Prior Scientific News

Prior Scientific Unveils the HF6NTK Nikon Turret Upgrade Kit

ROCKLAND, MA (December 7, 2011) - Prior Scientific has unveiled the new HF6NTK Nikon Turret Upgrade Kit. Viable for new or existing Nikon Model Ti-FLC-E motorized six position turrets, the HF6NTK enables users to upgrade their turret so the turret functions with the Prior ProScan III controller. Compatible with most major imaging software packages, the HF6NTK has speeds of up to 300ms between adjacent cubes. The upgrade also enables the motorization of the Nikon Ti without the need for the HUB-B motorization hub. The HF6NTK is compatible with Prior's PS3J100 Interactive Control Center (ICC) and can be retroverted back to the Nikon TI six position motorized turrets original manufacturers specifications.

Prior Scientific Introduces the NZ400 NanoScan Stage

ROCKLAND, MA (December 5, 2011) - Our range of NanoScan piezo focusing stage inserts has brought an unsurpassed level of performance and convenience to research imaging applications. Offering the ability to create stacks of images in the Z axis with nanometer precision at an amazingly high speed (typically 50 frames per second), the NanoScan is the perfect accessory for any three dimensional imaging application.

Prior has introduced the NZ400 NanoScan stage as a cost effective solution for large travel range Z axis acquisitions and act as a replacement stage for both the NZ250 and NZ500 stages. The NZ400 offers a maximum travel of 400µm, and can be used in most live cell imaging applications.The stage is provided as a stand alone device that can be mounted onto a wide range of XY stages including manually driven examples from the world's leading microscopy companies. The NanoScan is also available configured to fit the Prior range of ProScan motorized stages. It can be controlled directly both by using leading imaging software packages; or through analogue voltage signals generated by data acquisition cards.

Prior Scientific is Pleased To Announce The Addition of Ted Weldon
To The Prior Sales Team as the Midwest Sales Engineer

ROCKLAND, MA (November 15, 2011) - Prior Scientific continues its expansion! Prior would like to announce that Ted Weldon will be joining the Prior Scientific sales team as the Midwest Sales Engineer. Please feel free to contact Ted with any product, pricing or application questions you may have, as well as to introduce yourself or pass along your current contact information.

Ted will be handling the Midwest territory covering the states of: Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin and the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Ontario. Ted Weldon can be contacted via email at: tweldon@prior.com or by phone at 781-878-8442 ext. 3023 or by cell at 612-636-9326.  

Prior Scientific releases the LumenLED System for Fluorescence Microscopy Applications

Rockland, MA. (October 13, 2011) - Prior Scientific has released the LumenLED System for fluorescence microscopy applications. The LumenLED offers a range of advantages over conventional illumination systems. LumenLED offers two modes of operation which allows the LED’s to be optimized for specific applications. In Constant Light Mode, a photodiode is used to provide a closed loop feedback mechanism to ensure short and long term stability of illumination intensity, essential for quantitative experiments. For more general imaging applications, Constant Current Mode is available to assure maximum illumination intensity. The LumenLED is a modular system based around a two position or four position LED combiner. To maximize light efficiency the combiner is directly coupled to the fluorescence port of the microscope. The system can be mounted on to most of the major manufacturers inverted or upright microscopes using the appropriate adapters.
  A choice of up to 10 LED modules are currently available which are mounted in either a two position or a four position combiner providing up to four LED wavelengths. In addition, the combiner is coupled directly to the microscope to avoid light loss associated with fiber guides and to ensure maximum light efficiency. LED modules are exchanged in a matter of seconds so it’s very easy to modify the illumination source to match your applications. Of course, fast shuttering comes standard thanks to the nature of LED’s and a 10,000+ hour lifetime eliminates the need for bulb replacement and alignment while minimizing operating costs.
  Imaging software that already supports Prior’s filter wheels and shutters can be used to operate the LumenLED using a compatibility mode whereby the LED system emulates a filter wheel and shutter. However, an advanced SDK is also provided to facilitate software integration where more advanced features may be required.

