Bannockburn, Illinois. Leica Microsystems Inc. expands its line of digital inverted research microscopes with the new DMI3000 B and DMI4000 B, which join the well-received DMI6000 B launched at ASCB in 2004. The three models provide solutions ranging from simple micromanipulation to advanced live cell fluorescence imaging.

"Simply Microscopy" is the central theme for Leica's line of digital microscopes. This phrase describes intelligent automation that allows a researcher to fully focus on his or her experiment and not on the microscope function. Leica's pioneering concept ensures that the correct component is selected for each contrast technique and returns light settings to their optimized values.

The fully manual Leica DMI3000 B is an affordable platform specifically tailored for micromanipulation. The DMI4000 B provides a flexible and modular platform for adding automation based on experimental needs. Even manually operated components are encoded so that the microscope can guide the user to proper operation.

The new Leica DMI3000 B and DMI4000 B fulfill the requirements for optical brilliance and stability needed by the latest live cell applications. In addition, ergonomic design is used throughout to ensure comfortable operation during long periods at the microscope.

Through improved optics and reduced stray light, the DMI4000 B and DMI6000 B achieve especially brilliant fluorescence. The fluorescence turret is equipped with up to six filter cubes that can be moved into position quickly, without vibration, at the touch of a button.

The fluorescence axis also features an ultrafast, internal filter wheel (IFW) that supports changing the excitation of fluorochromes in less than 20 milliseconds. The Fluorescence Intensity Manager (FIM) reduces light stress for living cells and the bleaching of fluorochromes-the intensity of the excitation light can be reduced in a reproducible manner while the quality of the fluorescence is improved. And, the integrated, motorized Excitation Manager (ExMan) balances a variety of emission intensities when simultaneously observing multiple fluorochromes. This innovative combination is truly unique.

A versatile line of accessories create an ideal environment for live cell observation. Accessories include incubators, heating and cooling devices, CO2 and 02, and perfusion to provide ideal physiological conditions for cells. In addition to a wide range of mechanical and motorized micromanipulators, Leica's DMI microscopes are also available with narrow specimen stages that allow manipulators and other peripherals to be positioned closely to the specimen.