NIKON 20X-0.75 Plan Apo Microscope Objective 20X/0.75 160/0.17

( Brand: Nikon ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 20X/0.75 ), ( Model: NIKON PLAN APO 20X/0.75 160/0.17 ), ( Country Of Origin: Japan )

Review NIKON 20x/0.75 160/0.17 Plan Apo Microscope Objective

The **Nikon 20x/0.75 Plan Apo Chromat (WD 160mm, NA 0.17)** microscope objective is a high-performance, long-working-distance lens designed for precision imaging in low-magnification applications where depth of field and resolution are critical. Part of Nikon s renowned Plan Apo series, this objective combines exceptional optical clarity with a robust mechanical construction, making it ideal for a wide range of scientific and industrial applications. With a numerical aperture (NA) of 0.75 and a working distance of 160 millimeters, it excels in capturing detailed images of large or shallow samples, such as biological specimens, geological thin sections, or surface topography studies, where traditional high-magnification objectives would struggle due to proximity constraints. The Plan Apo design ensures minimal chromatic aberration and distortion, delivering sharp, high-contrast images across the entire field of view, even when using white light or broad-spectrum illumination. Its large working distance allows for the examination of thick or uneven samples without the need for invasive preparation, such as sectioning or staining, preserving the integrity of delicate specimens. The objective s 0.17 correction collar adjustment further enhances versatility, enabling fine-tuning of focus and aberration correction across different immersion media or sample thicknesses. Built to Nikon s stringent standards, this objective features durable, corrosion-resistant coatings and a precision-ground glass element assembly, ensuring long-term reliability and consistent performance in demanding laboratory or field environments. Whether integrated into a compound microscope, stereo microscope, or specialized imaging system, the 20x/0.75 Plan Apo objective provides a seamless balance of magnification, resolution, and working distance, making it an indispensable tool for researchers, engineers, and technicians seeking uncompromising optical performance.

The Nikon Plan Apo 20x/0.75 160/0.17 objective is a high-quality, long-working-distance objective designed for brightfield microscopy. Below is a detailed analysis of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros**

1. **High Numerical Aperture (NA 0.75)**

The objective offers a relatively high NA for its working distance, which improves light-gathering capability and resolution compared to lower-NA objectives with similar magnification. This is particularly useful for imaging semi-transparent or lightly stained samples where contrast is a concern.

2. **Long Working Distance (160 mm)**

The extended working distance (160 mm) is ideal for imaging thick or opaque samples, such as tissue sections, biological specimens mounted in deep chambers, or samples viewed through coverslips with significant thickness. This reduces the risk of damaging samples or colliding with immersion media or chambers.

3. **Plan Correction**

The "Plan" designation indicates that the objective is corrected for flat-field imaging, meaning the image plane remains relatively distortion-free across the field of view. This is beneficial for capturing wide-field images without significant curvature of field, which is common in lower-quality objectives.

4. **Brightfield Compatibility**

The objective is designed for brightfield microscopy, which is the most common imaging mode in biological and materials sciences. It works well with standard illumination setups, including Koehler illumination, and is compatible with most microscopes equipped for brightfield.

5. **Durability and Build Quality**

Nikon objectives are known for their robust construction, optical stability, and longevity. The Plan Apo series is particularly well-regarded for maintaining sharpness and color fidelity over time, even with frequent use.

6. **Compatibility with Nikon Microscopes**

If you already own a Nikon microscope, this objective will integrate seamlessly with the optical path, ensuring optimal performance and minimal alignment issues. Nikon s optics are designed to work harmoniously with their own components.

7. **Versatility for Semi-Thick Samples**

The combination of high NA and long working distance makes this objective suitable for imaging samples that are too thick for higher-magnification, shorter-working-distance objectives (e.g., 40x or 60x). This includes some histological sections or 3D cell cultures.

8. **Low Magnification with High Detail**

At 20x magnification, the objective strikes a balance between providing sufficient detail for observation and allowing a broad field of view. This is useful for surveying large areas of a sample before zooming in with higher-magnification objectives.

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### **Cons**

1. **Limited Resolution Compared to Higher-NA Objectives**

While the NA of 0.75 is decent for a long-working-distance objective, it is still lower than that of shorter-working-distance objectives (e.g., a 60x/1.4 oil objective). This means finer details in the sample may not be resolved as sharply, especially in highly transparent or thin specimens where higher NA would be advantageous.

