The standard version has been designed as an economical entry-level product to enable non-specialist users to evaluate the technique in a safe class 1 laser environment. For more advanced applications that require higher laser powers, the unit incorporates an optical input port for introducing an external laser source.

E3100 Compact Desktop Unit

The E3100 is an economical entry-level workstation for users wishing to evaluate single beam particle trapping and manipulation techniques. It is suitable for working with micron sized particles and can be used for cell manipulation using either the conjugate beam steering optics or the precision XY stage.

The laser beam containing the trapped particle can be directed anywhere within the field of view by manually steering the conjugate optics. Alternatively, the particle can be held trapped in place and the bulk sample moved around it using the precision XY stage. Trapping in X,Y and Z axes is also possible using the variable focus stage, where particles can be lifted above the rest of the sample. For applications involving rotation of birefringent particles an optional polarization optic and rotation mount can be added.

Samples on a microscope slide are inserted into the sample holder which is mounted on an XYZ stage. Access to the sample holder is via an interlocked door. The diode laser is mounted within the enclosure and in the standard system comprises either a 685nm (40 mW) or 785nm (56 mW) source. Each laser features a circular near Gaussian profile with diffraction-limited performance. An external laser port is provided for situations where the internal laser is unsuitable.

A x100 oil immersion objective with NA of 1.25 in conjunction with the high beam quality of the laser provides a very small focused spot allowing the trapping of individual particles.

The output from the colour CCD camera can be displayed either directly on the customer's monitor via the S-video connection, or on a computer fitted with a framegrabber.

Specifications

Model  E3100  Optical Tweezer System comprises:

- Fully interlocked laser enclosure

- Internal diode laser source (choice of either 685nm or 785nm), with adjustable output power

- 100x  oil immersion objective with 1.25 NA for laser focusing and effective particle trapping

- Dichroic Visible/IR mirror

- Conjugate beam steering optics

- Sample stage on XYZ micropositioner with manual controls

- Backlight illumination with adjustable intensity cool light source

- Colour CCD camera with video out

- Laser blocking filter

- Variable focus stage for XYZ trapping

- Laser power monitor and display

- Optical input port for use with external lasers

E3200 Custom Systems
For the advanced researcher a number of different breadboard-based custom systems can be configured using an open architecture format for laboratory environments. This range of systems can cater for the many variations needed by users of optical trapping equipment. E3200 custom systems can be supplied either ready assembled or in modular form for the user to set up to match particular requirements.

The E3100 and E3200 are manufactured under license from The University of St. Andrews.