The refurbished Nikon TMS inverted microscope from American Instrument Exchange is a versatile laboratory instrument for cell culture observation, tissue culture research, and routine biological microscopy. Featuring Nikon's CF optical system, four included objectives, and transmitted-light halogen illumination, this microscope offers a practical solution for laboratories requiring dependable observation of living cells and biological specimens.
This Nikon TMS includes 4x, 10x phase, 20x phase, and 40x objectives, along with 10x eyepieces. The combination provides nominal total magnifications of 40x, 100x, 200x, and 400x, allowing researchers to move between broad specimen surveys and more detailed examinations of cellular morphology.
The inverted optical design is especially useful for observing adherent cells through the bottoms of compatible culture dishes, flasks, and other laboratory vessels. The included phase objectives are designed for enhanced contrast when used with matching phase-contrast components.
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange, this Nikon TMS includes a 90-day warranty.
Key Features
Nikon TMS inverted biological microscope for tissue culture and research
Includes 4x, 10x phase, 20x phase, and 40x objectives
10x eyepieces for a nominal magnification range of 40x to 400x
Nikon CF finite-conjugate optical system
Four-position revolving objective nosepiece as listed for this unit
Phase-contrast objectives for compatible contrast configurations
Manual focusing mechanism for precise specimen observation
Compact, durable construction for laboratory workstations
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included from American Instrument Exchange
Overview
The Nikon TMS is a well-established inverted microscope designed for routine tissue culture observation and biological research. Its straightforward construction, reliable mechanical operation, and practical optical design have made it a useful instrument in cell culture laboratories for decades.
Unlike an upright microscope, the Nikon TMS positions its objectives beneath the specimen stage. This arrangement allows researchers to observe adherent cells through the bottoms of compatible culture vessels without transferring samples to conventional microscope slides.
This particular Nikon TMS is equipped with four objectives, including two identified phase objectives. The 4x objective provides a broad view of specimen areas, while the 10x and 20x objectives support routine cell culture observation. The 40x objective offers higher magnification for examining individual cells and visible structural details.
The microscope uses Nikon's CF finite optical system, which provides compatibility with appropriately specified Nikon objectives and optical accessories.
A revolving nosepiece allows convenient magnification changes, while the manual focusing mechanism and adjustable halogen illumination support repeated specimen inspections.
For laboratories seeking a straightforward inverted microscope without the complexity of automated imaging equipment, this refurbished Nikon TMS offers an economical solution.
Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Nikon
Model
TMS
AIE SKU
4737B SCOPE
Microscope Type
Inverted biological microscope
Optical System
Nikon CF finite-conjugate
Viewing System
Binocular
Included Eyepieces
10x
Objective 1
4x
Objective 2
10x phase
Objective 3
20x phase
Objective 4
40x
Nominal Total Magnification
40x, 100x, 200x, 400x
Objective Nosepiece
Four-position revolving nosepiece, per AIE listing
Illumination
Transmitted-light halogen
Lamp Power
20 watts
Brightness Control
Adjustable
Observation Methods
Brightfield; phase contrast with matching components
Phase-Contrast Objectives
10x and 20x
Phase Slider / Annuli
Installed configuration to be verified
Condenser
Type and installed accessories to be confirmed
Stage
Inverted microscope specimen stage
Focusing
Manual focusing mechanism
Digital Camera
Not listed as included
Electrical Requirements
Verify supplied voltage configuration
Exterior Dimensions
Verify for supplied configuration
Weight
Verify for supplied configuration
Condition
Refurbished
Warranty
90 days from American Instrument Exchange
Specifications compiled from manufacturer literature, distributor technical references, and American Instrument Exchange product information. Included objective magnifications and eyepieces are based on the AIE listing. Exact phase-contrast accessories should be confirmed before purchase.
Optical Performance & Imaging Capabilities
The Nikon TMS uses an inverted optical system designed for convenient examination of specimens maintained in laboratory culture vessels.
Its Nikon CF finite-conjugate optics provide a practical platform for biological microscopy. This optical system differs from the infinity-corrected Nikon CFI60 optics used in newer Eclipse microscope models, an important consideration when selecting replacement objectives or accessories.
The included 4x objective is useful for surveying larger specimen areas, locating cell colonies, and evaluating general culture distribution.
The 10x phase objective provides intermediate magnification for examining cell growth and morphology. When equipped with matching phase-contrast illumination components, it can enhance the visibility of transparent, unstained cells.
