CoolLED Light Sources

BioVision Technologies offers the following microscope illumination products from CoolLED Ltd.:

CoolLED Logo

pE-4000

The pE-4000 sets the standard as the universal illumination system for fluorescence microscopy. The system has 16 selectable LED wavelengths across four channels that can be finely controlled and matched to the filters and fluorophores of almost any microscope, making it the broadest and most versatile illumination system available.

The CoolLED pE-4000 benefits from CoolLED‘s award‐winning sustainable Green technology and delivers enhanced irradiance at the sample plane with a significant reduction in energy consumption, and is supplied with a 36‐month warranty.

Advanced control for cutting-edge research

Multiple levels of control are possible, from simple to advanced. A dual‐mode control pod gives immediate manual control in either White or Advanced modes, where individual LED channels can be individually switched on/off or irradiance modulated.

Alternatively, the USB interface and integration into major microscopy software platforms allows complex software control.

TTL control enables capturing high-speed events (<1 ms). Since there is no shutter or filter wheel, without these moving parts, this reduced latency means speed is limited only by the camera. An expansion box is also available for added functionality via multiple BNC connections for remote analog control of irradiance and TTL on/off control.

For optogenetics applications, alongside the ability to include excitation filters to tune the wavelength to the opsin’s maximum activation peak, an internal function generator controls pulse timing and waveforms.

Improving cell viability

With the pE-4000, it is now possible to prevent artefacts and allow live samples to thrive in experiments longer than 100 hours. Fine control of illumination timing and irradiance with TTL and the function generator minimises exposure, avoiding photobleaching and phototoxicity.

Matching diverse fluorophore requirements

Full filter compatibility and 256 wavelength combinations from 16 installed LED’s (365 nm -770 nm) covers all available fluorophores, which is ideal for multi-user facilities or evolving experimental needs.

Multi-channel experiments with no pixel shift

Up to four channels using distinct wavelengths can be captured with no mechanical movement, preventing pixel shift and allowing the direct comparison of data as in the following experiment:

Multi-channel experiment with no pixel shift
  1. Representative photocurrent traces of a PhobosCA expressing CA1 cell evoked with different activation wavelengths and shutoff with 595 nm light.
  2. Photocurrent traces in the same cell evoked with 460 nm light and shutoff with indicated wavelengths (10 mW/mm2).

Wietek, J., Rodriguez-Rozada, S., Tutas, J. et al. Anion-conducting channelrhodopsins with tuned spectra and modified kinetics engineered for optogenetic manipulation of behavior. Sci Rep 7, 14957 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-14330-y

Increased power efficiency

The pE-4000 includes 16 LEDs grouped into four individually controllable channels, and this unique Wavelength Grouping Concept makes it possible to deliver more power in an efficient four-channel system. As the first company to introduce LED microscope lighting for fluorescence microscopy, CoolLED has developed a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of configuring and selecting filter sets for experiments using multiple fluorophores. CoolLED’s innovation comes from recognising that all the fluorophores used in multi-band work can have their absorption bands divided into four separate groups across the spectrum due to the restricted bandwidth available.

Multi-channel experiment with no pixel shift Multi-channel experiment with no pixel shift

DAPI/FITC/TRITC/Cy5 Quad filter excited by pE-4000 at matched wavelengths shown above

A choice of 16 LED’s enables the user to select the optimal excitation wavelength for each fluorophore combination and optical filter configuration, which enables maximum performance and flexibility.

CoolLED pE-4000 Wavelength Grouping

CoolLED pE-4000 Wavelength Grouping

Performance Features

Feature
Broadest LED spectrum available: 365-770nm, with 16 LED’s
Four channel wavelength-grouping design matches most commercially available dual, triple, and quad filters
Removable inline excitation filter holders: no moving parts for fast acquisition
Internal function generator for electrophysiology and optogenetics applications
TTL and USB interfaces with major imaging software packages allows incorporation into all experimental parameters
Analog inputs for dynamic irradiance control
Individual control of selected LED wavelengths reduces background
Rapid switching between LED wavelengths enables capture of high-speed events
Instant on/off: No shutters required, no warm up or cool down
Stable and repeatable: reliable and consistent results
Precise irradiance control in 1% steps (0–100%): no neutral density filters required

Convenience Features

Feature
Pre-sets allow lab manager to match white spectrum to existing filter cubes
Simple to fit, simple to use: no alignment, a once‐only adjustment
Wide range of microscope adaptors: fits most microscopes

Control

Mode Description
Manual Dual‐function remote manual control pod for White mode or Advanced mode
Remote Via USB for independent on/off and intensity control of each channel. Triggering speed approx. 10–20 ms
Via 4 TTL inputs for independent on/off control of each channel. Triggering speed <20 µs
Via single TTL for on/off control of manual or software‐selected channels
Via 4 analog inputs 0–10V, 0–300kHz for dynamic control of intensity from external analog signals
Sync Out 4 TTL outputs for each channel – active high
1 TTL output for any channel – active high
Programmable Interface 4 TTL outputs for on/off control of peripherals (transmitted illuminators, stages etc.).
4 analog outputs for irradiance control of peripherals (can be programmed to mirror LED irradiance levels for channel control) 0–10 V full scale
Function Generator Internally‐generated sine, pulse and ramps for each channel, programmed via control pod.
Connectivity Connection to PC is USB 2.0 Type B.
All other TTL and Analog inputs/outputs via DB‐25 female connector. Optional rear‐mounting pE-Expansion Box available for BNC connectivity
Imaging Software Supported by leading imaging software including MetaMorph, MetaFluor, MetaVue, iVision‐Mac

Light delivery

The pE-4000 can be configured to deliver light to the microscope via liquid light guide or fiber. Liquid light guides can be used in conjunction with CoolLED’s pE-Universal Collimator which can accept a microscope adaptor from CoolLED’s extensive range.

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Power Requirements 110–240V AC. 50/60Hz
Power Consumption Standby (no LEDs active) Maximum 7W
Single‐wavelength Operation Maximum 25W
Dual‐wavelength Operation Maximum 44W
Triple‐wavelength Operation Maximum 53W
Quad‐wavelength Operation Maximum 60W
Dimensions, W×D×H Light Source 150×220×260 mm
Control Pod 154×135×40 mm
Power Supply 164×64×35 mm
Expansion Box 151×18×95 mm
Weight Light Source 3.5 kg
Control Pod 0.95 kg
Power Supply 0.58 kg
Expansion Box 0.34 kg
Environment and Safety Mercury‐free and laser-free
Energy‐efficient
Long lifetime
No bulb replacements
Reduced risk of eye damage
Quiet operation
No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months

Spectral data

CoolLED pE-4000 spectrum
CoolLED pE-4000 spectrum

CoolLED is often asked about the power, intensity or irradiance of CoolLED Illumination Systems. The answer is not as simple as you might believe from many websites and data sheets, and it can be difficult to compare data from these sources as measuring set ups differ.

Photons are also lost as light travels from the light source to sample plane. The only way to objectively compare light sources is by measuring irradiance at the sample plane. To understand why CoolLED uses the term irradiance and how to measure and compare light sources with accuracy and precision, read their white paper.

Please contact us with further questions or to request performance data.

Specifications

Power Values
Channel Wavelength Power Full Width at Half Maximum
Channel 1 365 nm 30 mW 10 nm
385 nm 101 mW 10 nm
405 nm 188 mW 18 nm
435 nm 170 mW 17 nm
Channel 2 460 nm 241 mW 20 nm
470 nm 167 mW 20 nm
490 nm 87 mW 31 nm
500 nm 58 mW 29 nm
Channel 3 525 nm 35 mW 31 nm
550 nm 245 mW 85 nm
580 nm 236 mW 85 nm
595 nm 37 mW 15 nm
Channel 4 635 nm 136 mW 16 nm
660 nm 193 mW 19 nm
740 nm 76 mW 39 nm
770 nm 18 mW 53 nm

Powers measured at sample plane of research grade microscope using 100% mirror in cube and 10× objectives. (Figures are typical values).

