This guide was made specifically for Leica programs and microscopes. The microscope we used to create this how-to guide is the Leica M205 C, consisting of z-stacking capabilities and a motorized column for effortless imaging.
Gliding Stage
The gliding stage is where the specimen is placed to be photographed.
Users can move specimens under the objective by gently gliding the whole stage forward, backward, left or right.
Users may also rotate the specimen by pressing both hands down and spinning the background plate. This plate can also be flipped to change the background from black to white and vice versa.
How to change the background on the Gliding Stage
* Note: we recommend using a dental tool (or something similar) to gently lift the background plate instead of removing the whole stage. Just be careful not to hit the objective lens! You can use the handwheel to focus out to move the lens higher before flipping the stage.
Changing the stage using a dental tool:
First, focus out the lens using the handwheel to avoid hitting the objective. Wedge a dental tool in the gap between the background plate and the gliding stage. Then, gently lift the stage.
Now you can grab the plate, flip it over, and simply place it back inside the gliding stage!
If this doesn’t work for you or you don’t have the right tools, you can change the plate by removing the stage itself.
Changing the background plate by taking the stage out:
Step 1: Push the knob on the right side of the stage upward (away from yourself).
Step 2: Turn the stage to the right until the resistance gives. Rotate it slightly further to make sure the corners are lined up.
This is what the stage looks like. When the resistance gives, it is not fully lined up. Continue rotating until it is lined up. A good way to check is to slightly lift it up and see if it slides out easily. If not, it is not lined up.
There is a small metal piece that helps the stage rotate and keep it in place.
Removing the stage when it is not lined up will cause the metal to make a ‘clinking’ noise. If this happens often, it will break.
Step 3: Once the stage has been removed, you will see an opening on the bottom. Push up against the background plate and remove it.
Step 4: This is where the background can flip between black and white. It will need to change accordingly, depending on how dark or light the specimen is.
Step 5: Line up the stage corners with the indentations on the platform and set it down. Make sure the corners are lined up, it should fit like a puzzle!
Turn the stage to the left until you can feel resistance.
Step 6: From there, lock the stage in place by pushing the knob down (toward yourself).
Now, the stage is ready to be used!