Feature
- Powerful Camera: It is based on the XIAO ESP32S3 Sense development board with the ESP32-S3 chip and the OV2640 camera, and can transfer high-resolution microscopic images to the screen with the support of Arduino and CircuitPython.
- Micrometer-Precise Focus: The met kal-based focusing mechanism ensures precise movement of the objective lens, allowing for detailed studies. It supports motorized focus stacking for automation.
- Robust Power Design: The solid housing ensures reliability for everyday field research.
- Swappable Microscope Objectives: Easily change magnifications to observe live samples from different angles.
- Customized Firmware: Utilizes TinyML for on-the-fly image processing directly on the MCU, integrating sensors and other hardware for automated experiments.
- Easy to operate: Even a 3-year old can do it
Specification
| Parameter | Description |
| Processor | ESP32-S3 SoC with a RISC-V single-core 32-bit chip, up to 160 MHz |
| Wireless | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0/Bluetooth mesh |
| Optical Resolution | 10x, 0.3 NA Objective Lens, resolution down to 4µm |
| Interface | UART, IIC, SPI, 11x GPIO (PWM), 4x ADC, Reset button, Boot button |
| Dimensions | 150 x 100 x 50 mm |
| Power | Input voltage (VIN): 5V |
| Working Temperature | -40°C to 85°C |
Hardware Overview
Application
- Timelapse Imaging
- Education
- Environmental Research
- Field Research
- Health Monitoring
- Rapid Prototyping
Comparison with Existing Microscopes
Traditional microscopes are often limited by fixed functionalities and high costs. The XIAO Microscope's modular, open-source design offers unparalleled flexibility and affordability, making advanced microscopy accessible for educational, research, and field applications.
The objective lens can easily be swapped by unscrewing it from the RMS thread.
| Feature | openUC2 XIAO Microscope | Standard USB Microscopes |
| C amera Quality | High-resolution with ESP32-S3 camera and OV2560 sensor | Moderate resolution, varying by model |
| Focusing | Micrometer-precise motorized focusing, focus stacking supported | Manual focusing, often less precise |
| Modularity | Modular design with swappable objectives, customizable with 3D-printed parts and additional modules | Fixed design, limited customization |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi enabled with a dedicated hotspot, supports external app control | USB connection only |
| Image Processing | Onboard TinyML for real-time image processing | No onboard processing, relies on external software |
| Power Source | USB-C, can be powered by a smartphone or power bank | USB power, requires connection to a computer |
| Timelapse & Autonomous Operation | Supports timelapse imaging, autonomous operation, image storage on SD card | Typically no support for timelapse or autonomous operation |
| Field Research Suitability | Portable, robust design suitable for field research | Generally not designed for field use, less robust |
| Firmware | Open-source, customizable firmware | Proprietary firmware, limited or no customization |
| Use Cases | Suitable for education, environmental research, health monitoring, and prototyping | Basic educational or hobbyist use |
| Expandability | Supports additional components like motorized stages, external sensors | Limited expandability, mostly standalone |
| Ease of Use | Easy setup, even for beginners, with app and web interface | Simple plug-and-play setup |
| C ost | Higher, due to advanced features and modularity | Lower, but with fewer features and capabilities |
| Weight & Portability | Lightweight and compact, easy to carry in a backpack | Typically lightweight but less robust for fieldwork |
Part List
| XIAO Microscope | x1 |
| USB Type-C cable | x1 |
| Flashlight | x1 |
| slide prepared for microscopy | x2 |