DMSE Breakerspace
Two-page Quick Guide For trained users. Print on Letter paper at 100%, two-sided, flipping on the long edge.
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DMSE Breakerspace · Trained-user reference

DSX-1000 Optical Microscope

Choose an observation mode, capture a useful image, and leave the motorized system clear and ready.

Olympus DSX-1000 digital optical microscope.

What this instrument shows

The DSX-1000 uses visible light, interchangeable objectives, controlled illumination, and a digital camera to inspect surface color, shape, texture, defects, and relief. It can capture 2D images, focus-stacked 3D data, and stitched maps.

Color optical image of a bee surface. Height map of the same bee surface. Optical image of a scored-glass fracture surface.
Color, surface height, and fracture detail are different views of a sample—not interchangeable measurements.

Choose a useful mode

GoalStart with
General inspection of a flat sampleBrightfield
Scratches, relief, or unevennessOblique or DIC
Edges, dust, particles, or defectsDarkfield or BF/DF mix
Crystals, fibers, minerals, or orientation contrastSimple polarization
Large area or surface height2D stitching or 3D acquisition

Before loading a sample

  • Use only non-hazardous samples that are stable and safe to handle.
  • Keep the sample under the 5 kg stage limit.
  • Confirm enough clearance for the objective, head, stage, tilt, and any planned stitching or 3D motion.
  • Contain liquids so they cannot spill. Ask first about sharp, fragile, wet, loose, powdery, odorous, unknown, or unusually heavy samples.

Interpret results carefully

  • Record the objective, zoom, observation mode, scale, and sample orientation.
  • Save the raw image or dataset before exporting reports or derived files.
  • A 3D result depends on focus, reflectivity, lighting, and software assumptions.
  • An optical image usually does not identify chemistry; use FTIR, Raman, or SEM-EDS when composition is the question.
Full operating guide: breakerspace.mit.edu/instruments/optical.html Reviewed 2026-07-22 · Side 1 of 2

DMSE Breakerspace · DSX-1000 Optical Microscope

Routine trained-user workflow

1 Start safely

  1. Wear nitrile gloves while handling samples, stage plates, objectives, or preparation tools.
  2. Switch on the microscope and log on to Windows with your MIT Kerberos.
  3. Clear the stage and the full motion path.
  4. Start DSX and log on as Guest with no password.
  5. Confirm it is safe for the stage and head to move; then lower the stage with the manual focusing knob.
  6. Load or change the objective if needed and lower the head into its tilt position.

2 Load and focus

  1. Place the stable sample on the stage with clearance for every planned movement.
  2. Remove gloves before touching the keyboard, mouse, or workstation.
  3. Bring the sample into rough focus with the manual focusing knob.
  4. Use the joystick to position the region of interest.
  5. Fine-focus with the console controls, focus wheel, or software buttons.

3 Observe and acquire

  1. Use Best Image to compare modes, or select the mode manually.
  2. Choose 2D, 3D, stitched, movie, time-lapse, or path acquisition for the question you are answering.
  3. Before automated motion, recheck sample stability and clearance.
  4. Capture the result and verify that it is saved in the intended location.
  5. Record enough settings to reproduce or interpret the image.

4 Unload and shut down

  1. Save and copy all data you need.
  2. Wear gloves again and remove the sample from the stage.
  3. Close DSX and confirm exit so the microscope retracts the head.
  4. Wait for the software to close fully, then switch off the microscope.
  5. Log out of Windows, replace the dust cover, and leave the stage and workstation clean.