Lei-Tech LK-HW70 Stereomicroscope Temperature-Controlled Stage
| Brand | Lei-Tech |
|---|---|
| Origin | Tianjin, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Model | LK-HW70 |
| Power Supply | 220 V ±10%, 45–60 Hz |
| Output Voltage | 36 V DC |
| Rated Power | 50 W |
| Temp. Control Range | Ambient to 60 °C |
| Temp. Setpoint Resolution | Digital, Pre-settable |
| Measurement Accuracy | ≤ ±0.2 °C across full range |
| Stage Dimensions | 165 × 130 × 8 mm |
| Central Aperture | Ø38 mm |
| Control Method | Fuzzy Logic + PID Algorithm |
| Heating Element | PTC Ceramic |
| Safety | Low-Voltage Isolated Output (36 V), Solid-State Zero-Crossing Power Modulation |
Overview
The Lei-Tech LK-HW70 Stereomicroscope Temperature-Controlled Stage is an engineered thermal platform designed for precise, stable, and repeatable temperature regulation of biological specimens during live observation under stereoscopic (dissecting) microscopes. It operates on a closed-loop control architecture integrating a high-stability PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) ceramic heating element, a platinum resistance temperature sensor (PT100-class equivalent), and a digital fuzzy logic + PID controller. This architecture ensures minimal thermal overshoot, rapid stabilization (<90 s to ±0.3 °C of setpoint), and long-term drift <0.1 °C/h — critical for time-lapse imaging of embryonic development, neuronal activity assays, or tissue slice electrophysiology where thermal gradients can induce cellular stress or morphological artifacts. The stage is electrically isolated with a safety-rated 36 V DC output, eliminating risk of ground loop interference with sensitive patch-clamp or fluorescence detection systems.
Key Features
- Low-voltage, galvanically isolated 36 V DC heating circuit — compatible with grounded microscope stands and sensitive peripheral instrumentation
- Fuzzy logic-enhanced PID algorithm for adaptive response to thermal load changes (e.g., addition/removal of coverslips, immersion media, or objective lenses)
- Digital setpoint interface with dual-function “Set/Display” button and precision rotary encoder for sub-degree resolution
- Visual status indication: amber LED during active heating; green LED in maintenance mode (±0.5 °C band)
- Compact, low-profile mechanical design (8 mm height) with recessed Ø38 mm central aperture — optimized for standard stereo microscope nosepiece clearance and transmitted light path alignment
- Robust aluminum alloy base with anodized surface finish — thermally conductive yet corrosion-resistant for humidified chamber environments
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The LK-HW70 accommodates standard Petri dishes (35–100 mm), glass-bottom culture dishes, silicone gasketed chambers, and custom-machined specimen holders via its 165 × 130 mm active surface. Its 60 °C upper limit supports applications including zebrafish embryo staging (28.5 °C), Drosophila behavioral assays (25 °C), and warm-stage immunostaining protocols (37 °C). The device complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical equipment safety and meets EMC Class B emission limits per CISPR 11. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025 or GLP as a standalone metrological instrument, its ±0.2 °C accuracy is traceable to NIST-traceable reference thermometers and suitable for internal method validation under ASTM E2251-21 (Standard Practice for Calibration of Temperature Indicating Devices).
Software & Data Management
The LK-HW70 is a stand-alone analog-digital hybrid controller with no embedded firmware or network interface. Temperature setpoints and real-time readings are displayed locally on a 4-digit LED screen. For integration into automated workflows, optional RS-485 (Modbus RTU) or 0–5 V analog output modules are available upon request — enabling synchronization with acquisition software (e.g., Micro-Manager, NIS-Elements, or LabVIEW-based custom scripts) for timestamped thermal metadata logging. Audit trails, electronic signatures, or 21 CFR Part 11 compliance require external data capture via connected DAQ hardware and validated third-party software platforms.
Applications
- In vivo developmental biology: Maintaining consistent thermal conditions for time-lapse imaging of C. elegans, Danio rerio, or Xenopus laevis embryos
- Neuroscience: Stabilizing cortical or hippocampal brain slices during whole-cell patch-clamp recordings
- Cell biology: Supporting live-cell migration assays under controlled thermal profiles to study heat-shock protein dynamics
- Microinjection & micromanipulation: Preventing thermal shock during pronuclear injection or CRISPR/Cas9 delivery in oocytes
- Quality control in biomanufacturing: Verifying thermal stability of hydrogel-based cell carriers prior to implantation
FAQ
Is the LK-HW70 compatible with inverted microscopes?
Yes — when mounted on an adjustable platform or custom adapter plate, it supports upright and inverted stereomicroscope configurations, provided optical working distance permits clearance above the stage.
Can the stage be used with immersion objectives or water-dipping lenses?
It is not sealed against liquid ingress; however, the 36 V low-voltage design significantly reduces electrical hazard risk if incidental moisture contact occurs. Use only with covered chambers or dry-mount preparations.
What calibration documentation is provided?
Each unit ships with a factory calibration report indicating verification at 25 °C and 37 °C using a Fluke 1523 reference thermometer. Full recalibration services are available through authorized Lei-Tech service centers.
Does the controller support ramp-and-soak temperature profiles?
No — the LK-HW70 implements single-point setpoint control only. Multi-step thermal protocols require external programmable power supplies or PLC integration.
What is the warranty coverage and service response time?
Lei-Tech provides a 24-month limited warranty covering materials and workmanship. Technical support is available 7×24 via email and remote diagnostics; on-site service is dispatched within 72 business hours for major regional hubs in North America, EU, and APAC.