2. **Potential for Lower Contrast in Thin Samples**

For very thin or lightly stained samples, the lower NA may result in reduced contrast compared to higher-NA objectives. Techniques like phase contrast or differential interference contrast (DIC) might be more effective for enhancing contrast in such cases.

3. **Cost**

High-quality Nikon objectives, especially those in the Plan Apo series, are expensive. The 20x/0.75 Plan Apo is no exception, and the price may be prohibitive for casual users or those on a tight budget. Lower-cost alternatives from other manufacturers (e.g., Olympus or Zeiss) may offer similar performance at a reduced price.

4. **Working Distance Trade-Off**

The long working distance is a pro for thick samples but can be a con if you frequently work with very thin samples or require closer proximity to the sample. Some applications (e.g., high-resolution imaging of cell cultures) may benefit from shorter-working-distance objectives.

5. **Immersion Requirements**

While this objective does not require oil immersion, it may still benefit from immersion oil if used with higher-NA objectives in a multi-objective setup. However, the 0.75 NA is already relatively high for a dry objective, so immersion may not significantly improve performance.

6. **Field of View Limitations**

The flat-field correction is excellent, but the field of view at 20x may still be narrower than that of lower-magnification objectives (e.g., 10x). If you need to image very large areas, you may need to stitch multiple images together.

7. **Compatibility with Non-Nikon Microscopes**

While Nikon objectives are high-quality, they are not universally compatible with non-Nikon microscopes. The optical path and alignment may require adjustments, potentially reducing performance or requiring additional accessories.

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### **Conclusion**

The Nikon Plan Apo 20x/0.75 160/0.17 objective is an excellent choice for applications requiring a balance of high resolution, long working distance, and flat-field imaging. It excels in scenarios where you need to image thick or opaque samples without damaging them, and where a wide field of view with minimal distortion is desired. However, it may not be the best fit for high-resolution imaging of thin, transparent samples or for users who require the highest possible contrast without additional contrast enhancement techniques.

The objective s strengths lie in its durability, optical quality, and versatility for brightfield microscopy, particularly in biological and materials sciences. Its long working distance makes it invaluable for certain types of samples that would be difficult or impossible to image with shorter-working-distance objectives.

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### **Recommendation**

- You frequently work with thick or opaque samples (e.g., tissue sections, 3D cultures, or samples in deep chambers).

- You require a flat-field, distortion-free image plane for wide-field imaging.

- You are using a Nikon microscope and want to maintain consistency in optical performance.

- You need a reliable, high-quality objective that will last for years with minimal maintenance.

- Your budget allows for the investment in a premium objective, and you prioritize long-term value and performance.

- You primarily work with thin, transparent samples where higher NA (e.g., 60x/1.4 oil) would be more beneficial.

- You need to maximize contrast in lightly stained or unstained samples, in which case phase contrast or DIC objectives might be more suitable.

- You are on a tight budget and can find a similarly performing objective from another manufacturer (e.g., Olympus PlanApo or Zeiss Plan-Apochromat) at a lower cost.

- You require a shorter working distance for closer sample observation or specialized imaging techniques.

- A lower-magnification objective (e.g., 10x) for surveying large areas.

- Higher-magnification objectives (e.g., 40x or 60x) for detailed imaging, depending on your sample type and working distance requirements.

- Contrast enhancement techniques (e.g., phase contrast or DIC) if working with transparent samples.

In summary, this objective is a strong investment for users who prioritize optical quality, durability, and the ability to image thick samples without compromise. For other applications, evaluating alternatives or complementary techniques may yield better results.

Details:

I'm not a microscope dealer or expert. This may need to be cleaned. I looked at the lens with an eyepiece and did not see any lamination, cracks or scratches on. Includes the following: 1 Nikon PLAN APO 20X/0.75 160/0.17 Microscope Objective.

part #: 20x075 prices

• $150.00-$199.95

specifications microscopepartzo:

• brand: Nikon
• mpn: 20x/0.75
• model: Nikon Plan Apo 20x/0.75 160/0.17
• country of origin: Japan

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