Note: wavelength settings 550nm and 580nm use single broad, high intensity peak; see spectrum for further information

Other Specifications
Parameter Specification
Power Requirements 110–240V AC. 50/60Hz, 2.5A
Power Consumption Standby (no LEDs active) Maximum 7W
Single‐wavelength Operation Maximum 41W
Dual‐wavelength Operation Maximum 75W
Triple‐wavelength Operation Maximum 93W
Quad‐wavelength Operation Maximum 112W
Dimensions, W×D×H Light Source 150×220×260 mm
Control Pod 154×135×40 mm
Power Supply 164×64×35 mm
Expansion Box 151×18×95 mm
Weight Light Source 3.5 kg
Control Pod 0.95 kg
Power Supply 0.58 kg
Expansion Box 0.34 kg
Environment and Safety Mercury‐free
No bulb replacement needed
Long lifetime (25,000 operating hours)
No special disposal regulations or issues
Reduced risk of eye damage
Energy‐efficient: 80% less power than conventional illuminators
Quiet operation
CoolLED pE-4000 light source and control pod
CoolLED pE-4000 light source and control pod

pE-800

The pE-800 gives LEDs center stage as the widefield illumination method of choice. Featuring eight individually controllable LEDs and lightning fast TTL switching, the pE-800 delivers the highest quality data with minimum total cost of ownership. Versatile, intuitive and backed by CoolLED’s world-renowned support and a 36-month warranty, the pE-800 with liquid light guide delivery makes next generation LED illumination accessible to all.

Eight powerful and efficient LEDs offer broad spectral coverage from 365-740 nm for use with fluorophores ranging from DAPI to Cy7. The choice of fluorophore is no longer limited by the light source, and choosing the optimal set for each application has never been easier – even as requirements evolve over time.

CoolLED pE-800 light source and universal collimator
CoolLED pE-800 light source and universal collimator

Mix and match with eight channels

Eight powerful and efficient LEDs offer broad spectral coverage from 365-740 nm for use with fluorophores ranging from DAPI to Cy7. The choice of fluorophore is no longer limited by the light source, and choosing the optimal set for each application has never been easier – even as requirements evolve over time.

CoolLED pE-800 Spectrum
pE-800 Spectrum

All eight channels can be individually controlled, with each LED selected to perfectly match the selected fluorophores. Excitation filters with white light sources let through more unwanted light, and by matching the LED this improves the signal to noise ratio for contrast-rich images revealing finer details and more information.

Capture high-speed events

Industry-leading <7 µs TTL triggering is a breakthrough for live cell imaging. Capturing dynamic events is possible with the highest temporal resolution and even without software, thanks to precise hardware synchronization via TTL input for each channel and compatibility with the pE-6501-8 (USB‐controlled TTL Conversion Kit).

CoolLED pE-800 TTL Triggering
CoolLED pE-800 TTL Triggering

The ability to fit inline excitation filters capitalizes on TTL trigger speeds, as single-band excitation filters can be installed for each channel. When used alongside multi-band filters, for example in a Pinkel configuration, this removes the need for expensive external filter wheels and overcomes the latency restrictions of mechanical movement, presenting a low-cost approach to high-speed imaging.

CoolLED pE-800-Excitation-filter-holder
CoolLED pE-800-Excitation-filter-holder

Affordable automation with Sequence Runner

The popular Sequence Runner program takes speed one step further and combines the versatility of software with the <7 µs speeds of TTL, with minimal requirement for expensive electronic hardware. Once an LED and irradiance sequence are specified in software, Sequence Runner provides lightning fast synchronised triggering via the global TTL-in of the pE-800 and a single TTL-out from a camera (or other hardware).

The pE-800 is unique in offering the only eight-channel Sequence Runner available, and when combined with inline filters, transforms a manual microscope into an affordable and powerful eight-channel automated imaging system. As laboratory budgets become stretched, the pE-800 presents the ideal cost-effective Illumination System which makes high-end LED technology more accessible to life science researchers.

Protecting your samples

Tight hardware synchronization not only increases temporal resolution, but also means samples are exposed only during acquisition, protecting against photobleaching and phototoxicity and pushing the boundaries of time-lapse studies.

Live samples can be further protected by balancing the irradiance to the lowest level possible while still maintaining image quality, with fine (0.1%) control from 0-2%, and in 1% steps up to 100%. The more life-like a cell's behavior, the more valuable the resulting data.

Intuitive Software Control

Standalone software control is achieved through a fast USB 2.0 connection and the user-friendly LightBridge Graphical User Interface (GUI), where control options include:

  • On/off control
  • LED selection
  • Real‐time irradiance control
  • Sequence Runner
  • Save and load pre‐sets
  • pE-800 start‐up settings
  • Analog settings

In addition to LightBridge, full integration into MetaMorph, MetaFluor, and Micro-Manager imaging software is available.

CoolLED pE-800 LightBridge User Interface
CoolLED pE-800 LightBridge User Interface

Beyond Imaging

Eight individual analog inputs allow irradiance to be controlled from 0–100% for each channel via analog signal (0–10 V), which is ideal for electrophysiology and optogenetics applications.

Fit to your microscope

The compact system is compatible with the majority of microscope models. Liquid light guide delivery offers flexible placement.

Sustainable illumination

The compact pE-800 Illumination System builds on award-winning CoolLED technology, with stable and reliable performance and ultra-low power consumption. The sustainability benefits go beyond energy efficiency, and by removing the need for toxic mercury, the pE-800 is a natural choice for cleaner, greener labs.

Features and Benefits

Feature Benefit
Eight selectable channels Offers versatility with any channels selectable simultaneously at 100%
Individual control of selected LED wavelengths Reduces background noise
Broad spectrum from 365-740 nm Covers DAPI-Cy7
Industry-leading <7 µs TTL triggering High-speed imaging
Sequence Runner Software control with speed of TTL
Removable inline excitation filter holders: no moving parts High-speed imaging
Software, TTL, analog control options Optimized illumination
Irradiance control in 1% steps (2 to 100%) and fine control from 0–2% Optimized control
Light delivery via Liquid Light Guide Maximum compatibility

Control

Scheme Specifics
CoolLED LightBridge GUI
  • Connects via USB, allows:
  • On/Off control
  • LED selection
  • Real‐time irradiance control
  • Sequence runner
  • Saving and loading of pre-sets
  • pE-800 start‐up settings
  • Analog settings
  • Triggering speed is specific to computer and operating system
TTL and analog
  • 8 TTL inputs allow independent on/off control of each channel
  • 8 analog inputs 0–10 V, 0–50 kHz for dynamic control of irradiance from external analog signals
  • Global TTL for on/off synchronization to camera
  • Triggering speed <7 µs
Sequence runner
  • Combines software control with the speed of TTL while requiring minimal electronic hardware
  • Allows LED sequences and irradiance to be programmed via LightBridge
  • Sequences are controlled via global TTL from a single TTL input such as from a camera TTL out or other external hardware
Connectivity
  • USB 2 for connection to controlling computer
  • TTL and analog inputs via BNC‘s or SMB connectors

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Light delivery
  • Light delivery via the standard 3 mm liquid light guide keeps the source of illumination remote from the microscope
  • Optional pE-Universal Collimator and microscope adaptor are available
Ultraviolet emission wavelength For optimum DAPI excitation, the pE-800 is available with a 365 nm or 400 nm LED for compatibility with existing filter sets
Power requirements 100–240 V a.c., 50 or 60 Hz
Power consumption
  • Maximum power consumption: 127 W
  • Maximum power consumption when on standby: 6.4 W
Dimensions, (W×D×H) Light Source 173×247×174 mm
Power Supply 164×64×35 mm
Universal Collimator 44×86×44 mm
Weight Light Source 3.51 kg
Power Supply 0.58 kg
Universal Collimator 0.17 kg
Environment and safety
  • Benefits of a CoolLED product:
  • Mercury‐free and laser‐free
  • Energy‐efficiency
  • Long lifetime
  • No bulb replacements required
  • Reduced risk of eye damage
  • Quiet operation
  • No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months

Spectral data

CoolLED pE-800 spectrum
CoolLED pE-800 spectrum

CoolLED is often asked about the power, intensity or irradiance of CoolLED Illumination Systems. The answer is not as simple as you might believe from many websites and data sheets, and it can be difficult to compare data from these sources as measuring set ups differ.

