RS232 Control of a Zeiss Axiovert 200M

[Philip Ershler]

Hi,
        I have an ImageJ project where I need to control the focus (Z-Axis)  
on a Zeiss Axiovert 200M from the RS232 connection on the scope. I  
have goggled around and found the MTB (Microscope Tool Box).  
References I find to it mention an SDK, but the software that came  
with the scope originally has MTB 2004 but has nothing that looks like  
an SDK. I need to find either an SDK for the scope or at a minimum  
find the RS232 serial protocols to control the scope. Does anyone have  
suggestions?

Thanks, Phil

[Robert Baer]

Micromanager is an ImageJ-based interface for various microscope components
which includes drivers for the Zeiss Axiovert 200M.  See
http://www.micro-manager.org/ for more information.

HTH,
Rob


----- Original Message -----
From: "Philip Ershler" <[hidden email]>
To: <[hidden email]>
Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2009 4:45 PM
Subject: RS232 Control of a Zeiss Axiovert 200M

> Hi,
> I have an ImageJ project where I need to control the focus (Z-Axis)  on a
> Zeiss Axiovert 200M from the RS232 connection on the scope. I  have
> goggled around and found the MTB (Microscope Tool Box).  References I find
> to it mention an SDK, but the software that came  with the scope
> originally has MTB 2004 but has nothing that looks like  an SDK. I need to
> find either an SDK for the scope or at a minimum  find the RS232 serial
> protocols to control the scope. Does anyone have  suggestions?
>
> Thanks, Phil
>

[Grant Harris]

One option is MicroManager.  If you are looking for a solution using only
Java, I have a system I call CamAcqJ which, among other things, controls the
focus and filter turret of an Axiovert 200M, and can easily be
modified/extended.  If you are interested in learning more, contact me.  
Cheers,
Grant Harris, MBL.