Introducing the WSKM Incubation System from Prior Scientific

ROCKLAND, MA (Sept. 14, 2011) - The WSKM Incubation System is specifically designed to work in conjunction with the Prior ProScan H117 flat top stage. The system places the sample in the proper focus position to provide maximum microscope functionality.The WSKM Incubation System provides a compact, long term stable environment for live cell imaging. The WSKM
chamber unit is set up to handle various types of microtiter/well plates from six wells to 96 wells. Other applicable dishes including 35mm, 50mm and 60mm petri dishes, chamber slides, and chambered cover glass can be used by purchasing adapter inserts.

Prior Scientific is Pleased To Announce The Additions of Mark Allard and Ralph Cernera To The Prior Sales Team

ROCKLAND, MA (August 15, 2011) - Prior Scientific continues to grow, we would like to announce that Mark Allard and Ralph Cernera will be joining the Prior Scientific sales team! Please feel free to contact the sales representative for your region with any product, pricing or application questions you may have, as well as to introduce yourself or pass along your current contact information.

Mark Allard is the new Eastern Regional Sales Engineer whose territory contains the states of: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hamphsire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and the Canadian provinces of Ontario (Toronto) and Quebec. Mark can be contacted via email at mallard@prior.com or by phone at 781-878-8442 ext. 3009 or by cell at 508-728-3465.

Ralph Cernera will be joining Prior Scientific as the Western Region Sales Manager covering the states of: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming and the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Ralph can be contacted via email at: rcernera@prior.com or by phone at 781-878-8442 ext. 3029 or by cell at 408-858-8232.

As many of you may know, Mark Mistretta has moved on from Prior Scientific. We are currently searching for a Midwest Region Sales Engineer. Until this position is filled, Prior's National Sales Manager Dennis Doherty will be handling the Midwest territory covering the states of: Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin and the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Ontario. You can also contact Mark Allard and Ralph Cernera for information as well as we are all part of the Prior Sales Team. Dennis can be contacted via email at: ddoherty@prior.com or by phone at 781-878-8442 ext. 3017 or by cell at 617-834-9586.

PL200 Slide Loader featured in BioScience Technology Magazine

ROCKLAND, MA (July 22, 2011) - Prior Scientific's PL200 Slide Loader was featured in a recent Issue of BioScience Technology in an article title "High-Throughput Megaslide Scanning". Please click here to download the article.

Introducing the PL220 Automatic Oiler System for
High Resolution Screening

ROCKLAND, MA (May 24, 2011) - As an extension to Prior's successful automatic PL200 slide loader, we are pleased to announce the introduction of an automatic oiler to provide even greater levels of automation and flexibility in the field of optical microscopy.The PL220 automatic oiler is ideal for applications in Cytology and Cytogenetics, or other high throughput applications where high magnification, high NA objectives are used. The system provides a highly controlled, automatic system for dispensing immersion oil onto the surface of the slide. Control is via USB or RS232 and a variety of parameters can be optimised for specific applications. The unit can be fitted to all leading microscopes for use with the Prior slide loader or it can be used as a stand alone system for OEM applications.

Introducing the ProScan III™ H117P2NN Flat Top Stage for
Nikon Ti Inverted Microscopes

ROCKLAND, MA (May 5, 2011) -Prior Scientific is proud to introduce the H117P2NN flat top stage for the Nikon Ti series of inverted microscopes. While the H117P2NN is ideal for all high precision biomedical and material science scanning operations, specific attention was given to designing the H117P2NN to assist the researcher who is doing prolonged live cell studies. The newest version of Prior’s H117P2NN stage maximizes access to the nosepiece for correction collar adjustment. Miniaturized drive boxes occupy a fraction of the space of previous models providing easy access to the nosepiece area of the microscope. By mounting all of the drive components below the top plate, the H117P2NN also provides easy access for micromanipulators, environmental chambers and robotic loaders. The stage allows for scanning using a very broad range of sample holders, including microtitre plates, slide holders, petri dishes, well plates, flasks, haemocytometers and metallurgical sample holders. Stages can be driven by the Prior series of motor controllers or compatible systems in existing OEM configurations.