Photons are also lost as light travels from the light source to sample plane. The only way to objectively compare light sources is by measuring irradiance at the sample plane. To understand why CoolLED uses the term irradiance and how to measure and compare light sources with accuracy and precision, read their white paper.

Please contact us with further questions or to request performance data.

Images

Primary neuron from a rat cortex – supplied by BrainBits (CoolLED pE-800)
Primary neuron from a rat cortex – supplied by BrainBits (CoolLED pE-800)
Bovine pulmonary epithelial cells. (CoolLED pE-800)
Bovine pulmonary epithelial cells (CoolLED pE-800)

pE-800fura

Building on the successful pE-800 Illumination System, CoolLED’s pE-800fura offers the most comprehensive calcium imaging system available. It also enhances a range of applications from pH monitoring and optogenetics to everyday fluorescence microscopy, combining lightning-fast switching with eight individually controllable channels. Backed by CoolLED’s world-renowned support and generous warranty, the pE-800fura presents the go-to illuminator for calcium imaging and beyond.

Eight powerful and efficient LEDs offer spectral coverage from 340-635 nm, tailored to Fura-2, as well as fluorophores for everyday fluorescence ranging from DAPI to Cy5.

Individually controlling all eight channels is achieved via USB, TTL or analog for easily matching each LED to the selected calcium indicator or fluorophore set.

Unlike lasers, the broader spectral output of LED‘s can be refined by the use of optical filters in order to excite a range of dyes, expanding the coverage of the pE-800fura. The ability to customise the wavelength output with both wavelength switching and optical filters means experiments are no longer limited by the light source, even as requirements evolve or new dyes emerge in the future.

Offering high-speed wavelength selection across the spectrum, the pE-800fura presents the first direct LED upgrade to traditional monochromator solutions with all the benefits of LED illumination.

We’ve got you covered: Unlike narrow-band illuminators such as lasers, broader LED wavelengths can be optimized with optical filters to excite a range of fluorophores. Suitable LED‘s are shown for each fluorophore below, and we can recommend the best optical filters.

Applications, Methods, Fluorophores, and Suitable pE-800fura LED’s

Application / Method Fluorophore Suitable LED
Calcium imaging (ratiometric) Fura-2 340 and 380
Calcium imaging (Single wavelength) Calcium Green 500
GCaMP 470
Indo-1 340 or 380
Fluo-3 470 or 500
Fluo-4 470 or 500
Rhod-3 550
Ratiometric pH imaging BCECF 435 and 500
SNARF 550 and 580
pHrodo Green 550
pHrodo Red 580
Optogenetic stimulation Channelrhodopsins:  
ChR2 470
ChR2/H134 470
ReaChR 580
Halorhodopsins:  
Jaws 635
Halo/NpHR 580
FRET CFP and YFP 435 and 500
BFP and GFP 380 and 470
GFP and DsRed 470 and 550
FITC and Texas Red 470 and 580
Cy3 and Cy5 550 and 635
Standard fluorescence microscopy DAPI 340 or 380
Hoechst 380
CFP 435
GFP 470
FITC 470
TRITC 550
Cy3 550
DsRed 550
mCherry 580
Texas Red 580
Cy3 635

Accelerating calcium analysis

Industry-leading <7 µs TTL triggering is a breakthrough for ratiometric fluorescence applications such as calcium measurements, maximising the accuracy of measuring ratio pairs. For live cell imaging, capturing dynamic events is possible with the highest temporal resolution and even without software, thanks to precise hardware synchronization via TTL input for each channel and compatibility with the pE-6501-8-FR (USB‐controlled TTL trigger box).

CoolLED pE-800fura TTL Triggering
CoolLED pE-800fura TTL Triggering

Even optical filtering is optimised for speed, with the simplicity of fitting single-band excitation filters at each LED channel avoiding the use of moving parts.

When used alongside multi-band filters, for example in a Pinkel configuration, this removes the need for slow and expensive external filter wheels and presents a low-cost approach to high-speed imaging.

CoolLED pE-800-Excitation-filter-holder
CoolLED pE-800-Excitation-filter-holder

Affordable automation with Sequence Runner

The popular Sequence Runner program takes speed one step further and combines the versatility of software with the <7 µs speeds of TTL, with minimal requirement for expensive electronic hardware. All you need is a TTL out. Once an LED and irradiance sequence are specified in software, Sequence Runner provides lightning fast synchronised triggering via the global TTL-in of the pE-800fura and a single TTL-out from a camera (or other hardware).

When combined with inline filters, the pE-800fura transforms a manual microscope into an affordable and powerful eight-channel automated system for calcium imaging, ratiometric assays and everyday fluorescence.

Protecting live samples

Photodamage can have a serious impact on live cell data, and the pE-800fura has been carefully designed to overcome this, protecting samples and helping researchers generate the highest quality data.

Industry-leading <7 µs hardware synchronisation protects against photobleaching and phototoxicity by restricting sample exposure to image acquisition. Balancing irradiance to the lowest level possible while still maintaining image quality is another approach for reducing photodamage, and the pE-800fura simplifies this with fine irradiance control from 0-2%, and in 1% steps up to 100%.

Not everyone realises that excitation filters can still leak unwanted light, reducing the signal-to-noise ratio. The ability to select a single LED channel overcomes this, and has the added benefit of allowing a lower concentration of dyes such as Fura-2, which improves cell health and viability due to reduced toxicity – and also reduces reagent cost.

These factors not only improve data quality, but also push the boundaries of time-lapse studies.

Intuitive Software Control

Standalone software control is achieved through a fast USB 2.0 connection and the user-friendly LightBridge Graphical User Interface (GUI), where control options include:

  • On/off control
  • LED selection
  • Real‐time irradiance control
  • Sequence Runner
  • Save and load pre‐sets
  • pE-800fura start‐up settings
  • Analog settings

In addition to LightBridge, full integration into MetaMorph, MetaFluor, and Micro-Manager imaging software is available.

CoolLED pE-800 LightBridge User Interface
CoolLED pE-800 LightBridge User Interface

Ideal for optogenetics and electrophysiology

Eight individual analog inputs allow automated high-speed irradiance controlled from 0–100% for each channel via analog signal (0–10 V). This is ideal for many fluorescece applications as well as electrophysiology and optogenetics.

High irradiance, low energy

The laser-free pE-800fura Illumination System builds on award-winning CoolLED technology, with stable and reliable performance and ultra-lower power consumption at 127 W. The sustainability benefits go beyond energy efficiency, and by removing the need for toxic mercury, the pE-800fura is a natural choice for cleaner, greener fluorescence microscopy.

Fit to your microscope

The compact system is compatible with the majority of microscope models. Liquid light guide delivery offers flexible placement.

