Point Source Microscope

PSMAlign™ software is designed to measure the distance of a reflected or transmitted focused point image relative to the PSM optical axis. It also provides detailed image size and shape through a 16-bit intensity file, which can be downloaded in CSV or PNG format. Additionally, when the microscope objective is removed, the PSM functions as an autocollimator to measure angles by converting µm shown in the software to arc seconds.

Key Features:

• Two windows for tracking image location: one displays the camera view in pixels, the other in µm, depending on magnification.
• Adjustable zoom via mouse scroll, with an orange box indicating the object space location in the camera window.
• Magenta cross marks the optical axis of the PSM, and coordinates show the image centroid relative to the cross.
• Automatic exposure control, adjustable shutter speed, and gain settings to prevent pixel saturation.
• Intensity control for two light sources within the PSM using sliders.
• The Bright laser enhances visibility under most lighting conditions, aiding alignment.

Open source and Python-based, the software allows users to modify it for specific needs. A forthcoming update will include data logging with a customizable time base.