Inverted Microscope

Inverted, Phase Contrast Microscope

Leitz DIAVERT is an example of both inverted, as well as phase contrast microscopy. In inverted microscopes, the platform is usually bigger to allow viewing through petri dishes, and the lamp housing is usually completely separate from the microscope body. There is usually an elongated optical rail to allow the light source to be adjusted up and down. These are some of the unique features found on inverted microscopes.

The Nosepiece (below, left) usually carry a combination of standard, and phase contrast objectives, containing a phase late inside for phase contrast observation (below, right).