Abstract: A microscope includes a microscope arm having an interior and an exterior surface. The interior surface has at least one recessed portion disposed therein extending from the interior surface of the microscope arm to an inner recess surface of the microscope arm. The recessed portion forms a surface for gripping the microscope. A portion of the recessed portion is, preferably, disposed above the stage and below the objective turret of the microscope. The recessed portion may comprise a textured surface for increasing the static coefficient of friction thereof.

Abstract: A lamp assembly for a microscope, the microscope having a stand, comprising a female member comprising a first electrical socket, the socket arranged to provide a source of electricity for a lamp, the female receptacle located inside the microscope stand, and, a male member comprising at least two electrical pin terminals arranged to matingly engage the first electrical socket to receive electricity therefrom, and, a second socket electrically connected to the at least two electrical pin terminals, the second socket arranged to hold the lamp and provide electricity thereto.

Abstract: A microscope includes at least one focusing means for focusing an object plane. The focusing means includes first and second adjustment means. The first and second adjustment means are coaxial and independently rotatably adjustable with respect to one another. The second adjustment means are releasably fastenable to the focusing means. In a preferred embodiment, the first adjustment means comprises a coarse focus adjustment knob and the second adjustment means comprises a fine focus adjustment knob. The second adjustment means preferably includes magnetic means adapted for mating engagement with complementary magnetically attractable means of a rotatable focus drive means of the focusing means. A particularly preferred embodiment comprises at least two focusing means wherein the second adjustment means of each may be releasably attached to each; one on each opposite side of the microscope as desired.