Features and Benefits

Feature Benefit
Broad spectrum from 340-635 nm Tailored to popular calcium indicators and fluorophores
Eight selectable channels Offers versatility with any channels selectable simultaneously at 100%
Industry-leading <7 µs TTL triggering High-speed imaging
Affordable automation via Sequence Runner and single TTL out Software control with speed of TTL
Removable inline excitation filter holders: no moving parts High-speed imaging
Software, TTL, analog control options Optimized illumination
Irradiance control in 1% steps (2 to 100%) and fine control from 0–2% Optimized control
Light delivery via Liquid Light Guide Maximum compatibility
Stable Illumination Minimizes noise for precise calcium analysis and reduced false positives
High signal-to-noise ratio Delivers crisp images and quality data with less calcium indicator, reducing toxicity and cost
UV‐optimized optics Maximizes irradiance for Fura-2 and similar indicators

Control

Scheme Specifics
CoolLED LightBridge GUI
  • Connects via USB, allows:
  • On/Off control
  • LED selection
  • Real‐time irradiance control
  • Sequence Runner
  • Saving and loading of pre-sets
  • pE-800fura start‐up settings
  • Analog settings
  • Triggering speed is specific to computer and operating system
TTL and analog
  • 8 TTL inputs allow independent on/off control of each channel
  • 8 analog inputs 0–10 V, 0–50 kHz for dynamic control of irradiance from external analog signals
  • Global TTL for on/off synchronization to camera
  • Triggering speed <7 µs
Sequence Runner
  • Combines software control with the speed of TTL while requiring minimal electronic hardware
  • Allows LED sequences and irradiance to be programmed via LightBridge or compatible imaging software
  • Sequences are controlled via global TTL from a single TTL input such as from a camera TTL out, therefore requiring minimal electronic hardware
Connectivity
  • USB 2 for connection to controlling computer
  • TTL and analog inputs via BNC’s or SMB connectors

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Light delivery
  • Light delivery via the standard 3 mm liquid light guide keeps the source of illumination remote from the microscope
  • Optional pE-Universal Collimator and microscope adaptor are available
Power requirements 100–240 V a.c., 50 or 60 Hz
Power consumption
  • Maximum: 127 W
  • Maximum when on standby: 6.4 W
Dimensions, W×D×H Light Source 173×247×174 mm
Power Supply 164×64×35 mm
Universal Collimator 44×86×44 mm
Weight Light Source 3.51 kg
Power Supply 0.58 kg
Universal Collimator 0.17 kg
Environment and safety
  • Benefits of a CoolLED product:
  • Mercury‐free and laser‐free
  • Energy‐efficiency
  • Long lifetime
  • No bulb replacements required
  • Reduced risk of eye damage
  • Quiet operation
  • No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months

Spectral data

CoolLED pE-800fura spectrum
CoolLED pE-800fura spectrum

CoolLED is often asked about the power, intensity or irradiance of CoolLED Illumination Systems. The answer is not as simple as you might believe from many websites and data sheets, and it can be difficult to compare data from these sources as measuring set ups differ.

Photons are also lost as light travels from the light source to sample plane. The only way to objectively compare light sources is by measuring irradiance at the sample plane. To understand why CoolLED uses the term irradiance and how to measure and compare light sources with accuracy and precision, read their white paper.

Please contact us with further questions or to request performance data.

pE-340fura

Utilizing the successful pE-300 Series platform, CoolLED’s pE-340fura is a bespoke LED Illuminator for Fura-2 ratiometric calcium imaging, which also supports everyday fluorescence microscopy in a compact and affordable package.

The 340nm and 380nm LED illumination system provides the optimum excitation wavelengths for Fura-2-based calcium imaging allowing high-precision, stable, high-throughput imaging with video-rate time resolution.

High-speed acquisition

Until recently, the response time of illumination systems for Fura-2 imaging has been limited to milliseconds due to mechanical switching of the wavelengths in arc lamp and monochromator systems. However, the new pE-340fura can be controlled via convenient BNC TTL connections for precise illumination control in as little as 20 microseconds.

Improved cell viability and cost

Using the new pE-340fura LED Illumination System, less Fura-2 dye can be loaded into the cells while maintaining the same measured calcium concentration and good signal-to-noise ratio. The reduction in required dye not only improves cell viability due to reduced dye toxicity, but also results in a cost reduction per experiment.

Improved signal‐to‐noise

Work by Sandrine Prost et al. of the University of Edinburgh has shown that with independent wavelength controllable LED sources, signal-to-noise is dramatically improved over bulb systems and even over some available white broad-spectrum LED sources.

High levels of autofluorescence and fast photobleaching of specific fluorescence when illuminating Qdots with Metal Halide
High levels of autofluorescence and fast photobleaching of specific fluorescence when illuminating Qdots with Metal Halide

FFPE section stained with Qdot 655 was imaged successively using mercury bulb, LED405 & Metal Halide source. The images are intensity images at 655 nm. Red arrows: specific 655 fluorescence; green arrows: autofluorescence. The image taken with the first exposure to LED405 nm illumination. (LED405 (1)) shows the specific staining with little autofluorescence when the section is illuminated with LED 405nm. Metal halide exposure led to high level autofluorescence and fast photobleaching of the specific fluorescence, confirmed with a second set of images with LED 405nm (LED405 (2)). Similar results were obtained with all other Qdots.

The above figure is taken from Prost S, Kishen REB, Kluth DC, Bellamy COC (2016) Choice of Illumination System & Fluorophore for Multiplex Immunofluorescence on FFPE Tissue Sections. PLoS ONE 11(9): e0162419.

The images below show a field of cardiac myocytes (heart cells). The cells were loaded with Fura-2 using standard conditions (i.e. incubation with 2 micromolar Fura-2 acetoxymethyl ester for 30 minutes, followed by an additional 30 minutes for de-esterification).

CoolLED pE-340 340 nm excitation
340nm Excitation
CoolLED CoolLED pE-340 380 nm excitation
380nm Excitation

These images were obtained by Martin Bootman and Katja Rietdorf, School of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences, The Open University, UK.

Performance Features

Feature Benefit
Dedicated 340 nm and 380 nm outputs Provides for Fura-2 ratiometric calcium imaging
Broad white output (435–645 nm) Provides for imaging standard fluorophores
Microsecond switching (340/380) For capturing high-speed events
Stable LED illumination Minimises noise below that of experiment, reducing false positives and increasing precision
Higher signal-to-noise Gives cleaner images and data while requiring less Fura-2 dye, reducing toxicity and costs
UV‐optimized optics Delivers maximum irradiance on standard microscope configurations
Individual channel triggering via TTL in microseconds More rapid acquisition
Removable inline excitation filter holders No moving parts for fast acquisition
Sequence Runner — Sequenced excitation from a single TTL-out Simple control, triggered by camera or other source
Individual channel selection controls the level of excitation of each dye independently on a multi-stained sample Flexible acquisition
Compatible with most imaging software for integrated control with imaging set up Suited to advanced acquisition protocols
Precise irradiance control in 1% steps (0–100%) No neutral density filters required

Convenience Features

Feature Benefit
Specify for use with existing single and multi-band filter sets No need to buy new filters
Simple to fit, simple to use No alignment, a once‐only adjustment
Wide range of microscope adaptors Fits most microscopes

Control

Mode Description
Manual Manual control for instant on/off and intensity control in 1% steps from 0‐100%. Individual bands can be selected/deselected and controlled independently as desired.
Remote Via USB for independent on/off and intensity control of each channel.
Via global and individual channel TTL for on/off control of selected channels, using a BNC on the light source. Triggering speed <20 µs at full power
Sequence Runner Single TTL input to step through user‐defined sequence. Triggering speed <20 µs at full power
Connectivity Connection to PC is USB 2.0 Type B.
Imaging Software Supported by leading imaging software including MetaMorph, MetaFluor, MetaVue, iVision‐Mac

Configurations

Configuration Specifics
Direct-fit Higher irradiance is possible when directly connecting to a microscope. Select from a range of microscope adaptors which covers all current and most older models. A simple once-only adjustment will allow optimisation to the optical path of the microscope.
Liquid Light Guide If there is a need to keep the source of illumination remote from the microscope, the Liquid Light Guide variant is available for use with a 3 mm diameter Liquid Light Guide. An optional pE-340fura Universal Collimator can be specified in conjunction with a microscope adaptor, containing optics optimized to transmit the 340 nm. A light source stand for the pE-340fura is included with the Liquid Light Guide configuration.

