Abstract: Microscope system for, and methods of, imaging a sample including biological cells. In an exemplary method, light transmitted through the sample may be detected for a first set of focal positions to collect a first stack of images. Values of a focus metric may be calculated for the first stack of images. A candidate focal position may be determined based on the values. Photoluminescence may be detected from the sample for a second set of focal positions to collect a second stack of images. The second set of focal positions may define a smaller range than the first set of focal positions. At least one focal position of the second set of focal positions may be based on the candidate focal position. In other words, the candidate focal position may serve as a guide for finding a suitable photoluminescence focal position.

Abstract: Microscope system for, and methods of, imaging a sample including biological cells. In an exemplary method, light transmitted through the sample may be detected for a first set of focal positions to collect a first stack of images. Values of a focus metric may be calculated for the first stack of images. A candidate focal position may be determined based on the values. Photoluminescence may be detected from the sample for a second set of focal positions to collect a second stack of images. The second set of focal positions may define a smaller range than the first set of focal positions. At least one focal position of the second set of focal positions may be based on the candidate focal position. In other words, the candidate focal position may serve as a guide for finding a suitable photoluminescence focal position.

Abstract: A biochip detection system detects and locates samples that are labeled with multiple fluorescent tags and are located on a biochip. This biochip detection system includes a charge coupled device (CCD) sensor, a broad spectrum light source, a lens, a light source filter, and a sensor filter. The CCD sensor comprises two dimensional CCD arrays to simultaneously detect light waves from at least a substantial portion of the biochip. The broad spectrum light source is optically coupled to the CCD sensor and is configured to be utilized with a variety of different fluorescent tags which have differing excitation wavelengths.