hackteria

Introduction


This project deals with simple ways to build microscopes out of cheap and easily accessible devices/parts.
A small hack to the optics of a standard webcam allows to create video data, with a magnification of around 100 to 400x (depending on the model and the setup) at a working distance of a few mm. The highest magnifications can be achieved by inverting (putting upside down) the lens. Addition of good lighting by the use of leds allows to create images using a bright-field method (shine through the stuff) or dark field method (shine from the side and look at the reflections and scattering).

Simple Instruction
Step 1: Getting prepared…

Step 2: Play with the lens!

Step 3: Screw the lens, flip the lens, look at a pixel

Step 4: Build a practical and nice setup

Videos
Tardigrade couple recorded with 1.3 Megapixel webcam from TW, 20$

Tardigrade recorded with cheap 0.3 Megapixel webcam from TW, 5$

Blepharisma at highest magnification with cheap 0.3 Megapixel webcam from TW, 5$

Other models and setups
Step 1: Hack the webcam and unsrew the lens

Step 2: Remount the lens with an opaque-black tube and build a setup

Examples of Resolution
HTC HERO, 3,2-Zoll TFT-LCD Touchscreen mit HVGA-Auflösung (320 x 480)
3.2 inch = 81.28 mm
45mm / 320px = 140 micron

Human leukocyte cells (nucleus stain of chromosomes), effects of chromatic aberation

Fluorescent microbeads, diameter 1.8 micrometer

Fun Experiments

Beads of Thermoplastic Polymer from Struers, diameter approx 20-50 micron.

Looking at stuff, tardigrades, butterflies and amoebae…