Motic SMZ171 Stereo Microscope
| Brand | Motic |
|---|---|
| Origin | Fujian, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | SMZ171 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Motic SMZ171 Stereo Microscope is an entry-to-mid-tier Greenough-type stereomicroscope engineered for routine inspection, quality control, educational instruction, and light industrial applications. It operates on the principle of dual optical paths—each objective and eyepiece pair forming an independent imaging channel—to deliver true binocular depth perception and natural 3D visualization without reliance on prisms or beam splitters typical of Common Main Objective (CMO) systems. The SMZ171 features a continuous zoom optical system with a 1:6.7 magnification ratio (typically spanning 6.7× to 45× with standard 10× eyepieces), enabling seamless adjustment across the entire magnification range without mechanical stage repositioning or lens swapping. Its long working distance (≥110 mm at lowest magnification) and large depth of field support safe, unobstructed manipulation of specimens—including PCB assemblies, botanical samples, small mechanical components, and biological preparations—under observation.
Key Features
- Greenough optical design ensuring high contrast, minimal chromatic aberration, and inherent stereoscopic fidelity
- Continuous zoom mechanism with 1:6.7 magnification ratio (standard configuration: 6.7×–45×)
- Extended working distance (>110 mm at 6.7×; >45 mm at 45×) facilitating tool access and hands-on sample handling
- Large depth of field optimized for dimensional stability across focal planes in low-to-moderate magnification ranges
- Ergonomic inclined binocular head (45° tilt) with interpupillary adjustment (55–75 mm) and diopter compensation
- Integrated LED illumination system with adjustable brightness and cold white light output (5500 K CCT), minimizing thermal load on heat-sensitive specimens
- Modular base design compatible with transmitted light bases (optional), ring lights, fiber-optic illuminators, and camera adapters
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SMZ171 accommodates a broad spectrum of non-destructive macro-to-micro scale samples, including electronic solder joints, watch components, textile fibers, insect morphology, plant tissue sections, and printed circuit boards. Its open-stage architecture supports both opaque and semi-transparent specimens. While not certified for regulated GMP/GLP environments requiring full audit trails, the microscope conforms to ISO 10934-1:2004 (optical microscopes — terminology and definitions) and meets CE marking requirements for laboratory equipment safety (EN 61000-6-3, EN 61000-6-2). When paired with optional digital imaging modules, it supports documentation workflows aligned with basic quality assurance protocols per ISO 9001.
Software & Data Management
The SMZ171 does not include proprietary acquisition software by default but is fully compatible with third-party USB 2.0/3.0 digital cameras (e.g., Moticam series, AmScope, or Thorlabs models) and widely adopted imaging platforms such as Motic Images Plus 3.0, ImageJ/Fiji, and NIS-Elements Basic. Camera integration enables still image capture, time-lapse recording, measurement annotation (length, angle, area), and export in TIFF, JPEG, and BMP formats. Metadata logging—including magnification level (via encoder-equipped zoom knobs on upgraded variants), timestamp, and user ID—is supported when used with compliant software packages meeting FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements (e.g., validated versions of Olympus cellSens or Leica LAS X).
Applications
- Electronics manufacturing: solder joint inspection, component placement verification, and PCB defect identification
- Academic laboratories: dissection training, entomological classification, and materials science demonstrations
- Forensic analysis: fiber comparison, toolmark examination, and trace evidence documentation
- Jewelry and watchmaking: precision assembly, gemstone evaluation, and finishing quality assessment
- Life sciences: live specimen observation (e.g., Drosophila, zebrafish embryos), histology slide screening, and microinjection setup
- Industrial maintenance: corrosion assessment, coating thickness estimation, and wear pattern analysis
FAQ
What is the maximum total magnification achievable with the SMZ171?
With standard 10× eyepieces and the built-in 1:6.7 zoom body, the SMZ171 delivers 6.7× to 45×. Using optional 15× or 20× wide-field eyepieces increases upper magnification limits to 67.5× or 90×, respectively.
Is the SMZ171 suitable for photomicrography?
Yes—its trinocular port (optional accessory) accepts C-mount or F-mount digital cameras. Mechanical coupling ensures parfocal alignment between visual and imaging paths.
Does the SMZ171 support transmitted light illumination?
The base model includes reflected LED illumination only; however, an optional transmitted light base (with frosted glass diffuser and intensity control) can be added for translucent or thin-sectioned specimens.
Can the SMZ171 be integrated into automated inspection systems?
While not natively equipped with motorized focus or programmable zoom, the SMZ171’s mechanical stability and standardized mounting interfaces (M42 × 0.75 mm thread on trinocular tube) enable integration with third-party motion controllers and machine vision platforms.
What warranty and service support does Motic provide for the SMZ171 outside China?
Motic offers a standard 2-year limited warranty on optical and mechanical components; extended service plans and regional technical support are available through authorized distributors in North America, EMEA, and APAC regions.
