Nikon’s Museum of Microscopy
Nikon TMS Inverted Microscope
( Circa 1987 )
The Nikon TMS is a widely used inverted microscope that is found in tissue culture laboratories around the world. Although the more advanced Eclipse TE200 and TE300 models feature infinity-corrected optics, the TMS, which was first released in the mid-1980s, still produces high quality images that meet the critical needs of most biological and metallurgical research.
![](https://www.microscopyu.com/assets/museum/_icon2x/tmsinverted.png)
Successor to the Diaphot TMD, the Nikon TMS inverted microscope is simply built and shares a similar optical pathway to the earlier instrument, employing only one reflection surface in its main body. The revolving triple nosepiece of the TMS can accommodate a variety of objectives that contain lenses belonging to Nikon's CF series. Focusing of the instrument is achieved through manipulation of a sensitive focusing knob and a standard 20-watt halogen lamp provides critical illumination. Accessories for the Nikon TMS include two extra-long working distance condensers, a phase slider and rings, and an attachable mechanical stage with a choice of stage plate adapters. Also, for inspection of large specimens, the illuminator support stand may be removed in order that an external light source, such as a flood lamp, may be utilized instead.
Today the Nikon TMS is succeeded by the Eclipse Ts2R inverted microscope for mid-range research and tissue culture applications.