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Power requirements 100–240 V a.c., 50 or 60 Hz
Power consumption
  • Maximum: 127 W
  • Maximum when on standby: 6.4 W
Dimensions (W×D×H) Light Source 77×186×162 mm
Control Pod 88×125×37 mm
Power Supply 167×67×35 mm
Universal Collimator 44×86×44 mm
Weight Light Source 1.40 kg
Control Pod 0.32 kg
Power Supply 0.62 kg
Universal Collimator 0.17 kg
Environment and safety
  • Benefits of a CoolLED product:
  • Mercury‐free and laser‐free
  • Energy‐efficiency
  • Long lifetime
  • No bulb replacements required
  • Reduced risk of eye damage
  • Quiet operation
  • No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months; the 340 nm LED is warranteed for 3000 hours accumulated use

Spectral data

CoolLED pE-340fura spectrum
CoolLED pE-340fura spectrum

CoolLED is often asked about the power, intensity or irradiance of CoolLED Illumination Systems. The answer is not as simple as you might believe from many websites and data sheets, and it can be difficult to compare data from these sources as measuring set ups differ.

Photons are also lost as light travels from the light source to sample plane. The only way to objectively compare light sources is by measuring irradiance at the sample plane. To understand why CoolLED uses the term irradiance and how to measure and compare light sources with accuracy and precision, read their white paper.

Please contact us with further questions or to request performance data.

pE-300ultra

CoolLED’s pE-300ultra is a fluorescence microscopy light source which offers intense, broad-spectrum LED illumination for imaging most common fluorescent fluorophores. Fast events can be captured with microsecond switching via multiple TTL inputs, and the ability to mount inline excitation filters allows fast, flexible filter configurations. This, when paired with today’s high performance multi band filter sets, facilitates imaging traditionally done via a white light source and a filter wheel, with all the benefits of LED’s.

LED technology is quickly evolving, and since 2017 CoolLED’s new generation has double the irradiance at the sample plane, and for even higher irradiance is available as a Direct Fit model (which also reduces the cost to buy and run thanks to fewer consumables). With ACT Label certification, it is even an environmentally friendly option for illumination.

The pE-300ultra is the most controllable member of the pE-300 Series. In addition to the many features of the pE-300lite and the pE-300white, the System offers precise control over wavelength intensity and shuttering. Until now these benefits have only been accessible to users of high end, highly flexible illuminators such as the CoolLED pE-4000.

It allows adjustment of output in 1% steps, giving precise control. The broad spectrum covers everyday fluorophores: DAPI, CFP, Aqua, FITC, TRITC, TxRed, Cy5 and many more.

Direct fit or liquid light guide

There are two pE-300ultra configuration options: direct fit or liquid light guide. The Direct Fit variant delivers higher irradiance and reduces the cost to buy and run thanks to fewer consumables.

Comparing Irradiance Between Direct Fit and Liquid Light Guide Illumination Systems
Comparing Irradiance Between Direct Fit and Liquid Light Guide Illumination Systems

For confocal microscopes, the Liquid Light Guide model offers the ideal replacement to a metal halide light source, minimizing photobleaching and phototoxicity when viewing samples before scanning. More information on the available variants can be found under specifications.

Capturing high-speed events

The pE-300ultra offers triggering from multiple TTL inputs which, coupled with the ability to mount inline excitation filters, provides microsecond switching of pre-filtered excitation light. When paired with today’s high performance multi-band filter sets, this facilitates imaging traditionally done using a white light source and a filter wheel, with all the benefits of LED’s, and most excitingly at speeds not previously so affordable. For live cell imaging applications, events can now be captured that might previously have been missed. CoolLED's white paper compares the benefits and trade-offs of different possible illumination configurations.

pE300ultra light diagram, no filter wheel required
pE-300ultra Light Diagram, No Filter Wheel Required

Fast multi-channel imaging

Fluorophores can be viewed either individually or in combination, without filter cube changes. This makes the pE-300ultra ideal for use with multi-band filter sets as the screening process can be simplified when fewer filter cubes are used. Independent control of the three LED channels means that the user can control the level of excitation of each fluorophore independently on a multi-stained sample, potentially removing the need for single-band filter sets altogether.

Sequence runner for multi-channel excitation

It is now possible to run through a sequence of excitation channels using a camera or other external hardware which has only a single TTL-out, thanks to the Sequence Runner mode. Complex illumination protocols can now be run at high speeds and without the need specialised and costly hardware. The order of each fluorophore to be captured is defined via the simple Control Pod, with the pE-300ultra Light Source accepting a single TTL output from the experiment set-up’s camera to initiate the step-through of a sequence of excitation channels. This feature is independent of the individual channel TTL inputs on the Light Source.

Energy efficiency for cost-saving sustainability

When it comes to making labs safer and more sustainable, LED microscope lighting is an attractive option when compared to old toxic mercury or metal halide lamps. All three channels of the pE-300ultra at full power use just 60 Watts, which is even lower than other LED technology which uses 120 to 350 Watts. “Green Grants” are even sometimes available from establishments, providing financial support owing to the reduction in institutional energy usage.

Award‐winning technology

CoolLED’s pE-300 Series was the 2017 winner of the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL) “Go Beyond Award” for “Excellence in sustainability in laboratory and other high technology facilities”.

Features and Benefits

Feature Benefit
Clean bright illumination across the spectrum Excites common fluorescent stains
Order for existing single and multi-band filter sets No need to buy new filters
Instant on/off No shutters required, no warm up or cool down
Simple to fit, simple to use No alignment, a once only adjustment
Stable and repeatable Reliable and consistent results
Wide range of microscope adaptors Fits most microscopes
Precise intensity control in 1% steps (0 to 100%) No neutral density filters required
Excellent uniformity over field of view Fixed and stable, no alignment necessary
Long lifetime
Removable inline excitation filter holders No moving parts
Individual channel triggering via TTL Triggering in microseconds
Sequence Runner Sequenced excitation from a single TTL output

Control

Mode Description
Manual Manual control for instant on/off and intensity control in 1% steps from 0‐100%. Individual bands can be selected/deselected and controlled independently as desired.
Remote Via USB for independent on/off and intensity control of each channel.
Via global and individual channel TTL for on/off control of selected channels, using a BNC on the light source. Triggering speed <20 µs at full power
Sequence Runner Single TTL input to step through user‐defined sequence. Triggering speed <20 µs at full power
Connectivity Connection to PC is USB 2.0 Type B.
Imaging Software Supported by leading imaging software including MetaMorph, MetaFluor, MetaVue, iVision‐Mac

Configurations

One of these configurations of pE-300ultra must be specified when ordering.

Configuration Details
Direct Fit Direct connection to a microscope, providing higher irradiance than the Liquid Light Guide configuration. Select from a range of microscope adaptors which covers all current and most older models. A simple once-only adjustment allows optimization to the optical path of the microscope.
Liquid Light Guide Keeping the source of illumination remote from the microscope, this variant is available for use with a 3 mm‐diameter Liquid Light Guide. An optional pE-Universal Collimator and microscope adaptor are also available. A light source stand for the pE-300ultra is included with the Liquid Light Guide configuration.

Variants

One of these variants of pE-300ultra must be specified when ordering.

