Relocation accuracy on HOME computerized microscopes

A major practical advantage of the HOME (highly optimized microscope environment) computerized microscope is the facility for relocating cells or other microscopic objects. Features can be marked directly on the microscope image using a mouse-driven cursor, and an interactive finder can then be used to relocate the marked features. Tests on a prototype HOME microscope have shown that positions can be relocated with an accuracy of standard deviation (SD) < 7 microm. The marked features could also be relocated on a second HOME microscope, although with somewhat reduced accuracy (standard deviations of < 17 microm). The system provides a very user-friendly environment for tasks requiring relocation of microscopic objects.