VariMag II for Pentax DSLR (K Mount)

Digital SLR (and Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens) Cameras have largely taken over the photomicrography market, quickly replacing dedicated CCD imagers. Todays cameras offer larger sensors, "Live View" on a computer screen as well as high resolution video and stills. They are useful for many other documentation tasks and the pricing is very competitive.

The VariMag II system will quickly and easily mate your DSLR or Mirrorless camera to your microscope. VariMag II provides a solid mechanical connection combined with a wide range variable magnification optical system. This research grade system was designed to be versatile, affordable, easy to setup, easy to use and to provide professional results. VariMag II will fit most all microscopes. Modular mounts are included to fit 5 different mounting types: 23mm, 30mm and 30.5mm ocular ports as well as any trinocular port fitted with a 1x "C" or "C/S" Mount.

There are additional advantages for those working in the field, for example DSLRs can be operated fully self-contained, no computer or power supply is required. The extreme versatility of the VariMag II system will allow you to connect to virtually any microscope that is available. Inexpensive interchangeable Camera Rings let you switch camera brands at a moments notice. Those working deep in the field or shipboard quickly learn to appreciate this kind of interoperability in a pinch.

Varimag II on Stereo Microscope

As its name implies VariMag is short for "Variable Magnification". VariMag II offers the largest magnification range in the industry by using dual range modular photographic optics. We include two photo eyepieces (1 Low Range and 1 High Range) as standard equipment. In addition VariMag II has an infinitely adjustable variable projection body, so there are no gaps throughout the entire magnification range. 

Varimag II on Compound Microscope

For further versatility (and future adaptability) we designed the VariMag II system with an interchangeable camera mounting ring so you can use VariMag II on cameras of any brand, just order a new inexpensive ring for the new camera. No need to purchase a whole new adapter just because you bought a new camera.

Things to Consider when purchasing a Microscope Adapter

Will it fit my Camera?

The VariMag II system includes one Camera mounting Ring of your choice. We have Rings for virtually all DSLR & Mirrorless camera models. Additional Rings are very inexpensive should you want to use more than one camera with your equipment or

if you change camera brands in the future.

Will it fit my Microscope?

The VariMag II system includes 3 modular interchangeable mounts offering 5 different mounting configurations. It will fit into any common 23mm, 30mm or 30.5mm Ocular Port. It will also fit any standard 1x "C" or "C/S" Mount. Note: Trinocular Ports must be equipped with a standard eyepiece port or a C-Mount. A C-Mount has a 1" Diameter Male thread. A 1x C-Mount is recommended for proper image size.

What about Mirrorless Cameras?

VariMag II works equally well on "mirrorless" cameras. Just select the proper camera ring and the custom length will assure there are no back-focus issues. Mirrorless cameras have the added benefit of not producing any shake when the shutter is operated due to the lack of a flip-mirror.

What about Sensor Size? 

Due to the Variable magnification optics VariMag II can handle any size sensor from APS-C to Full Frame. The scale on the VariMag body is calibrated for a Full Frame sensor. So with APS-C cameras you would apply a "crop factor" to get the indicated magnification factor, just as you would with a lens.             

Does it include a photo eyepiece?

The VariMag II system includes two Photo Eyepieces. One Low Range (1.5x-2.5x) , and one High Range (2.5x-3.5x). Giving you an overall range of 1.5x to 3.5x magnification. Many adapters require you to purchase a photo eyepiece separately, with costs typically over $500 each. Modern Photonics has been producing specialized photographic eyepieces for over 30 years. This experience makes it possible to include two quality photo eyepieces at this modest price point.

Is the magnification factor fixed or variable?

As its name implies "VariMag" is a variable magnification adapter. A variable magnification adapter offers significant advantages over a fixed magnification adapter. For example you can use variable magnification to calibrate your camera to a known scale, making measurements easier. You can use multiple magnification levels to emphasize important areas of your subject, maintain the proper image scale and frame your shots better. Why limit yourself to a single magnification?

Does it have quality optics?

The photo eyepieces included with VariMag II are guaranteed diffraction limited and use a 4 Element/2 Group optical system. The lens edges are blackened and all optics are multi-coated on each air to glass surface for better contrast, and better scratch and mold resistance.

Can I measure with it?

If you want to measure it's important to have optics that produce a flat and linear image. This is the downfall of many DSLR camera adapters. See the Ronchi Grating images below. An image of close, evenly spaced horizontal and vertical lines at high power. They show the flat, linear projection of the VariMag II Image. And with variable magnification you control the image scale. That means you can calibrate the image to a known size to make measuring even easier! 

Will it be obsolete soon?

Due to the interchangeable camera mounting rings and flexible microscope mounting solutions your VariMag II system will be usable for many years to come, even if you switch camera brands and microscopes. Whenever we improve a product we also offer an upgrade path to our previous customers so you can enjoy all of the latest features at a very nominal cost over the original purchase price. As new camera models become available new camera rings will be introduced to fit them.                          

What is the Warranty?

All new VariMag II systems include a 5 year warranty against defects in material and workmanship. We use the finest grades of materials and coatings to insure long life and to provide durable scratch and mold resistant optics. We also offer discounted replacement parts to our customers who have lost, damaged or modified a part of their system.

What is the Return Policy?

All new VariMag II systems purchased on this website can be returned in new condition within 30 days of purchase for a full refund of the purchase price (-shipping).

Is it in Stock?

We have hundreds of adapters and camera rings in stock at any one time. Orders ship the same day or next morning. If ordering an adapter elsewhere you better ask first, many adapter suppliers have lead times measured in weeks.

Are you a student, educator or buyer for an educational institution? 
Please Email us for educational discount information. Qualification is quick and easy!