Variant Details
Single‐band Excites DAPI at 365 nm, for use with typical single‐band filter sets within the microscope
Multi‐band Excites DAPI at 400 nm, for use with typical multi‐band filter sets within the microscope
Spectrum of CooLED pE-300-series Single-Band Variant
Spectrum of CoolLED pE-300‐series single‐band variant
Spectrum of CooLED pE-300-series Multi-Band Variant
Spectrum of CoolLED pE-300‐series multi‐band variant

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Power Requirements 110–240V AC. 50 or 60Hz
Power Consumption, Light Source Standby (no LEDs active) 2W
One‐band (GYR) at 100% intensity 20W
Two‐band (BLU & GYR) at 100% intensity 38W
White (all three bands) at 100% intensity 46W
Power Consumption, Light Source and Power Supply Standby (no LEDs active) 3.3W
One‐band (GYR) at 100% intensity 24.4W
Two‐band (BLU & GYR) at 100% intensity 44.3W
White (all three bands) at 100% intensity 56.4W
Dimensions, W×D×H Light Source 77×186×162 mm
Control Pod 88×125×37 mm
Power Supply 167×67×35 mm
Universal Collimator 44×86×44 mm
Weight Light Source 1.4 kg
Control Pod 0.32 kg
Power Supply 0.62 kg
Universal Collimator 0.17 kg
Environment and safety
  • Benefits of a CoolLED product:
  • Mercury‐free and laser‐free
  • Energy‐efficiency
  • Long lifetime
  • No bulb replacements required
  • Reduced risk of eye damage
  • Quiet operation
  • No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months

pE-300white

CoolLED’s pE-300white offers intense, broad-spectrum LED illumination for fluorescence microscopy that is perfect for hospital and regular research laboratory environments. The system is a mercury-free alternative that is safer, more controllable and precise than traditional bulb illumination options.

It is a compact and simple‐to‐use LED illumination unit. It provides a broad spectrum of illumination, covering the excitation bands of common fluorophores such as DAPI, CFP, Aqua, FITC, TRITC, TxRed, Cy5 and many more. Manual operation is by a remote control pod with instant on/off and intensity control from 0 to 100 percent. Remote control is available via USB or TTL trigger.

LED technology is quickly evolving, and since 2017 CoolLED’s new generation has double the irradiance at the sample plane, and for even higher irradiance is available as a Direct Fit model (which also reduces the cost to buy and run thanks to fewer consumables). With ACT Label certification, it is even an environmentally friendly option for illumination.

Direct fit or liquid light guide

There are two pE-300white configuration options: direct fit or liquid light guide. The Direct Fit variant delivers higher irradiance and reduces the cost to buy and run thanks to fewer consumables.

Comparing Irradiance Between Direct Fit and Liquid Light Guide Illumination Systems
Comparing Irradiance Between Direct Fit and Liquid Light Guide Illumination Systems

For confocal microscopes, the Liquid Light Guide model offers the ideal replacement to a metal halide light source, minimizing photobleaching and phototoxicity when viewing samples before scanning. More information on the available variants can be found under specifications.

Fast multi‐channel imaging

An additional benefit of the pE-300300white is that fluorophores can be viewed either individually or in combination, without filter cube changes. This makes it ideal for use with multi‐band filter sets as the screening process can be simplified when fewer filter cubes are used. Independent control of the three LED wavebands allows control of the level of excitation of each fluorophore independently on a multi-stained sample, potentially removing the need for single-band filter sets altogether.

Energy efficiency for cost-saving sustainability

When it comes to making labs safer and more sustainable, LED microscope lighting is an attractive option when compared to old toxic mercury or metal halide lamps. All three channels of the pE-300white at full power use just 60 Watts, which is even lower than other LED technology which uses 120 to 350 Watts. “Green Grants” are even sometimes available from establishments, providing financial support owing to the reduction in institutional energy usage.

Award‐winning technology

CoolLED’s pE-300 Series was the 2017 winner of the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL) “Go Beyond Award” for “Excellence in sustainability in laboratory and other high technology facilities”.

Performance Features and Benefits

Feature Benefit
Feature Benefit
Remote control via USB or triggger Operates with leading microscopy software or via simple hardware signaling
Clean, bright illumination across the spectrum Excites common fluorescent stains
Three LED’s Independent control
Instant on/off No shutters required, no warm up or cool down
Stable and repeatable Reliable and consistent results
Precise intensity control in 1% steps (0 to 100%) No ND filters required

Convenience Features and Benefits

Feature Benefit
Feature Benefit
Order for existing single and multi-band filter sets No need to buy new filters
Simple to fit, simple to use No alignment, a once only adjustment
Wide range of microscope adaptors Fits most microscopes

Control

Mode Description
Manual Manual control for instant on/off and irradiance in 1% steps from 0‐100%. Individual bands can be selected/deselected and controlled independently as desired.
Remote Via USB for independent on/off and intensity control of each channel.
Via single TTL for on/off control of selected channels, using a single BNC on the light source. Triggering speed <20 µs
Connectivity Connection via USB 2.0 Type B for imaging software control.
Imaging Software Supported by leading imaging software including MetaMorph, MetaFluor, MetaVue, iVision‐Mac

Configurations

One of these configurations of pE-300white must be specified when ordering.

Configuration Details
Direct Fit Direct connection to a microscope, providing higher irradiance than the Liquid Light Guide configuration. Select from a range of microscope adaptors which covers all current and most older models. A simple once-only adjustment allows optimization to the optical path of the microscope.
Liquid Light Guide Keeping the source of illumination remote from the microscope, this variant is available for use with a 3 mm‐diameter Liquid Light Guide. An optional pE-Universal Collimator and microscope adaptor are also available. A light source stand for the pE-300white is included with the Liquid Light Guide configuration.

Variants

One of these variants of pE-300white must be specified when ordering.

Variant Details
Single‐band Excites DAPI at 365 nm, for use with typical single‐band filter sets within the microscope
Multi‐band Excites DAPI at 400 nm, for use with typical multi‐band filter sets within the microscope
Spectrum of CooLED pE-300-series Single-Band Variant
Spectrum of CoolLED pE-300‐series single‐band variant
Spectrum of CooLED pE-300-series Multi-Band Variant
Spectrum of CoolLED pE-300‐series multi‐band variant

Specifications

Parameter Specification
DAPI Excitation Options 365 nm waveband configuration For microscope with typical single‐band filter sets
400 nm waveband configuration For microscope with typical multi‐band filters
Power Requirements 110–240V AC. 50 or 60Hz
Power Consumption, Light Source Standby (no LEDs active) 2W
One‐band (GYR) at 100% intensity 20W
Two‐band (BLU & GYR) at 100% intensity 38W
White (all three bands) at 100% intensity 46W
Power Consumption, Light Source and Power Supply Standby (no LEDs active) 3.3W
One‐band (GYR) at 100% intensity 24.4W
Two‐band (BLU & GYR) at 100% intensity 44.3W
White (all three bands) at 100% intensity 56.4W
Dimensions, W×D×H Light Source 77×186×162 mm
Control Pod 88×125×37 mm
Power Supply 167×67×35 mm
Universal Collimator 44×86×44 mm
Weight Light Source 1.4 kg
Control Pod 0.32 kg
Power Supply 0.62 kg
Universal Collimator 0.17 kg
Environment and safety
  • Benefits of a CoolLED product:
  • Mercury‐free and laser‐free
  • Energy‐efficiency
  • Long lifetime
  • No bulb replacements required
  • Reduced risk of eye damage
  • Quiet operation
  • No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months

pE-300lite

The pE-300lite is a simple white light LED illuminator for microscopes. It that offers intense, broad-spectrum LED illumination for fluorescence microscopy. The system is perfect for hospital and regular research laboratory environments and is affordable within consumables budgets.

This mercury-free alternative is safer, more controllable and precise than conventional bulb illumination options. Spectral coverage is from the UV (DAPI excitation) to the Red region (Cy5 excitation).

LED technology is quickly evolving, and since 2017 CoolLED’s new generation has double the irradiance at the sample plane, and for even higher irradiance is available as a Direct Fit model (which also reduces the cost to buy and run thanks to fewer consumables). With ACT Label certification, it is even an environmentally friendly option for illumination.

Direct fit or liquid light guide

There are two pE-300lite configuration options: direct fit or liquid light guide. The Direct Fit variant delivers higher irradiance and reduces the cost to buy and run thanks to fewer consumables.

Comparing Irradiance Between Direct Fit and Liquid Light Guide Illumination Systems
Comparing Irradiance Between Direct Fit and Liquid Light Guide Illumination Systems

For confocal microscopes, the Liquid Light Guide model offers the ideal replacement to a metal halide light source, minimizing photobleaching and phototoxicity when viewing samples before scanning. More information on the available variants can be found under specifications.

