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Zeiss LSM 710 confocal workstation

Please read the facility policy and contact CMIF to set up an appointment.

The Zeiss LSM 710 laser scanning confocal microscope features a 32-channel linear detector for spectral analysis and two flanking pmts that can be combined to monitor dynamic changes of multiple fluorophores. Modules for advanced confocal applications such as Fluorescence Energy Transfer (FRET), colocalization analysis, and Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP) are available. The multi-time plug in allows automated 3D (x,y,z) or 4 D (x,y,z,t) scans of preprogrammed locations and 3D image stitching. Funding was provided in part by the National Science Foundation (MRI-0821192), the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the NCSU Biotechnology Program and the NCSU Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research.

Image and Video Gallery

See confocal workstation gallery page

Laser Lines for Excitation

  • 405 nm diode laser (for DAPI, ALexa 350)
  • 458 nm, 488 nm, 514 nm multiline argon laser
  • 561 nm diode pumped solid state laser
  • 633 nm HeNe laser

Emission Windows

They can be flexibly selected with 2 flanking photomultiplier (pmt) channels and a 32 channel pmt array. The system can be operated in lambda mode with a 34 channels to collect the entire wavelength range in one scan or in channel mode with up to 10 simultaneously active detection channels that can be adjusted as needed.

Differential Interference Contrast Images

Differential interferrence contrast images can be acquired simultaneously and DIC prisms are available for all objectives except 5x.

Microscope and Accessories

The scanhead is attached to a Zeiss Axio Observer Z1 inverted microscope with motorized, programmable x,y,z stage, joystick and touch panel docking control station. A definite focus attachment corrects for focus drifts during overnight time lapse experiments. Temperature and CO2 control chambers are available.

Objectives

MagnificationN.A. ImmersionTypeNotes
5x0.16 dryPlan-ApochromatOn request
10x0.45 dryPlan-Apochromat
20x0.8 dryPlan-Apochromat
25x0.8 W/oil/glycerin Plan-ApochromatOn request
40x0.75 dryPlan-NeofluarOn request
40x0.95 dryPlan-ApochromatOn request
40x1.1 WC-Apochromat
40x1.3 oilPlan-Neofluar
63x1.4 oilPlan-Apochromat
63x1.2 WC-Apochromat

Additional Resources

Check out the Zeiss educational site to learn more about objective specifications. More information about the instrument can be found on the Zeiss webpage.

Reservation and Rules

Once approved to use the Zeiss LSM 710 confocal independently you can reserve time online by visiting the NC State Lab Management portal. Log in with your unity credentials. Navigate to CMIF and select Zeiss LSM 710. Be aware that the time allowed per appointment and number of appointments may be restricted when the resource is in high demand.  Appointments can be canceled without charge 24 h before start time. If you need to cancel at shorter notice please send an email notification to CMIF. You may be charged for the time reserved during peak time (9am to 5pm).

Please note: The last person signed up for the day is responsible for powering the system off. If you are the last person on the schedule and do not need to use the confocal you still have to come in to switch the system off or find someone else to do it. If you ask someone by email make sure you receive confirmation. Leaving the confocal on overnight will result in a $50 fine.