In repeated efforts to see a specimen illuminated from above (epi-illumination), I seldom found I could concentrate sufficient light for a good image. Two high brightness LEDs either side of the objective did quite well, but not good enough. Then I found the high brightness LEDs mounted into flexible wands for use as a light on laptops. These I could position a bit closer to the specimen - still not enough light.

Obviously what was needed was a small projector which could be positioned back from the objective, but at a high angle in order to improve the down lighting.

Experiments with the few lenses I had available seemed to indicate that either an old condenser, with the top element removed, or a reversed eyepiece could be brought into service. The projecting distance needed was 3 to 4 inches. The condenser gave a larger spread of light, better suited to the stereo microscope.

For the light source proper I chose a 1 watt LED as sold by Messrs Dick Smith (in Australia). These LEDs are similar to Luxeons, except they are unmounted, and half the price!

Additionally, a constant current source is required along with suitable heat sink(s).

Very few components are actually needed. The current source is a re-configured LM317 voltage regulator, along with resistor and capacitor. All this mounted on a piece of Vero board. For my first effort I used an old heat sink from a wrecked TV, mounting both the regulator and the LED on the same sink, although both should be electrically isolated. My second version uses separate heat sinks. Originally I also used a fan, but found this an unnecessary complication. The LM317 gets to about 50 degrees but the LED, although a heat sink is necessary, runs much cooler.

Usually I use these light sources mounted on a camera table tripod.

The advantages to me, are that the whole thing costs about $A20 (£8), takes up very little table space, gives a really good light (daylight colour) and projects no heat to the specimen. I leave it on for hours at a time!

Construction uses small pieces of wood, and whatever else will hold things in place.

Comments to the author are welcomed.

Circuit diagram; should work anywhere from about 6v to around 30v.
 

Light source using condensing lens and common heat sink. Space behind  would accommodate a computer type micro-fan.
 

Light source using two separate heat sinks.

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