CoolLED Light Sources
BioVision Technologies offers the following microscope illumination products from CoolLED Ltd.:
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:
- Representative photocurrent traces of a PhobosCA expressing CA1 cell evoked with different activation wavelengths and shutoff with 595 nm light.
- 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.
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
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 |
| 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 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 | ||
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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 |
|
| TTL and analog |
|
| Sequence runner |
|
| Connectivity |
|
Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | |
| Light delivery |
|
|
| 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 |
|
|
| 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 |
|
|
| Warranty | 36 months | |
Spectral data
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
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).
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.
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.
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 |
|
| TTL and analog |
|
| Sequence Runner |
|
| Connectivity |
|
Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | |
| Light delivery |
|
|
| Power requirements | 100–240 V a.c., 50 or 60 Hz | |
| Power consumption |
|
|
| 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 |
|
|
| Warranty | 36 months | |
Spectral data
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.
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).
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 |
|
|
| 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 |
|
|
| Warranty | 36 months; the 340 nm LED is warranteed for 3000 hours accumulated use | |
Spectral data
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.
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.
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 |
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 |
|
|
| 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.
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 |
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 |
|
|
| 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.
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 |
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 |
|
|
| Warranty | 36 months | |
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.
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 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 |
|
|
| 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.
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.
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 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 |
|
|
| Warranty | 36 months | |