Prior’s ProScan III™ Stages are now Compatible with Zeiss AxioVision

ROCKLAND, MA (April 14, 2011) - With the current release of the Zeiss AxioVision 4.8.2 and MicroToolBox (MTB) version 1.8.1, users of AxioVision can now select Prior Scientific stages in combination with the ProScan III stepper motor controller. In close collaboration with Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH, new controller firmware has been developed by Prior to enable direct stage programming through AxioVision. ProScan III and AxioVision compatibility is assured by installation of a stage configuration file for Windows. This file is available as a free download from the Prior website. Hardware components including the stage controller are automatically detected by the MTB on startup. Prior scanning stages and the ProScan III controller can then be selected from the hardware configuration menu providing access to a large range of stage options for different Zeiss microscopes. Tests of Prior stages at Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH have proven the excellent precision and stability of the ProScan III automation series. The new solution is available through Carl Zeiss subsidiaries and dealers worldwide.

Prior Scientific Introduces the H160ZFP Foot Pedal System

ROCKLAND, MA (March 7, 2011) - Prior Scientific's H160ZFP Foot Pedal System provides a provides a cost-effective remote focusing solution for a variety of applications. Units can be fitted on virtually any new or existing microscope with coaxial coarse and fine focus. The H160ZFP improves ergonomics while reducing the risk of repetitive stress injuries. Units are simple and easy to operate and provides quick, precise, maintainable focus at various speeds. The small footprint allows optimal placement on desk or bench top. The economical design provides a cost-effective remote focusing solution that provides hands free operation for surgical procedures and similiar applications.

Prior Scientific Introduces the Z Axis Motorized Z Stages Series

ROCKLAND, MA (December 30, 2010) - The innovative Z axis motorized stage series from Prior Scientific offers a wide range of positioning solutions for a variety of applications. Many configurable options are available from a simple motorized linear axis to a full three axis stage system. This flexibility is ideal for the requirements of customized solutions, particularly for OEM applications. Available in several versions, the Z axis motorized stage compliments the accuracy and repeatability expected from Prior positioning systems and is capable of supporting any of Prior Scientifics upright range of stages.

Prior Scientific Introduces Incubation Chambers for ProScan H117 and NanoScanZ Nanopositioning Piezo Z Stages

ROCKLAND, MA (December 6, 2010) - Prior Scientific is proud to introduce a new line of incubation chambers for ProScan H117 and NanoScanZ Nanopositioning Piezo Z stages. The incubation chambers have been engineered to incorporate an anti Z-axis drift mechanism ensuring that thermal drift during long term experiments is eliminated. Designed to replace the sample holder and seamlessly integrate into the ProScan H117 and NanoScanZ Nanopositioning Piezo Z product range, the chambers also feature CLEAR Vision technology where the objective heater system heats the region of the chamber where the sample is placed. The sample is then covered with an optically clear glass that is also heated to prevent the build up of condensation and ensuring stable temperatures at the region of interest. A range of controllers are available to control both the temperature and also the CO2 concentrations.

Prior Scientific Introduces the HTHE2 Inverted Stage with
Integrated Incubation System

ROCKLAND, MA (December 6, 2010) - The HTHE2 ProScan Incubated Stage from Prior Scientific incorporates a large stage heater which minimizes focus drift and provides heating for microtitre plates. Every well in the microtitre plate is held at an even temperature wherever they are positioned in a multipoint experiment. The HTHE2 utilizes a full range of specimen holders, enabling the examination of a wide range of specimen types including chamber and glass slides, multi-well plates and 35-60mm Petri-dishes. The linear encoded stage features a travel range of 114mm x 75mm and also offers adjustable limit switches and an anti-backlash mechanism.

Prior Scientific Introduces the ZDeck Quick Adjust Platform System for Nikon FN1 Microscopes

ROCKLAND, MA (September 29, 2010) - Prior Scientific has announced that the ZDeck Quick Adjust Platform System is now compatible with the Nikon FN1 Microscopes. The ZDeck Quick Adjust Platform System increases productivity by allowing the user to image multiple areas of interest with unsurpassed speed and precision.

