During the past few years, light microscopy has achieved new levels in sensitivity and resolution with the advent of video-enhancement techniques. Microscopists and cell biologists can now observe minute features in cells, for example microtubules in the cytoskeleton, that previously were undetectable with conventional microscopy.

An essential component in video-enhanced microscopy is the image processor, which greatly increases the signal-to-noise ratio, improving the quality of the microscopic image. Photonic Microscopy Inc., in Oak Brook, Ill., has developed the DVS 3000 Digital Video System, a cost-effective image processor designed to create first-rate images that take advantage of video-enhanced technology.

“The DVS 3000 is the only image processor in its price range that can achieve simultaneous background subtraction and signal averaging in real time,” says Donald Commare, product manager at Photonic Microscopy. “It is the progeny of the system used by Bob Allen [pioneer in video-enhanced light microscopy], and it is both...

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