OMAX MD827S30-PHD 3MP Digital Integrated Microscope - 40X-2000X Magnification - Compound Binocular Microscope with Phase-Contrast Kit & Halogen Illumination

I wanted to learn about phase contrast microscopy, and this scope appeared to be the most cost effective route. Pros (in addition to initial low cost): excellent images considering these are not PLAN objectives; intuitive software with several field of view options; easy to calibrate. Also, once you make appropriate diopter adjustments on the eye pieces, the image stays in focus switching between visual and digital. Cons: I couldn't get the software to work properly (some features not functional) in Windows 10 (works great in Windows 7).I unpacked this scope at a client's facility and invited their resident microscopist to view images at 80x to 800x. He was impressed with the quality - crisp images. Quite an endorsement given he has a 1000x Nikon scope with PLAN objectives in his lab.Since I purchased this product in 2015 I upgraded to plan objectives (bright field and phase contrast) and condenser turret for phase contrast and a Kohler condenser. 17 months after delivery, the power supply has died (changed bulb and fuse but still does not light up). I'm still waiting to hear back from their service department.Bottom line: some improvements in the built in 3Mp camera and Win10 compatibility and this is a slam dunk 5.0.

Great scope and the software is easy to use.