Physitemp’s TS-4MPER Thermal Stage helps to maintain a specimen on a culture dish or microscope slide at temperatures ranging from -20°C to +100°C. Setup is simple and takes little time; the controller helps to regulate the temperature of the stage to within +/-0.1°C.
The TS-4MP Thermal Microscope is a thermoelectric (Peltier) device with no moving parts. It does not use liquid nitrogen or CO2 for cooling. To ensure a smooth operation AC current and a trickle of water are required.
TS-4MP is available in two versions:
- TS-4MP -20° to +60°C
- TS-4MPER -20° to +100°C
TS-4MP comprises of, a controller, a stage, and an optional pump unit.
The Stage is nickel-plated copper, with a thermoelectric module mounted on one side. The size and thickness of the plastic base is the same as a glass slide, and this plastic base fits onto the mechanical stage in the same way as a slide.
Therefore, the thermal stage can be moved relative to the optics by the normal mechanical stage controls. A hole in the metal plate allows the use of transmitted light.
Water is needed to remove excess heat produced by Peltier cooling from the stage. There are two water tubes that have self-sealing connections to prevent spills. Tap water can also be used. If tap water is not accessible, the company’s pump and tank unit, the PTU-3, can be used which is compact and convenient.
Sensors mounted on the stage monitor the temperature for safety and control purposes. The safety sensors can help to prevent overheating in case of failure of cooling water supply or other malfunctions.
The Controller generates a maximum of 10 A at approximately 5 V DC of the thermoelectric modules in the stage. When the stage requires a change from cooling to heating, or vice versa, the output polarity is reversed automatically. While adjusting the desired temperature, the SV digital display indicates the selected control temperature and the PV display indicates the actual temperature.
The TS-4MP’s thermometer circuitry can also be used as a separate thermometer, either with the supplied microprobe or with other Type T thermocouple sensors. The TS-4 comes with a separate thermocouple microprobe.
The optional pump and tank unit (PTU-3) is coupled to an auxiliary AC output on the back of the controller. The tank provides adequate circulation to keep the stage cooled. All water connections are self-sealing.
Using the TS-4MP
The standard TS-4 thermal stage easily fits onto most microscopes and can be modified with the mechanical stage controls. Spring clips on the surface can be used to keep a glass slide in position on the stage.
The controller has two displays. The buttons on the front of the controller can be used to adjust the control temperature. The SV digital display indicates the temperature selection, while the PV display indicates the actual temperature.
Features
The key features of the TS-4MP Thermal Microscope are as follows:
- Digital display of set-up and operating temperatures
- Holds specimen at any temperature, -20°C to +100°C
- Control to within 0.1°C
- Built-in digital thermometer
- Solid state technology no moving parts
- Fits most microscopes
Specifications
The specifications of the TS-4MP Thermal Microscope are as follows:
| Stage Specifications |
| Temp. Range: |
TS-4 -20 to +60°C
TS-4ER -20° to +100°C Temp. Controlled |
| Surface Area: |
1.25" x 1.5" |
| Weight: |
16 oz., including lead |
| Lead Length: |
40 inches |
| Material: |
Copper, nickel plated |
| Mounting: |
Plastic. Fits slide holder |
| Controller Specifications |
| Temp. Range: |
TS-4 -20 to +60°C TS-4ER -20°) to +100°C |
| Resolution: |
0.1°C |
| Power Supply: |
115 V or 230 V AC |
| Power Consumption: |
approximately 100 Watts |
| Dimensions: |
8" x 7" x 17" |
| Weight: |
28 lbs. |