A travelling microscope is a high-precision laboratory instrument used to measure small distances, such as capillary tube diameters, liquid levels, and refractive indices, with a resolution of

0.01 mm0.01 mm

0.01 mm

or

0.02 mm0.02 mm

0.02 mm

. It consists of a compound microscope mounted on a sliding horizontal and vertical rail system, featuring fine-adjustment knobs and vernier scales for accurate, multi-directional measurements. 

Key Features and Components 

• Structure: Comprises a rigid base with leveling screws, a horizontal graduated scale, a vertical pillar with a scale, and a compound microscope (eyepiece with crosshairs and objective lens).
• Movement: Moves horizontally up to

  20 cm20 cm

  20 cm and vertically up to

  17 cm17 cm

  17 cm (varies by model).
• Accuracy: Uses fine adjustment screws (fine motion knobs) for precise positioning, allowing readings to

  0.01 mm0.01 mm

  0.01 mm or

  0.02 mm0.02 mm

  0.02 mm.
• Application: Ideal for measuring small displacements, diameters, and, in conjunction with a glass slab, finding the refractive index of glass.