• Digital display of set-up and operating temperatures
• Control to within 0.1°C
• Fits most microscopes
• Built-in digital thermometer

Available in two versions (TS-4, range -20° to +60° C, and TS-4ER, range -20° to +100° C), the device consists of a stage, a controller, and an optional pump unit.

The stage is a thin, nickel-coated copper plate with a thermoelectric module mounted on one side. The plastic base is the same size and thickness as a glass slide and fits onto the mechanical stage of the microscope in the same manner as a slide. The thermal stage can therefore be moved relative to the optics by the normal mechanical stage controls. A hole in the metal plate permits the use of transmitted light.

Water is required for removal of excess heat from the stage. The two water tubes have self-sealing connections to prevent spills. Running water from a tap can be used. If tap water is not easily accessible, the optional pump and tank unit is compact and convenient.

Sensors mounted on the stage provide temperature monitoring for control purposes and safety. The safety sensors prevent overheating in case of failure of cooling water supply or other malfunction.

The controller produces a maximum of 10 Amps at approx. 5 volts DC for the thermoelectric modules in the stage. Output polarity is automatically reversed when the stage requires a change from heating and cooling. During set-up the digital display indicates the control temperature being selected. The actual temperature is displayed during operation.

The thermometer circuitry in the TS-4 can also be used as an independent instrument, either with the microprobe supplied or with any type T thermocouple sensor. A switch on the front panel allows easy selection of the external sensor. Range of the thermometer is -100° to +200° C. A thermocouple microprobe is supplied with the TS-4.

Thermal Profile Controller for Windows™

Windows based software (TPC-WIN) provides computer control for the TS-4 Thermal Microscope Stage, allowing complex temperature profiles to be described quickly as individual segments of time during which temperature may either remain constant or change at a constant rate. "Loop-back" feature permits indefinite cycling of temperature. Software provides for ramp and soak temperature control of the thermo-electric stage with 0.1°C accuracy, using an analogue signal from the output of the TPC-WIN D/A card supplied with the software.