Prior Scientific Introduces the LF210 Inspection Station

ROCKLAND, MA (August 30, 2010) - The LF210 Inspection Station by Prior Scientific is an automated inspection platform suitable for most industrial samples with moderate to high reflectivity. Samples placed on the Inspection Station’s motorized stage may be inspected manually using the ProScan joystick or automatically inspected using one of many imaging software packages commercially available. The heart of the LF210 inspection station is Prior’s LF210 Laser Autofocus module. The module combines the latest in intelligent microprocessor control and advanced optics to provide the fastest and most reliable real time laser autofocus available. Ideally suited for reflective specimens,the optical design eliminates the need to manually adjust the focus trim and loop gain (which is done automatically in the processor) resulting in a dramatic improvement in throughput. The intelligent digital control automatically senses when the sample has moved out of the field of view and stops the focus drive, while LED’s give a clear presentation of the focus status. Combined with the LF100K digipot/keypad the LF210 provides a microstepping drive for the Inspection Station’s focus motor. The Inspection Station comes standard with Prior’s high precision motorized XY stage with 40 nanometer resolution, Mitutoyo VMU assembly with four position nosepiece, 10X, 20X, 50X and 100X objectives and a powerful 150 watt fiber optic illuminator. Wafer chucks and mask holders are available as well as custom holders. Software included with the system includes the ability to create simple patterns and to jog the system in X and Y. An SDK is provided for those users who want to implement the Prior controls within existing software. The entire system is compatible with most existing image analysis software packages.

Prior Scientific Introduces the HP1139 Micromanipulator Mounting Plate for BXWI and IX series stages

ROCKLAND, MA (August 12, 2010) - Prior Scientific is proud to introduce the HP1139 Micromanipulator Mounting Plate for both the BXWI and the IX series flat top stages. Providing access from the front, left and right sides of the stage, the HP1139 mounting plate maximizes the area available for mounting micromanipulators. The HP1139 comes with the standard ¼-20 UNC tapped holes on 1” centers.

Prior Scientific Introduces the ZDeck Quick Adjust Platform System for Olympus BX51WI and BX61WI Microscopes

ROCKLAND, MA (July 15, 2010) - Prior Scientific is proud to introduce the ZDeck Quick Adjust Platform System for Olympus BX51WI and BX61WI microscopes. The ZDeck Quick Adjust Platform System increases productivity by allowing the user to image multiple areas of interest with unsurpassed speed and precision. The ZDeck lowers quickly and easily via the use of pneumatic pistons, providing easy access for loading and unloading of samples. No tools are required for height adjustment, simplifying the transition of changing between a thin sample and whole animal imaging heights. Condenser and pillar spacers are included with the system to allow for Koehler illumination at a wide range of focus heights. The system incorporates a custom Prior Scientific ProScan™ series high precision motorized stage which provides submicron repeatability and smooth movement. The high precision motorized stage is controlled by the new ProScan™III controller and PS3J100 joystick which provide ultra-fine control via dual digipots. Oversized plates are provided on both sides of the sample area for mounting micromanipulators. The ProScan™ series stage can also be equipped with encoders for applications that require the ultimate in high precision. The ZDeck System is compatible with 6mm or 1/4-20 vibration isolation tables.

Prior Scientific is recognized for its contributions at the opening of the
UNC-Olympus Research Imaging Center at UNC at Chapel Hill Campus

CHAPEL HILL, NC (June 24, 2010) - Prior Scientific is proud to be recognized as a contributor to the brand new UNC-Olympus Research Imaging Center at the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill. The new facility is designed to be one of the world’s most sophisticated research centers devoted to life science imaging. The new UNC-Olympus Research Imaging Center will provide researchers with the most advanced microscopes, software, illumination systems and automation equipment available. Cell biology, neuroscience, pharmacology and other specialties that contribute to the study of cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease and other conditions will be the main areas of research conducted at the facility.

The UNC-Olympus Research Imaging Centers Co-director, James E. Bear, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Early Career Scientist of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute stated "Prior Scientific is a critical partner in the new UNC-Olympus Imaging Research Center. Their metal halide illumination sources like the Lumen PRO200 provide outstanding brightness and stability for all types of imaging. The precision stages offer excellent repeatability and reliability for the multi-position time-lapse experiments that are happening nearly around the clock in the Center."

