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M2-Z45 binocular stereo zoom microscope pod, 6.7x to 45x zoom
Stereo Zoom Microscope Body

M2-Z45 Binocular Stereo Zoom Pod

Part number 91-001

The standard binocular body in the Z45 stereo zoom microscope range. 6.7×–45× continuous zoom, generous working distance, and a 76mm mount that fits every M2 stand and focus arm.

$645.00 USD · body only
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Zoom range
6.7× – 45×
Zoom ratio
6.7 : 1 continuous
Viewing head
Binocular
Mount diameter
76mm
Eyepiece size
30mm
Camera port
Not fitted — see 91-001-TR

What this stereo zoom microscope body does

The M2-Z45 is the binocular body in our stereo zoom microscope line. It gives you a genuine stereo image — two separate optical paths, one per eye — so you see depth rather than a flat picture. On solder joints, wire bonds, connector pins, and machined parts, that depth is the whole point.

Zoom is continuous from 6.7× to 45×. You are not stepping between fixed objectives; you turn the knob and the magnification follows, staying in focus through the range once you have set parfocality. That matters when you are scanning a board for a defect and then need to go straight in on it.

Where the binocular body is the right choice

Choose the binocular pod when the work is hands-on and nobody needs to capture what is on screen. Rework benches, incoming inspection, assembly stations, QC checks, lab dissection. It is lighter, less expensive, and there is one less optical path to keep clean.

If you need to record images, feed a monitor, or let a second person watch, choose the 91-001-TR trinocular pod instead. Everything else in the system is identical between the two.

Working distance and why it matters

Stereo zoom microscopes exist because compound microscopes put the objective almost on top of the specimen. With a stereo zoom you have room underneath to hold a soldering iron, drive a probe, or turn a part over. Adding the 0.5X bottom lens (95-001) roughly doubles that clearance and halves the magnification, which is the usual move when you need both hands and a tool under the optics.

Specifications

SpecificationDetail
Part number91-001
TypeBinocular stereo zoom microscope body
Zoom range6.7× – 45× with 10X eyepieces
Zoom ratio6.7 : 1, continuous
Eyepiece size30mm
Mount diameter76mm — fits 93-003 focus arm
Auxiliary lens threadAccepts 95-001 0.5X bottom lens
Camera portNone — see 91-001-TR for trinocular
Price$645.00 USD, body only
Body only

This price covers the zoom pod itself. Eyepieces, focus arm, stand, and illumination are ordered separately — that way you are not paying for a stand you already own. The Build a Quote configurator walks through each choice and totals it as you go.

What you need to complete the system

A stereo zoom pod is the optical core, not a finished microscope. To put one to work you also need a focus arm, a stand, and a pair of eyepieces. Illumination and auxiliary lenses are optional but common.

76mm Focus Arm — Z45 / Olympus SZ
76mm Focus Arm — Z45 / Olympus SZ
93-003
$145.00
Boom Stand Assembly — Standard
Boom Stand Assembly — Standard
94-015
$255.00
Track Stand
Track Stand
94-025
$175.00
10X Eyepieces — 30mm
10X Eyepieces — 30mm
92-004
$125.00
LED Ring Light for Z45
LED Ring Light for Z45
20-002
$215.00
0.5X Bottom Lens
0.5X Bottom Lens
95-001
$105.00

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a stereo zoom microscope and a compound microscope?

A stereo zoom microscope uses two separate optical paths to give a true three-dimensional view at lower magnification, with a long working distance for hands and tools. A compound microscope uses a single path at much higher magnification with almost no clearance, and is intended for slides rather than solid objects. For inspection, rework, and assembly work you want a stereo microscope.

What magnification does the M2-Z45 binocular pod give?

It zooms continuously from 6.7x to 45x using standard 10X eyepieces. Fitting 15X eyepieces (92-005) raises the range, and adding the 0.5X bottom lens (95-001) halves it while doubling working distance.

Is a stand included with the microscope body?

No. The 91-001 is the optical body only. You also need a focus arm (93-003) and a stand - either a boom stand (94-015 or 94-020) or a track stand (94-025). Selling them separately keeps the cost down if you already have a stand on the bench.

Can I add a camera to the binocular pod later?

No. A camera needs the third optical port, which only the trinocular body has. If there is any chance you will want imaging later, order the 91-001-TR trinocular pod now - the difference is $135, far less than replacing the body afterwards.

Do you sell new stereo zoom microscopes or refurbished ones?

These are new stereo zoom microscopes, built to order. M2 Associates has supplied and serviced stereo microscope systems since 1985, with parts and service available from our Sunnyvale and Southern California facilities.

How long does delivery take?

Lead time depends on the configuration and current stock. Send your configuration through the Build a Quote page and we will confirm availability with your quote.

Ready to configure a system?

Build a complete M2-Z45 binocular pod system step by step — body, eyepieces, stand, focus arm, and illumination — and we’ll review it before anything is ordered.

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