This is a fiber optic ring-light illuminator for use with a stereo microscope. The angled boss where the fiber optic bundle meets the ring-light enclosure fits into the receptacles of several manufactures stereo microscope stands. It is meant to be secured by a clamp screw or collar at that point because there are no other provisions for securing the ring-light to the microscope.

The outside diameter of the enclosure is 3.476 inches. The central aperture is 1.925 inches in diameter. The base of the enclosure has a stepped ring 3.030 inches in diameter with a shallow groove, most likely for attaching a polarizing accessory ring (not provided). The inside of the enclosure is strongly tapered. Overall length of the flexible bundle is 1 meter. The input ferrule is 0.625 inches in diameter and 0.25 inches in length where it steps up to a diameter of 0.715 inches.

The flexible armored bundle is black vinyl clad. The illuminator is in excellent condition – there do not appear to be any broken fibers – transmission is uniform all the way around the output ring. There are no manufacturer’s markings.

Photo set 1562
***MPN
***OEM Custom
***SKU*** 21584

This is a very unusual type of light pipe. Instead of using multiple glass fibers it uses a liquid-filled reflective tube with optical windows at either end. These are typically used in systems requiring high transmission in the UV range, but are often sensitive to too much heat. I am uncertain whether this bundle uses quartz windows or more conventional glass, so I cannot say for certain that this is a UV light guide.

The two ends differ quite a bit. The larger end has a strain-relief integral with the input (output ?) ferrule. The dimensions of the termination are 0.351 inches in diameter and 0.430 inches long. There is a small groove in the termination ferrule. The aperture window is 0.196 inches in diameter. The other end terminates in a stainless steel ferrule 0.273 inches in diameter and 0.787 inches in length.

The light pipe is in excellent condition with an overall length of 1.0 meters. There is a slight gap in the cladding next to the input ferrule but it appears to be intentional. I am not sure what transmission medium is used, but glycerin is typical. These are usually quite expensive to manufacture. I will try to determine the transmission range and post additional information shortly. This bundle is very similar to those currently sold by Newport, but there is no manufacturer’s marking or catalog number.

Photo set 1561
***MPN
***OEM Custom
***SKU*** 21583