Olympus Microscope IX3-HOW-2 IX-line Cell Culture Plate Holder
The Olympus Microscope IX3-HOW-2 is a cell culture plate holder designed for use with IX-line inverted microscopes.
Product Overview
The Olympus Microscope IX3-HOW-2 is a cell culture plate holder designed for use with IX-line inverted microscopes. It securely holds standard 6-well, 12-well, and 24-well culture plates during live-cell imaging or routine inspection. The holder maintains plate stability and alignment under the objective, minimizing movement during observation or time-lapse imaging.
- ModelIX3-HOW-2
- CompatibilityOlympus IX-line inverted microscopes
- Mounting typeStage-mounted
- MaterialPolycarbonate
- DesignSingle-use or reusable holder with clamping frame
- Optical clearanceNo obstruction under objective
Key Benefits
- Holds 6-well, 12-well, and 24-well culture plates without shifting during imaging
- Maintains consistent plate positioning for repeatable observations and time-lapse sequences
- Compatible with IX-line inverted microscopes, ensuring proper optical alignment
- Reduces risk of contamination by keeping the plate sealed and stable during handling
- Simplifies workflow by allowing direct placement of plates into the microscope stage
Application Scenarios
- Live-cell imaging in a research lab using time-lapse microscopy on a 24-well plate
- Routine inspection of cell morphology in a 6-well plate during quality control
- Monitoring cell growth and migration in a 12-well plate over multiple days
- Standardized imaging setup in a teaching lab where multiple students use the same plate format
- Integration into a controlled environment chamber where plate stability is critical
Who It Is For
- Research laboratories conducting live-cell imaging and time-lapse studies
- Clinical and pharmaceutical labs performing cell culture quality checks
- University teaching labs using inverted microscopes for cell biology instruction
- Biotechnology companies running high-throughput screening with multi-well plates
- Quality control departments in cell therapy and regenerative medicine
Problems It Solves
- A loose or misaligned plate shifts during imaging, causing focus drift or misregistration in time-lapse sequences
- Manual handling of plates increases the risk of contamination or damage to delicate cultures
- Inconsistent plate positioning leads to variability in image acquisition across different sessions
- Lack of a dedicated holder forces operators to improvise with clips or tape, which can interfere with optics
- No standardized holder for multi-well plates makes it difficult to maintain uniform protocols across users
Technical Features
- Designed specifically for Olympus IX-line inverted microscopes
- Holds 6-well, 12-well, and 24-well standard cell culture plates
- Secure clamping mechanism prevents plate movement during observation
- Optical alignment maintained with the microscope's objective and stage
- Minimal interference with stage movement and focus adjustment
Specifications
| Model | IX3-HOW-2 |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | Olympus IX-line inverted microscopes |
| Mounting type | Stage-mounted |
| Material | Polycarbonate |
| Design | Single-use or reusable holder with clamping frame |
| Optical clearance | No obstruction under objective |
| Stage compatibility | Standard IX-line stage dimensions |
Specifications are taken from the AMADA product data for this item. Confirm critical dimensions with us in writing before ordering.
Customization Options
- Available in standard configuration for 6/12/24-well plates
- No configuration-to-order or OEM assembly offered for this accessory
- No alternative materials or finishes available beyond standard polycarbonate
Comparison With Other Options
| Generic plate holder from third-party supplier | The IX3-HOW-2 is designed to match Olympus IX-line stage dimensions and optical alignment; generic holders may cause misalignment or interfere with focus |
|---|---|
| No holder, using tape or clips to secure plates | Tape or clips can shed particles, interfere with optics, or shift during imaging; the IX3-HOW-2 provides a stable, reusable solution |
| Standard microscope stage without a holder | Without a dedicated holder, plates are prone to movement during long imaging sessions or when adjusting focus |
Use Guide
- Ensure the IX3-HOW-2 is properly seated on the microscope stage before placing the culture plate
- Place the culture plate into the holder with the well side facing up and aligned with the center mark
- Do not over-tighten the clamping mechanism to avoid damaging the plate or distorting the well structure
- Clean the holder after each use with a mild detergent and dry thoroughly before reuse
- Inspect the holder for debris or wear before use, especially in high-throughput or sterile environments
Guides and Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the IX3-HOW-2 compatible with Olympus IX73 or IX83 microscopes?
Yes, the IX3-HOW-2 is compatible with all IX-line inverted microscopes, including the IX73 and IX83, provided they use the standard stage configuration.
Can I use this holder with 96-well plates?
No. The IX3-HOW-2 is designed for 6-well, 12-well, and 24-well plates only. A different holder is required for 96-well formats.
Is the holder autoclavable?
No. The polycarbonate material is not rated for autoclaving. Clean with mild detergent and allow to air dry.
Does the holder affect the optical path?
No. The holder is designed to be optically transparent and does not interfere with the objective or focus.
Can I reuse the holder after cleaning?
Yes. The holder is designed for repeated use. Clean thoroughly after each use to prevent contamination.
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