EXFO Life Sciences and Industrial Division - X-Cite® Fluorescence Microscopy Illumination Systems

EXFO Life Sciences and Industrial Division is a global leader in the design and manufacture of fluorescence illumination, UV light delivery, and micro-positioning systems, providing high-value application solutions in the following market segments:

• Life science cellular imaging and micromanipulation
• Medical device and optoelectronics manufacturing
• Graphics digital printing

X-Cite® fluorescence microscopy illumination systems

Engineered to the specifications of imaging specialists, X-Cite® is a product family of illumination systems designed especially for fluorescence microscopy. With a wide selection of features and accessories, X-Cite® systems are used in labs worldwide for applications ranging from routine fluorescence assays to advanced live cell and quantitative imaging.

The X-Cite® product family offers:

• Fluorescence illumination systems that include pre-aligned, long-life mercury Intelli-Lamps® with a 2,000 hour warranty
• Exceptional illumination intensity and uniformity
• Compatibility with fluorescence microscopes from Carl Zeiss, Leica, Nikon, and Olympus
• Connection to a microscope via a liquid light guide, minimizing heat and vibration transferred to the microscope, which is advantageous for sensitive live cell imaging applications
• Convenient installation and ease of use, making X-Cite® illuminators the ideal microscope light sources for use on standard fluorescence microscopes or integration into custom imaging instruments

X-Cite® 120Q - Providing convenience and control in fluorescence illumination

The X-Cite® 120Q system uses a 120W lamp to deliver rich spectral excitation with a uniformly illuminated field of view that is comparable to, or better than conventional mercury arc (HBO) lamps. The proprietary Intelli-Lamp® provides more than 2,000 hours of fluorescence illumination, and an optional adjustable iris allows the operator to set the level of intensity. The lamp is pre-aligned, so changing it is a simple, one-step process, making the X-Cite® 120Q ideal for use in busy multi-user facilities.

X-Cite® 120PC Q - computer controllable fluorescence illumination

The X-Cite® 120PC Q offers the same performance and convenience as the X-Cite® 120XL with the added benefit of being computer controllable. The straightforward RS-232 command set easily allows integration into automated systems, as well as commercially available imaging software platforms. Additional features of the X-Cite® 120PC Q include a motorized shutter, timer function and foot pedal control.

X-Cite® exacte - the total solution for quantitative and live cell imaging

The X-Cite® exacte employs a DC-powered mercury lamp coupled with patented closed-loop feedback technology to provide ultra-stable fluorescence illumination, for imaging protocols lasting from milliseconds to days. When combined with the X-Cite® Radiometer, light output can also be calibrated in absolute power units (watts), ensuring truly repeatable experiments for quantitative fluorescence microscopy applications.

Additional features include intensity adjustment in 1% increments, and a high-speed internal shutter, ideal for photosensitive live cell imaging protocols.

X-Cite® Radiometer - ensures repeatability of fluorescence illumination levels

The X-Cite® Radiometer enables calibration of the X-Cite® exacte fluorescence illuminator, for the ultimate in repeatability, stability, control and consistency. Monitor power output in watts as the lamp ages to ensure known fluorescence illumination levels that are easily repeatable.

X-Cite® Store - convenient on-line purchasing now available

Replacement lamps and light guides for X-Cite® fluorescence illumination systems can now be purchased directly from EXFO. For customers in North America, purchases can be made on-line with a credit card for quick and convenient order processing and delivery.