The transmitted mode functions the same as that of a conventional light microscope with samples being viewed by bright field, darkfield, phase contrast and differential interference contrast. All three of these modes take advantage of the digital image format and the image processing capabilities of the confocal computer. Images may be annotated on screen with labels, arrows, scale bars and measurements. The images may be printed on color laser or dye-sublimation printers or to 35mm film. Confocal Theory Focused laser beam is scanned across sample.
Laser excites fluorescence emission from within labeled sample.
Only light from the plane of focus is allowed to pass the detector aperture and be digitized by the photomultiplier. A pixel of the appropriate brightness is stored in memory and displayed on the monitor. Commonly Used Fluorescent Probes General Almost any fluorescent probe that is excited by visible light can be imaged on our confocals. However, there are visible light dye options for most traditional UV excited probes.