Prior Scientific launches the redesigned
Lumen 200 Fluorescence Illumination Systems

ROCKLAND, MA., (May 4, 2010) - Prior Scientific is proud to relaunch the redesigned Lumen 200 Fluorescence Illumination Systems in a new black color scheme. The Lumen 200's revised black color scheme coordinates with the highly successful ProScan™III Microscope Automation System that was launched in April of 2010.The Lumen systems retain all the same specifications as previous models which provide unrivaled versatility and illumination power. For more information on the Lumen series of illumination systems please click here.

Prior Scientific's PL-200 Slide Loader is now supported by
Media Cybernetic's ImagePro® 7.0.1 software

ROCKLAND, MA., (April 19, 2010) - The PL-200 is now fully controlled using Image-Pro 7.0.1 making it now possible to truly automate the digital imaging of microscopic specimens using precision scanning stages and automated loading and unloading of samples. The new hardware compatibility included with all Plus versions of Image-Pro 7.0.1, using Scope-Pro, make it possible to automate simple and advanced routines either manually operated or using Image-Pro’s exceptional scripting language. Macro writers have an opportunity to create fully automated slide handling systems. The supported versions include Plus, Inspector, MDA, 3D, and AMS. The PL-200 is designed to be compatible with the widest range of upright and inverted microscopes in routine use today, by utilizing a space saving rotating arm design combined with a multiple sensory based gripper system to interface with Prior's ProScan II series of motorized stages. This combination ensures a safe and reliable high speed slide transfer routine. Each 200 slide capacity scan, transfer, reload, or rescan can be seamlessly handled and easily configured and reconfigured using Image-Pro’s Scope-Pro hardware interface. Simple color coded slides tell you where slides are located in the rack, and by a simple click of the mouse a slide can be easily moved into an accurate position. This driver is included with every Plus version of Image-Pro Plus 7.0.1 and can be accessed from the Scope-Pro Hardware Configuration and can also be accessed from the support site using the following link http://support.mediacy.com/scopedrivers.asp.

Prior Scientific Introduces the
ProScan™III Microscope Automation Systems

ROCKLAND, MA., (April 5, 2010) - Prior proudly introduces the ultimate advancement in microscope automation control - the ProScan™III Microscope Automation System. The compact and modular design is capable of controlling up to 16 axes including a motorized stage, focus drive, three filter wheels and three shutters with the speed, accuracy and precision required by todays highly
automated and demanding applications. ProScan™III’s improved processor provides up to a 250% increase in stage speed. Designed to have a small footprint, the system saves valuable workspace and eases the pressure on the limited space constraints in modern labs. Communication to the controller has been improved with a true USB with direct HID connection available making the unit both Windows and Mac compatible. The programmable TLL can control the movements a stage, focus motor, three filter wheels and three shutters for fast analogue interfacing and camera control. The Interactive Control Center (ICC) provides centralized manual control of all equipment. The screen provides positional feedback while the joystick, buttons and digipots control accessories such as: a stage, focus drive, filter wheels, and shutters. New features in the center allow the user to measure distances, label filter wheel positions with dye names (e.g., DAPI, FITC, etc.) and take fine control of the stage for intricate movements. ProScan™III is ideally suited to the most demanding imaging applications which require high accuracy, speed and repeatability, with the option to encode all axes.

Prior Scientific's award winning Slide Loader System is now
capable of handling 2x3 and 1x3 slides.

ROCKLAND, MA., (February 22, 2010) - The Prior Scientific PL-100 Slide Loader is an innovative high speed automated slide loading system that is ideal for a variety of high throughput microscopy applications. The PL-100 is now capable of handling up to 100 - 2x3 slides (or 200 - 1x3 slides in the PL-200 model) which are housed in two racks of 50. Designed to be compatible with the widest range of microscopes, the PL-100 utilizes a space saving rotating arm design combined with a multiple sensory based gripper system to interface with Prior's ProScan II series of motorized stages to ensure a safe and reliable high speed slide transfer routine. For more information on the PL-100 please click here...

Prior Scientific introduces the new H117P2IX Flat Top Motorized Stage for Olympus IX series Microscopes

ROCKLAND, MA., (December 8, 2009) - Prior is proud to introduce the H117P2IX flat top stage for the the Olympus IX series of inverted microscopes. While the H117P2IX is ideal for all high precision biomedical and material science scanning operations, specific attention was given to designing the H117P2IX to assist the researcher who is doing prolonged live cell studies. The newest version of Prior’s H117P2IX stage maximizes access to the nosepiece for correction collar adjustment. Miniaturized drive boxes occupy a fraction of the space of previous models providing easy access to the nosepiece area of the microscope.

