ts2-FL variant extends functionality with integrated epifluorescence capability, supporting multi-color imaging using discrete high-efficiency LED excitation sources (385–625 nm), each independently switchable and thermally stabilized to minimize phototoxicity and spectral crosstalk.

Key Features

• CFI60 optical system ensures chromatic and spherical aberration correction across magnifications, optimized for long working distance (LWD) and extra-long working distance (ELWD) objectives commonly used in tissue culture applications.
• Modular illumination design: Bright white LED transmitted light provides stable, flicker-free Köhler illumination with uniform intensity and >25,000-hour lifetime; no mercury lamp replacement or warm-up time required.
• Pre-centered, user-replaceable contrast modules—including Plan Apochromat phase contrast sliders and dual-side relief contrast assemblies—enable rapid switching between contrast modes without realignment.
• Ergonomic Siedentopf binocular head with 45° inclination and 50–75 mm interpupillary adjustment accommodates diverse users; optional trinocular port supports simultaneous visual observation and digital acquisition (C-mount or Nikon F-mount adapters available).
• Five-position objective turret accepts standard RMS-threaded objectives (e.g., 4×, 10×, 20×, 40× Ph1/Ph2, 60× oil) and integrates seamlessly with Nikon’s CFI Plan Fluor and CFI S Fluor series for enhanced NA and transmission.
• Flat-stage platform (170 × 247 mm) with interchangeable sample holders—including CS-HP35 (35 mm dish), CS-HLP100 (100 mm dish), CS-HT (Terasaki plate), and C-S-HU (universal holder)—ensures compatibility with ISO-standard labware and GLP-compliant documentation protocols.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Ts2 is validated for use with standard sterile cultureware compliant with ISO 8573-1 (compressed air purity) and ASTM D3933 (plastic laboratory equipment). Its ELWD condenser (NA 0.3, 75 mm WD) maintains optimal focus over thick-bottomed vessels and gel-based matrices. All mechanical components—including stage translation mechanisms and focus drives—meet ISO 10993-5 biocompatibility requirements for incidental contact with Class IIa medical device manufacturing environments. While not FDA 510(k)-cleared as a diagnostic instrument, the Ts2 conforms to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and supports audit-ready documentation when paired with Nikon NIS-Elements software under 21 CFR Part 11-compliant configurations (electronic signatures, audit trails, and user access controls enabled).

Software & Data Management

The Ts2 interfaces natively with Nikon NIS-Elements BR (Basic Research) software via USB 3.0 or GigE Vision cameras. NIS-Elements provides automated exposure bracketing, Z-stack acquisition, time-lapse scheduling, and multi-channel fluorescence registration—all traceable via timestamped metadata embedded in TIFF or ND2 file formats. Image data export supports FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) through standardized EXIF and OME-TIFF headers. For regulated environments, optional NIS-Elements AR (Advanced Research) adds full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance: role-based permissions, electronic signature workflows, and immutable audit logs synchronized with Windows Active Directory authentication.

Applications

• Routine cell confluency assessment and morphology evaluation in primary and immortalized lines (e.g., HEK293, HeLa, CHO-K1).
• Phase contrast monitoring of non-adherent cells (e.g., lymphocytes, spheroids) and early embryonic development in vitro.
• Qualitative fluorescence screening using GFP/RFP-tagged constructs, immunofluorescently labeled cytoskeletal markers, or viability dyes (e.g., Calcein AM/PI).
• Quality assurance of monoclonal antibody production batches via hybridoma cell morphology and viability scoring.
• Teaching laboratories: Modular contrast options and intuitive operation support hands-on instruction in microscopy fundamentals, including Köhler alignment, phase ring centering, and fluorescence filter selection.

FAQ

Is the Ts2 compatible with third-party digital cameras?
Yes—the Ts2 features a standard C-mount port (1× magnification) and optional F-mount adapter; most scientific CMOS and CCD cameras with C-mount threading or Nikon F-mount support are interoperable via NIS-Elements drivers.
Can the Ts2-FL perform simultaneous multi-color fluorescence imaging?
No—it uses sequential LED excitation with manual or software-controlled filter cube rotation; true simultaneous multi-channel detection requires an external filter wheel or camera-based spectral unmixing setup.
Does the Ts2 support motorized focus or stage automation?
Not natively—but the Ts2-FL can be upgraded with Nikon’s Motorized Z-Drive (M-ZDC) and Motorized XY Stage (MS-ER) modules when integrated with NIS-Elements AR software.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Annual calibration of LED intensity output and condenser centering is recommended; no optical realignment is needed due to pre-centered contrast modules and rigid mechanical construction.
Is service and spare parts support available globally?
Yes—Nikon Instruments maintains authorized service centers in >60 countries, with documented turnaround times ≤5 business days for standard component replacement (e.g., LED modules, eyepieces, condenser assemblies).