I know the smear was too thick! I am working on fixing it: oil immersion x100 . It's super easy to set up, and it's half the price of the AM-Scope 20mp one.

Could not get the camera to show a picture

I've stared my microscopy experience by trying to adapt my Sony A7R2 DSLR camera and ran into multiple problems trying to get everything to work, buying parts, hoping they would solve certain problems, which they often did not. So I have decided to go with this option. Having to spend a few hundred dollars was not a perfect scenario, but after it arrived and I hooked it up to my Stellar 1 microscope, it revealed a world of difference.The Swiftcam 25 Megapixel Camera for Microscopes offers a variety of advantages that make it a great choice for microscopy over using a DSLR camera. Here are the key reasons why this camera is a better option and how it compares to using a DSLR:1. Optimized for MicroscopySwiftcam's design: The Swiftcam is specifically engineered for microscopy, so it's designed to integrate seamlessly with your microscope, offering a high-quality digital image with ease of setup. It is equipped with a reduction lens and eyetube adapters, which ensure that the camera is positioned perfectly for capturing high-resolution images through the eyepiece or the optical path of the microscope. A DSLR, on the other hand, isn't optimized for direct attachment to a microscope and often requires additional adapters, which can introduce alignment or focusing issues.DSLR setup: A DSLR camera needs a specialized adapter to mount it on the microscope, and focusing can be more difficult as the camera's lens needs to be manually adjusted to focus on the subject. Also, the field of view may not match the microscope's optics properly.2. High Image Resolution25 Megapixel Resolution: The Swiftcam offers an impressive 25 MP resolution, which is more than enoug, even though my Sony boasts 44 megapixels, delivering extremely high detail in your images (25 megapixels is plenty). This is particularly useful for capturing fine details in specimens, which is crucial in research or documentation of samples.DSLR: While DSLRs also offer high resolutions, their image sensors are not designed for microscope work, so the resulting image quality may not be as optimized as what you would get with a dedicated microscope camera. Additionally, DSLR cameras tend to have larger sensors that may not capture the entire field of view of the microscope's optics, leading to vignetting (darkening of the image corners).3. Ease of Setup and UseSwiftcam Setup: The camera comes with eyetube adapters and a USB 3.0 cable, making it easy to connect to your microscope and computer. The system is typically plug-and-play with Windows, Mac, and Linux, so you don't need to worry about complex configurations or installing additional software. The calibration kit further simplifies the process, allowing you to adjust the camera for optimal image quality.DSLR Setup: Setting up a DSLR with a microscope is much more complex. It usually requires a T-ring adapter or specialized mounts, along with ensuring the camera lens is compatible and aligned with the optical path. Adjusting a DSLR to capture images through a microscope can be time-consuming and less intuitive for most users, especially if you're not experienced with the equipment.4. Software Compatibility and Image ProcessingSwiftcam Software: The camera comes with compatible software that enables you to capture, process, and analyze your images directly on your computer. The software often includes features like image stacking for enhanced depth of field, contrast adjustments, and other microscopy-specific tools.DSLR and Software: While DSLRs also allow for software integration (often through third-party programs), the camera isn't designed for this level of integration with microscopy-specific features. You'll often need additional software and manual processes for image stacking, and achieving the same results can be more complex.5. Real-Time Viewing and RecordingLive Image Feed: The Swiftcam allows for real-time viewing of your specimen on your computer screen, which is critical for tasks like focusing and capturing the best possible image. The USB 3.0 connection allows for fast data transfer, reducing lag and allowing you to see the image almost instantly.DSLR Live View: While DSLRs often have a live view mode, there is typically a noticeable lag between adjusting the microscope and seeing the changes on the camera feed. Plus, DSLR live view modes are usually limited in magnification and may not offer the detailed feedback needed for microscope work.6. Cost-EffectivenessAffordable Solution: A microscope camera like the Swiftcam is often much more affordable than purchasing a high-end DSLR camera. DSLRs with the required lenses and adapters can quickly add up in price, making the Swiftcam a more cost-effective solution for microscopy imaging.DSLR: While a DSLR can be used for a variety of photography needs, a microscope-specific camera like the Swiftcam provides better value for money by being purpose-built for high-quality microscope imaging.7. Compact and ConvenientSize and Weight: The Swiftcam is compact and lightweight, making it easy to attach to most microscopes without disrupting the balance or requiring heavy modifications. This is particularly important for lab environments, where space and ease of handling are crucial.DSLR Size: A DSLR camera is generally larger and heavier, and when mounted on a microscope, it may require additional equipment (like tripods or counterweights) to keep the system stable.Summary: Why Swiftcam Is a Better ChoiceSpecialized for Microscopy: Unlike a DSLR, the Swiftcam is designed with microscopy in mind, offering easy attachment, high-resolution images, and specialized features like reduction lenses, eyetube adapters, and calibration kits.Ease of Use: Swiftcam simplifies the process of capturing high-quality images through a microscope by providing everything you need in a ready-to-use package, including dedicated software for image processing and analysis.Affordability: It offers a cost-effective solution for microscopy imaging, avoiding the high cost and complexity of setting up a DSLR camera system with additional lenses and adapters.In conclusion, the Swiftcam 25 Megapixel Camera is a great choice for microscopy because it is specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with microscopes, offering high-quality, detailed images, easy setup, and efficient use, all at a reasonable price. In comparison, while a DSLR can potentially be used for microscopy, it requires more complex setup and is not optimized for the unique needs of microscope imaging. This is the one for me. Seems like I will be good for a few years.

I bought this to go with a Swift microscope. The microscope has a 5mp camera, but I wanted something better. I installed the software and the expensive 25mp camera won’t work. It isn’t even recognized by the software. The 5mp works just fine. I reached out to them, they had me uninstall and reinstall install the software. Camera still won’t work. It doesn’t even show up as an option. The 5mp shows up right away. I’ve reached back out to tech support, but haven’t heard back. This is exceptionally frustrating.