Abstract: In an automatic microscope, there is the task to satisfy the demand for an economical, compact structure, especially a miniaturization as an essential aspect. The automatic microscope contains an optical system having the following: an illumination field (1) which is at least approximately arranged in the aperture diaphragm plane (ABE) of a condenser (2) and is used for the illumination of the object; an imaging optic (4); and, an image-providing sensor (5) arranged in the image plane of the imaging optic.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a controllable microscope illumination within a microscope system by which all essential contrasting methods in microscopy can be realized. The illumination device according to the invention comprises a plurality of individual light sources which can be regulated with respect to brightness, wherein these individual light sources are formed as unit cells and form a luminous surface by a periodic arrangement. In an advantageous arrangement, imaging optics are associated with each individual light source in order to magnify the image of the source surface of the individual light source so that the images of the source surfaces of adjacent individual light sources touch. Illumination variants for all of the essential contrasting methods in microscopy can be generated by means of the proposed solution. The proposed LED illumination is electronically switchable, can be regulated with respect to brightness, supplies all colors, is long-lasting and economical.