Energy efficiency for cost-saving sustainability

When it comes to making labs safer and more sustainable, LED microscope lighting is an attractive option when compared to old toxic mercury or metal halide lamps. All three channels of the pE-300lite at full power use just 60 Watts, which is even lower than other LED technology which uses 120 to 350 Watts. “Green Grants” are even sometimes available from establishments, providing financial support owing to the reduction in institutional energy usage.

With a long lifetime and a comprehensive range of microscope adaptors, the pE-300lite can be fitted to most current and older microscopes and operate for many years without aligning or replacing bulbs. The result is a safe, convenient illumination system without any additional operating costs

Award‐winning technology

CoolLED’s pE-300 Series was the 2017 winner of the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL) “Go Beyond Award” for “Excellence in sustainability in laboratory and other high technology facilities”.

The system comprises a pE-300lite Light Source, control pod, and power supply. It can be ordered with a microscope adaptor for direct‐fit configuration or with a 3 mm diameter liquid light guide if there is a need to keep the source of illumination remote from the microscope. An optional pE-Universal Collimator and microscope adaptor are available for use with a liquid light guide.

As a replacement to a metal halide source on a confocal microscope, the liquid light guide configuration is particularly suitable for pre‐aligning samples before scanning commences. In this way, photobleaching of the sample can be minimized when LED illumination is used.

With an expected lifetime in excess of 25,000 on hours and a comprehensive range of microscope adaptors, the pE-300lite can be fitted to most current and older microscopes and operate for many years without aligning or replacing bulbs. The result is a safe, convenient illumination system without any additional operating costs.

Features and Benefits

Feature Benefit
Simplicity of Purchase
Clean bright illumination across the spectrum Works with everyday fluorophores/stains
Affordability Purchase through lab consumables budget
Broad Spectrum Covers UV (DAPI) to Red region (Cy5)
Order for existing single and multi-band filter sets No need to buy new filters
Simplicity of Installation
Simple to fit Direct fit to the microscope in seconds
Wide range of microscope adaptors Fits most microscopes
No alignment A once‐only adjustment
Simplicity of Use
Instant on/off No shutters required, no warm up or cool down
Stable and repeatable Reliable and consistent results
Precise intensity control in 1% steps (0 to 100%) No neutral density filters required
Excellent uniformity over field of view Fixed and stable, no alignment necessary

Control

Mode Description
Manual Manual control for instant on/off and intensity control in 1% steps from 0‐100.

Configurations

One of these configurations of pE-300lite must be specified when ordering.

Configuration Details
Direct Fit Direct connection to a microscope, providing higher irradiance than the Liquid Light Guide configuration. Select from a range of microscope adaptors which covers all current and most older models. A simple once-only adjustment allows optimization to the optical path of the microscope.
Liquid Light Guide Keeping the source of illumination remote from the microscope, this variant is available for use with a 3 mm‐diameter Liquid Light Guide. An optional pE-Universal Collimator and microscope adaptor are also available. A light source stand for the pE-300white is included with the Liquid Light Guide configuration.

Variants

One of these variants of pE-300lite must be specified when ordering.

Variant Details
Single‐band Excites DAPI at 365 nm, for use with typical single‐band filter sets within the microscope
Multi‐band Excites DAPI at 400 nm, for use with typical multi‐band filter sets within the microscope
Spectrum of CooLED pE-300-series Single-Band Variant
Spectrum of CoolLED pE-300‐series single‐band variant
Spectrum of CooLED pE-300-series Multi-Band Variant
Spectrum of CoolLED pE-300‐series multi‐band variant

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Power Requirements 110–240V AC. 50 or 60Hz
Power Consumption, Light Source Standby 2W
Full white irradiance 46W
Power Consumption, Light Source and Power Supply Standby 3.3W
Full white irradiance 56.4W
Dimensions, W×D×H Light Source 77×186×162 mm
Control Pod 88×125×37 mm
Power Supply 167×67×35 mm
Universal Collimator 44×86×44 mm
Weight Light Source 1.4 kg
Control Pod 0.32 kg
Power Supply 0.62 kg
Universal Collimator 0.17 kg
Environment and safety
  • Benefits of a CoolLED product:
  • Mercury‐free and laser‐free
  • Energy‐efficiency
  • Long lifetime
  • No bulb replacements required
  • Reduced risk of eye damage
  • Quiet operation
  • No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months
CoolLED pE-300ultra light source and control pod
CoolLED pE-300lite light source and control pod

pE-100

The pE-100 series is a family of single‐wavelength fluorescence LED illumination systems, which are compact and simple to use. Systems can be specified at any one of 20 different LED wavelengths, delivering light directly to a microscope, via a liquid light guide, or via a multimode fiber. These systems are ideal for routine clinical screening, for basic research applications requiring precise irradiance control and fast-switching, or for electrophysiology applications where light has to be delivered to a specific location. Operation is by a remote manual control pod with instant on/off and irradiance control from 0-100%, with remote control available via a TTL trigger.

CoolLED pE-100 light source and control panel

CoolLED pE-100 light source and control pod

Data sheet in PDF format

There are three standard pE-100 configuration options:

Direct-fit (pE-100) for connecting to a microscope by selecting from a range of microscope adaptors which covers all current and most older models. A simple once only adjustment will allow optimisation to the optical path of the microscope.

Liquid Light Guide (pE-100light guide) with a fixed 3mm diameter, liquid light guide

Fiber (pE-100fibre) with an SMA connection for accepting multimode fibers. The pE-100fibre has been designed with efficient coupling into a wide range of multimode fibers. The pE-100fibre also includes excitation filter holders.

Features and Benefits

Feature Benefit
Broadest LED spectrum available: 365-770nm Replaces metal halide or mercury light source
Compatibility with existing single and multi-band filter sets No need to buy new filters
Simple to fit, simple to use no alignment, a once‐only adjustment
Stable and repeatable Reliable and consistent results
Wide range of microscope adaptors Fits most microscopes
Precise irradiance control in 1% steps (0 to 100%) No neutral filters required
Excellent uniformity over field of view Fixed and stable, no alignment necessary

Control Options

Manual Control Instant On/Off
Irradiance control in 1% steps from 0 to 100%
Remote On/Off via single TTL through BNC on control pod
Triggering speed approx. 150 µs

Configurations

Configuration Specifics
Direct-fit The pE-100 is designed to connect directly to a microscope’s epi-illumination port. A simple once‐only adjustment allowd optimization to the optical path of the microscope. A microscope adapter must be ordered with the light source; the range of microscope adaptors covers all current and most older models. The direct connection offers higher irradiance than a liquid light guide.
Liquid Light Guide The pE-100light guide connects to the microscope via a fixed 3mm‐diameter, 1.5 meter‐long liquid light guide. This allows the source of illumination to be remote from the microscope.
Fiber The pE-100fibre features an SMA connection for accepting multimode fibers and has been designed with efficient coupling into a wide range of fiber types. The pE-100fibre also includes excitation filter holders.

Combining pE-100 Light Sources

An optional pE-Combiner is available for applications requiring a second LED wavelength with independent control and triggering.

Spectral data

CoolLED pE-4000 spectrum
CoolLED pE-100 spectrum

CoolLED is often asked about the power, intensity or irradiance of CoolLED Illumination Systems. The answer is not as simple as you might believe from many websites and data sheets, and it can be difficult to compare data from these sources as measuring set ups differ.

Photons are also lost as light travels from the light source to sample plane. The only way to objectively compare light sources is by measuring irradiance at the sample plane. To understand why CoolLED uses the term irradiance and how to measure and compare light sources with accuracy and precision, read their white paper.

Please contact us with further questions or to request performance data.