The 20x phase objective provides greater magnification for observing cellular characteristics and smaller specimen details. Phase contrast can be particularly valuable at this magnification when monitoring living cell cultures.
The included 40x objective supports closer examination of individual cells and visible structural features.
With the supplied 10x eyepieces, the microscope provides nominal total magnifications ranging from 40x to 400x.
The actual phase-contrast capabilities depend on the installed condenser, phase slider, and matching annular components.
Objectives, Illumination & Accessories
This Nikon TMS includes four objectives: 4x, 10x phase, 20x phase, and 40x.
The 4x objective is useful for low-magnification specimen surveys. The 10x and 20x phase objectives are designed for use with compatible phase-contrast components, while the 40x objective provides higher magnification for closer specimen inspection.
The microscope is listed with a four-position revolving objective nosepiece, allowing the four objectives to be selected during routine observation. Since Nikon's historical documentation describes other nosepiece arrangements, the installed configuration should be verified for this particular unit.
The included 10x eyepieces provide a practical magnification range for tissue culture and biological research.
Illumination is supplied by a 20-watt halogen transmitted-light system with adjustable brightness. This allows researchers to optimize illumination for different objectives and specimen characteristics.
The TMS platform supports compatible long-working-distance condensers, phase sliders, and stage accessories. However, these optional components should not be assumed to be included unless confirmed.
A digital camera, photographic attachment, and fluorescence illumination system are not specified as included.
Common Applications
The Nikon TMS is particularly useful for laboratories performing routine cell culture monitoring, tissue culture research, and biological sample observation.
Researchers can use the microscope to evaluate culture confluence, inspect adherent cell morphology, identify changes in cell populations, and monitor general culture development.
The included low- and higher-magnification objectives make it practical for moving between broad specimen surveys and more detailed observation of individual cells.
The phase objectives can be useful for observing living, unstained biological specimens when the appropriate contrast components are installed.
Additional applications include biotechnology research, cancer biology, pharmaceutical development, academic cell biology, and laboratory teaching.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Nikon TMS is appropriate for academic research laboratories, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical research facilities, and laboratories conducting routine cell culture work.
Its compact construction makes it practical for workstations where researchers regularly inspect specimens removed from incubators or other controlled environments.
The microscope can complement CO2 incubators used for maintaining mammalian cell cultures and biosafety cabinets used for aseptic sample handling.
The TMS may also be suitable for installation inside compatible biosafety cabinets, provided its dimensions and positioning do not interfere with airflow or safe operating practices.
For laboratories that do not require advanced digital imaging or automated microscopy, this Nikon TMS provides a straightforward option for routine biological observation.
Refurbishment & Testing
American Instrument Exchange refurbishes and tests used laboratory microscopes before shipment to help ensure dependable operation.
For this Nikon TMS, relevant inspection procedures include examining the four supplied objectives, checking optical clarity, and evaluating the focusing mechanism for smooth and precise operation.
The objective nosepiece, specimen stage, eyepieces, illumination assembly, and accessible mechanical components are inspected for proper functionality.
The 20-watt halogen illumination system is evaluated for consistent operation and appropriate brightness adjustment.
Because this configuration includes phase objectives, customers requiring operational phase-contrast microscopy should request confirmation that the appropriate phase slider, annuli, and condenser components are installed and functioning.
The microscope is cleaned and evaluated under representative laboratory conditions before shipment.
A 90-day warranty is included from American Instrument Exchange.
Shipping & Installation
American Instrument Exchange prepares refurbished microscopes for shipment from its Haverhill, Massachusetts facility.
Careful packaging helps protect the objectives, eyepieces, focusing mechanisms, specimen stage, and other sensitive optical components during transportation.
Removable accessories may be secured separately to reduce the risk of shipping damage.
After delivery, the Nikon TMS should be installed on a stable, level laboratory work surface with appropriate electrical access.
Users should verify that all supplied objectives and accessories are correctly installed before beginning routine specimen observation.
Laboratories planning to operate the microscope inside a biosafety cabinet should review cabinet dimensions and airflow requirements before installation.
Related Laboratory Equipment
American Instrument Exchange offers additional refurbished microscopes for tissue culture, biological research, and laboratory inspection.
Researchers comparing Nikon TMS configurations may also consider the Nikon TMS-F inverted microscope, which includes a photographic port for compatible imaging equipment.
Laboratories interested in a newer generation of Nikon inverted microscope can explore the Nikon Eclipse Ts2, featuring Nikon's CFI60 infinity-corrected optical system and LED illumination.
