Abstract: A method for conducting FCS measurements includes providing a sample volume, emitting a target light having a first wavelength from a target light source, and marking an FCS volume in the sample volume with the target light by directing the target light onto the sample volume. An illuminating light having a second wavelength is emitted from an illuminating light source, the second wavelength being different than the first wavelength, and the illuminating light is directed onto the sample volume.

Abstract: An arrangement and method are provided for determining the distance between an objective of a microscope and a sample examined with the microscope. Fitted on the objective or in the immediate vicinity of the objective is a capacitive sensor in whose measuring range the sample and/or a microscope slide supporting the sample is located or into which it can be brought. The sample and/or the slide causing a measurable change in the capacitance of the sensor. From the change in the capacitance of the sensor, the distance of the sample and/or of the microscope slide from the sensor is determined, and thus the distance of the sample from the objective. A capacitive distance sensor can be applied in such an arrangement by which a stray field can be generated between at least two electrodes. The capacitance experiences a measurable change owing to an object introduced into the stray field. The electrodes of the sensor are arranged as substantially coaxial lateral surfaces.

Abstract: An apparatus for the spectral selection and detection of spectral regions of a light beam includes a selection unit and a detection unit. The selection unit includes a spectral splitting device and a light blocking and reflecting device. The spectral splitting device is for spectrally splitting the light beam. The light blocking and reflecting device is for blocking a first spectral region and reflecting at least part of an unblocked second spectral region. The detection unit includes a number of detectors. At least one of the detectors is disposed in a first beam path of the blocked second spectral region. At least one of the detectors is disposed in a second beam path of the reflected first spectral region. Each of the detectors has a different detection property or uses a respective different detection method.