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Power Requirements 110–240V AC. 50 or 60Hz
Power Consumption, Light Source Standby 2.2W
Full irradiance 25W
Power Consumption, Light Source and Power Supply Standby 3.3W
Full white irradiance 56.4W
Dimensions, W×D×H pE-100 Light Source (direct fit) 60×170×70 mm
pE-100light guide Light Source 52×95×52 mm
pE-100fibre Light Source 76×165×80 mm
Combined 2× pE-100fibre Light Source 190×220×190 mm
Control Pod 102×110×50 mm
Power Supply 55×95×40 mm
Weight pE-100 Light Source (direct fit) 0.38 kg
pE-100light guide Light Source 0.42 kg
pE-100fibre Light Source 0.42 kg
Combined 2× pE-100fibre Light Source 1.5 kg
Control Pod 0.55 kg
Power Supply 0.19 kg
Environment and safety
  • Benefits of a CoolLED product:
  • Mercury‐free and laser‐free
  • Energy‐efficiency
  • Long lifetime
  • No bulb replacements required
  • Reduced risk of eye damage
  • Quiet operation
  • No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months

Key Benefits

  • Combines software and hardware timing to flexibly match illumination to camera exposure and reduce photo damage
  • Standalone front panel control, works with any software
  • LED indicators allow researcher to keep track of experiment
  • Streaming protocols can be changed on-the-fly in response to experimental needs
  • Supports virtual global shutter modes on scientific CMOS cameras

pT-100

The pT-100 is a compact and simple-to-use LED illumination system for transmitted light applications, including brightfield, darkfield, DIC, Dodt gradient contrast and phase contrast.

It is available in four variants to bring the benefits of LEDs to modern laboratories. A broad white system provides a safer and convenient alternative to halogen by reducing harmful UV exposure to the eyes and is ideal for long hours spent at the microscope, while three narrow‐bandwidth options (525, 635 and 770 nm) optimize image quality through increased contrast. The pT-100-WHT and pT-100-770 nm are also available as variants with a 3 mm liquid light guide attachment, which is ideal for electrophysiology applications.

Whether you seek a broad white 100 W halogen replacement or want to optimize the quality of your images through the use of narrower spectrum wavelengths, the pT-100 can meet your needs.

CoolLED LED illumination technology offers a host of benefits over halogen systems, with instant on/off and irradiance control in 1% steps from the ergonomically designed manual control pod which can be positioned close at hand. Remote control is also available via a TTL trigger.

A true 100 W Halogen replacement: pT-100-WHT

Laboratories familiar with halogen lamps will find that CoolLED’s broad white achieves results which make the move to LED’s simple and apparent. Color temperature remains constant as irradiance is increased, which makes color balancing unnecessary and improves standardization between sessions. Samples will appear identical even though irradiance could be up to five times greater.

In addition, the pT-100-WHT does not produce unwanted light in the UV which makes it safer and more comfortable, as risk of eye damage is significantly lower.

Narrow‐bandwidth solutions which eliminate background noise

White light LED systems using a phosphored LED can be a source of background noise when used as a transmitted light source, which reduces image contrast. Narrow bandwidth illumination systems remove this background source to improve image quality and enhance analysis – even in thicker samples and applications requiring infrared light.

  • Higher‐contrast images. The pT-100-525’s narrow bandwidth at 525 nm is optimized for the spectral response of most scientific cameras and reduces background noise from a phosphored LED.
  • Revealing details in thick samples. The pT-100-635’s narrow bandwidth at 635 nm provides deeper penetration, which is excellent for revealing detail in thicker samples.
  • Infrared illumination of thicker samples. The pT-100-770’s narrow bandwidth at 770 nm provides deeper sample penetration techniques that require the use of infrared light.
CoolLED pT-100 narrower bandwidths
CoolLED pT-100 Narrower Bandwidths

Liquid Light Guide for added flexibility

The pT-100-WHT and pT-100-770 nm are also available with a 3 mm liquid light guide as an alternative to using a direct attachment adapter, offering two main benefits:

  • Enhancing accuracy of sensitive electrophysiology experiments, as remote positioning allows the Illumination Systems to be placed outside of a Faraday cage, avoiding electrical interference;
  • Added compatibility with microscopes which only feature a liquid light guide input, the collimating optics being an integral part of the microscope.
CoolLED pT-100 light source and control panel

CoolLED pT-100 light source and control pod

Data sheet in PDF format

There are three standard pE-100 configuration options:

Direct-fit (pE-100) for connecting to a microscope by selecting from a range of microscope adaptors which covers all current and most older models. A simple once only adjustment will allow optimisation to the optical path of the microscope.

Liquid Light Guide (pE-100light guide) with a fixed 3mm diameter, liquid light guide

Fiber (pE-100fibre) with an SMA connection for accepting multimode fibers. The pE-100fibre has been designed with efficient coupling into a wide range of multimode fibers. The pE-100fibre also includes excitation filter holders.

Features and Benefits

Feature Benefit
Broadest LED spectrum available: 365-770nm Replaces metal halide or mercury light source
Compatibility with existing single and multi-band filter sets No need to buy new filters
Simple to fit, simple to use no alignment, a once‐only adjustment
Stable and repeatable Reliable and consistent results
Wide range of microscope adaptors Fits most microscopes
Precise irradiance control in 1% steps (0 to 100%) No neutral filters required
Excellent uniformity over field of view Fixed and stable, no alignment necessary

Control Options

Manual Control Instant On/Off
Irradiance control in 1% steps from 0 to 100%
Remote On/Off via single TTL through BNC on control pod
Triggering speed approx. 150 µs

Configurations

Configuration Specifics
Direct-fit The pE-100 is designed to connect directly to a microscope’s epi-illumination port. A simple once‐only adjustment allowd optimization to the optical path of the microscope. A microscope adapter must be ordered with the light source; the range of microscope adaptors covers all current and most older models. The direct connection offers higher irradiance than a liquid light guide.
Liquid Light Guide The pE-100light guide connects to the microscope via a fixed 3mm‐diameter, 1.5 meter‐long liquid light guide. This allows the source of illumination to be remote from the microscope.
Fiber The pE-100fibre features an SMA connection for accepting multimode fibers and has been designed with efficient coupling into a wide range of fiber types. The pE-100fibre also includes excitation filter holders.

Combining pE-100 Light Sources

An optional pE-Combiner is available for applications requiring a second LED wavelength with independent control and triggering.

Spectral data

CoolLED pE-4000 spectrum
CoolLED pE-100 spectrum

CoolLED is often asked about the power, intensity or irradiance of CoolLED Illumination Systems. The answer is not as simple as you might believe from many websites and data sheets, and it can be difficult to compare data from these sources as measuring set ups differ.

Photons are also lost as light travels from the light source to sample plane. The only way to objectively compare light sources is by measuring irradiance at the sample plane. To understand why CoolLED uses the term irradiance and how to measure and compare light sources with accuracy and precision, read their white paper.

Please contact us with further questions or to request performance data.

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Power Requirements 110–240V AC. 50 or 60Hz
Power Consumption, Light Source Standby 2.2W
Full irradiance 25W
Power Consumption, Light Source and Power Supply Standby 3.3W
Full white irradiance 56.4W
Dimensions, W×D×H pE-100 Light Source (direct fit) 60×170×70 mm
pE-100light guide Light Source 52×95×52 mm
pE-100fibre Light Source 76×165×80 mm
Combined 2× pE-100fibre Light Source 190×220×190 mm
Control Pod 102×110×50 mm
Power Supply 55×95×40 mm
Weight pE-100 Light Source (direct fit) 0.38 kg
pE-100light guide Light Source 0.42 kg
pE-100fibre Light Source 0.42 kg
Combined 2× pE-100fibre Light Source 1.5 kg
Control Pod 0.55 kg
Power Supply 0.19 kg
Environment and safety
  • Benefits of a CoolLED product:
  • Mercury‐free and laser‐free
  • Energy‐efficiency
  • Long lifetime
  • No bulb replacements required
  • Reduced risk of eye damage
  • Quiet operation
  • No special disposal regulations or issues
Warranty 36 months

Need a product demo? Contact us.