Until September, the members of the Microscope Committee bid you welcome and wish you well. All objectives should be parfocal within 10-20 microns. Spring-loaded 40X and 100X objectives are highly recommended. This should fully and evenly illuminate the field as seen through the 2.5-5X objective. Binocular , preferably 10X, with a pointer.
Sturdy microscope stand with focusing elements and fittings in good mechanical condition.
Mechanical stage, calibrated or uncalibrated. A mechanical stage can be attached to most used or old microscopes. Apochromats are very expensive and unnecessary except for photographic and research applications. Wide field, high eye-point oculars, while worthwhile for all, are especially useful to those who normally wear glasses. When a new microscope is purchased, liberal arrangements should be made for the replacement of any defective parts and for refund of the purchase price if the instrument is generally unsatisfactory.