stly make sure that you’re using the focus ramp (component A4) properly! The focus ramp is, as the name suggests, a ramp that is thick on one end and thin on the other. Sliding the focus ramp from left to right changes the distance from the lens from the sample, shifting the focus. To start at the lowest focus, put the thin side of the ramp between the lens and the sample. To adjust focus, push toward the thick side while viewing your sample until you can see the sample clearly.

Secondly, make sure you are viewing objects that are translucent, or allow light through. Completely opaque objects can not be viewed using transmission light microscopy.

Third, errors in the assembly process can result in difficulty focusing. Please review the videos at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnO8NcEb6LFy1p0rCVBfHY0JUgBswRC4m to ensure you have properly built your Foldscope.

No you can keep it!

Sarah,

First, it depends on the type of sample, if it is a dry sample like the clothing fiber or grass seeds one coverslip is fine, it it is a wet sample we recommend sandwiching the sample.

Did your receive a deluxe kit? If so we would recommend using the transparent tape on the other side of the cover slip to sandwich between the transparent tape and the clear coverslip sticker, thus saving your coverslip stickers!

If you received the basic classroom version with no tape then we recommend using two clear coverslips for best results with wet samples.

Hope this is helpful!

First I would say visit our YouTube channel and vie how to prepare slides at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOq-8cORMd0&list=PLnO8NcEb6LFy1p0rCVBfHY0JUgBswRC4m&index=4&t=9s

If after this you still have questions feel free to email info@foldscope.com for more information!