Calculate Digital Microscope Magnification, Field Of View, Image Size, and Resolution

When designing automated digital microscopy devices for life science, biomedical, and diagnostic applications, you want the highest resolution image and the highest throughput in images per second at a cost that provides the greatest value. To create the optimal design, we use many formulas specific to the imaging sensor and microscope objective selection which also impacts the performance requirements of the sample XY motion and Z focusing motion. When we understand and apply these formulas it simplifies the modeling and prototyping process.

Two examples: The microscope field of view calculation relates the sensor size to the magnification and will determine how many XY movements will be required to image the area of interest on the sample. The microscope depth of field formula is dependant on the chosen objective’s numerical aperture and determines what the Z focusing axis stability will need to be in order to have a clear image at the sensor.