February 21, 2008
Understanding Reconditioned Microscopes
Reconditioned microscopes refer to microscopes that are used and refurbished for reuse. These microscopes can prove to be as good as any other if you show a little prudence while selecting them. In fact the reason why many people choose to go for reconditioned microscopes today is that they save money while purchasing them as they are available at heavy discounts which are a times as high as 60%.
Benefits Of Purchasing Reconditioned Microscopes
Does that mean that you cannot avail the benefits that you get while purchasing new microscopes, like warranty etc.? No, of course not! Like new microscopes, used microscopes also come with one year warranty or guarantee.
Who do you intend buying that used microscope for? You are doing the right thing if it is for you teenager daughter, a budding botanist. Reconditioned microscopes are ideal for school going children. You surely won’t want to give them a brand new microscope that would make a large hole in your pocket or give them a plastic microscope of low power that would be of no use to them. Nothing better than a used microscope for school children! Take my word for it. These refurbished microscopes are also of great utility in places where chances of damage to them is high.
Features Of Reconditioned Microscopes
Used microscopes are rebuilt and refurbished to suit our needs. Their worn out parts are replaced with new parts or parts that are in good working condition, All components of the reconditioned microscopes undergo stringent tests as required by factory specifications. The microscopes are also thoroughly serviced by experts to ensure a good working instrument for you.
And of course the biggest advantage is the price. New microscopes cost a bomb; so a used microscope is a good bargain, for after all you don’t have to display it on the mantel in your sitting room, you have to use it.
Reconditioned microscopes are especially a good buy for those who do not need to use a microscope so frequently. They are also useful in fields which require repeated replacing of equipment.
Buying Reconditioned Microscopes
Most reconditioned microscopes are available with factory repair centers. These are authorized centers that not only give good services at the time of purchase but also ensure a follow up, post purchase.
Online companies also provide reconditioned microscopes such as stereo microscopes, student microscopes, surgical microscopes, research microscopes and clinical microscopes. The benefit of making an online purchase is that you can select the best brand, type and price range by doing comparison shopping from the comfort of your home.
But a word of caution here! Before buy a particular reconditioned microscope,
You should ensure the following…
- The instrument should have good and clear lenses.
- All the parts should be properly serviced.
- The center should have spare parts available for your used microscope.
- The warranty/guarantee should clearly state the post-purchase servicing offer.
If you are not so ‘clued on’ reconditioned microscopes, you can also seek the advice of an experienced person.
Some more things to bear in mind while purchasing reconditioned microscopes are…
- Never purchase a reconditioned microscope from an educational institution. Chances are that it would be worn out and quite damaged.
- Go only for a new microscope if you intend to use it for clinical research.
Nowadays you can get decent deals on used microscopes for up to $100 for common compound microscopes and $800-$8000 for advanced clinical microscopes. Till some years ago, microscopes were sold by brand popularity, but today when one can trust one’s judgment to buy sound, good quality reconditioned microscopes for a fraction of the cost of new ones; then why not go for it!
