Abstract: A microtome has a cutting device which is adjustably mounted on an arrangement of guide tracks. At least one electrical load, which is electrically connected to a current source, is provided on the cutting device. The current source is connected to the electrical load by the arrangement of guide tracks.

Abstract: A microtome has a knife and a specimen holder for a specimen. The specimen holder can be adjusted relative to the knife. A safety device for the knife is provided, which is adjustable between a protective position, in which it covers the knife at least partially, and a release position, in which it releases the knife. Status parameters of the microtome are detected by means of a sensor and analyzed in a control device. A driving device, by means of which the safety device can be brought at least from the release position into the protective position, is associated with the safety device. The driving device can be actuated by the control device as a function of at least one status parameter of the microtome.