Abstract: Embodiments provide microscopes, and more specifically, embodiments provide improvements to zoom control, viewing, and light management in microscopes particularly suited for surgery. These improvements include a compact zoom control system that provides enhanced surgical workspace, ergonomics, and optics, as well as improved methods for controlling a stereomicroscope light source and a novel auxiliary viewing system.

Abstract: Various devices are disclosed for projecting a beam of coherent collimated light at a surface for use as reference lines and planes. The devices are also useful for projecting tracings of light in any of various geometric patterns. The devices comprise a pointer unit containing a light source, such as a laser diode. The light source is mounted so as to undergo periodic reciprocating motion in least one dimension, as imparted by any of various possible mechanisms. Combinations of such motions in two dimensions allows production of an infinite variety of geometric tracings. The pointer unit can be detachably mounted perpendicularly to a rotatable shaft provided by a base portion, or used separately as a level or hand-held pointer.