Prior Scientific introduces the NIKRFK Focus Drive for
Nikon Microscopes

ROCKLAND, MA., (December 4, 2009) - Prior Scientific has introduced the NIKRFK Focus Drive with integral electronic clutch specifically designed for the Nikon Ti, 80i and FN1 microscopes.

Prior Scientific introduces the ES10ZE Focus Controller

ROCKLAND, MA., (October 21, 2009) - Prior Scientific has introduced a focus only control system for modern microscopes. Ideally suited to those applications involving extended focus or Z-stacking, the ES10ZE offers a low cost, compact, yet powerful system to automate a microscope focusing mechanism.

Prior Scientific's PL-200 Slide Loader featured in the July Issue of Vision Systems Design

ROCKLAND, MA., (July 14, 2009) - The July 2009 issue of Vision Systems Design magazine features an article spotlighting the benefits and features of the award winning PL-200 Slide Loader. Please click here to read the full article.

Prior Scientific introduces the new H117 ProScan II Flat Top Motorized Stage for Nikon MA200 Microscopes

ROCKLAND, MA., (July 13, 2009) - The highest precision motorized stages from Prior Scientific are now available for Nikon's MA200 newest industrial microscope. The ergonomic, energy efficient and space saving design of the MA200 combined with Prior Scientific's newest H117 motorized stage allows automated scanning and inspection of diverse industrial samples such as metals, ceramics, and polymers. Additionally, the H117 motorized stage provides automatic measurement and grain analysis as well as stitching and analysis of larger samples when used with many image analysis software packages with drivers for Prior stages. The H117 stage for the MA200 was designed to work with Nikon's standard round holder inserts as well as a broad range of sample holders manufactured by Prior Scientific, including holders such as 1.0", 1.25", 1.5" and 2.0" diameter metallurgical sample holders, solid aluminum and glass plates.

Prior Scientific's PL-200 Slide Loader is now supported by Objective Imaging's Surveyor software with Turboscan

ROCKLAND, MA., (May 27, 2009) - Prior Scientific has announced that the Prior Scientific PL-200 Slide Loader is now fully supported by Objective Imaging's Surveyor software with TurboScan. TurboScan allows the user to scan an entire slide in seconds and create near perfect-image mosaics at camera frame rates for up to 200 slides at a time. The PL-200 Slide Loader System is compatible with Prior's ProScan II stage to ensure the highest levels of precision and accuracy when interfacing with the software packages. The PL-200 is the ultimate high volume, cost effective tool for image acquisition, processing, and analysis.

Prior Scientific's PL-200 Slide Loader is now supported by Molecular Devices MetaMorph image acquisition and analysis software

ROCKLAND, MA., (May 26, 2009) - Prior Scientific has announced that the Prior Scientific PL-200 Slide Loader is now fully supported by Molecular Devices MetaMorph image acquisition and analysis software. MetaMorph from Molecular Devices offers a flexible and powerful tool for image acquisition, processing and analysis. The PL-200 is now fully controlled using MetaMorph. A single USB connection to the PL-200 ensures simple system integration.

Prior Scientific's PL-200 Slide Loader System is named the winner in the 2009 Laboratory Equipment Readers' Choice Awards!

ROCKLAND, MA., (February 13, 2009) - The Prior Scientific PL-200 Slide Loader has been named the winning product in the prestigious 2009 Laboratory Equipment Readers' Choice awards in the automation category. The PL-200 is a significant step forward for laboratory automation in the field of microscopy. It is designed to integrate with Prior's H101A ProScan II motorized stage, thus providing the highest level of automation for slide scanning applications in the market today. With a capacity of 200 slides, it is now feasible to leave an automated microscope unattended for many hours which means greatly improved productivity. The PL-200 together with a ProScan II stage provides unmatched accuracy and precision, plus greatly reduced slide scanning times thanks to complete automation of the slide scanning process.