Together, these instruments can support cell culture preparation, incubation, observation, and routine biological research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which objectives are included with this Nikon TMS?
This unit includes 4x, 10x phase, 20x phase, and 40x objectives, along with 10x eyepieces.
What magnification range does this microscope provide?
With the supplied objectives and 10x eyepieces, the microscope provides nominal total magnifications of 40x, 100x, 200x, and 400x.
Does this Nikon TMS support phase-contrast microscopy?
The microscope includes 10x and 20x phase objectives. Operational phase contrast requires matching condenser and annular components, which should be verified for this unit.
How does this Nikon TMS differ from the Nikon TMS-F?
This Nikon TMS includes four objectives, including 10x and 20x phase objectives. The TMS-F listing identifies a photographic port for compatible camera attachments. Both are inverted microscopes designed for biological research and tissue culture observation.
Can this microscope be used for live cell culture observation?
Yes. Its inverted optical design is useful for examining living cells in compatible culture vessels. Appropriate phase-contrast components can improve visibility of transparent, unstained specimens.
Does this microscope include a digital camera?
A digital camera is not specified as included. Customers requiring digital imaging should contact American Instrument Exchange about compatible options.
What warranty is included with this refurbished microscope?
A 90-day warranty is included from American Instrument Exchange. The microscope is refurbished and tested before shipment.
CLICK HERE to see the Nicon TMS Inverted Microscope on our YouTube channel
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Equipment
Ensure Accuracy, Safety, and Dependable Performance Across Applications
At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished laboratory equipment undergoes a rigorous, multi-point testing protocol to ensure optimal performance, operational safety, and long-term reliability. Whether the equipment is destined for research, diagnostics, quality control, or production environments, our thorough inspection and testing process is designed to meet the highest standards of laboratory excellence.
Why Testing Used Lab Equipment Is Essential
Before any refurbished laboratory equipment is returned to service, it must be carefully tested to verify:
• Functional integrity and operational performance
• Setpoint accuracy and repeatability (where applicable)
• User interface responsiveness and control features
Proper testing reduces the risk of equipment failure, measurement inaccuracies, or user hazards—helping to ensure consistent results in clinical, academic, biotech, and industrial labs.
Our standardized lab equipment testing procedures are tailored to each equipment type, ensuring every unit meets manufacturer specifications and industry benchmarks.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Equipment
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Examine equipment housing for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage
• Check ports, power cords, and exterior components for tampering or deterioration
• Verify that internal and external parts (racks, shelves, connectors, accessories) are present and undamaged
2. Functional Startup and Operational Testing
• Power on the equipment and verify startup diagnostics
• Confirm functionality of displays, buttons, switches, and control panels
• Run basic functions to confirm proper response and behavior under standard operating conditions
3. Testing and Performance Verification
• Test internal sensors or control systems using industry-standard tools
• Perform operational tests to validate accuracy and consistency
• Verify key performance specifications such as temperature control, timing, speed, or measurement outputs, depending on equipment type
4. Mechanical and Electrical System Testing
• Evaluate motors, pumps, fans, or other moving parts for smooth operation
• Inspect and test wiring, relays, fuses, and circuit boards for safety and reliability
• Test power delivery and grounding compliance
5. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Ensure equipment is grounded and insulated to meet laboratory safety standards
• Test alarms, interlocks, emergency stops, or safety shutdown systems if applicable
6. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation
• Perform extended runtime testing
• Document operational logs, testing results, and any repairs or adjustments made
• Complete a final inspection, thorough cleaning, and packaging for delivery
Trusted Quality from American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of experience in laboratory equipment refurbishment, American Instrument Exchange is committed to delivering certified, lab-ready instruments backed by expert testing. Our testing protocols ensure that each piece of equipment—regardless of type—is safe, accurate, and dependable from day one.
Whether you're equipping a startup lab or expanding a high-throughput facility, you can count on our refurbished laboratory equipment to perform with precision and reliability.
Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Equipment from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every piece of used laboratory equipment we offer undergoes a multi-step refurbishment process. Whether it's an analytical balance, centrifuge, freezer, oven, or any other essential lab instrument, our goal is to restore each unit to peak performance—ensuring accuracy, safety, and long-term reliability in scientific, clinical, industrial, and academic environments.
Why Choose Refurbished Lab Equipment from American Instrument Exchange?
• Thoroughly tested for performance, precision, and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• A cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through equipment reuse and waste reduction
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every instrument and system refurbished at American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, industry-aligned process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Complete visual and structural inspection for cosmetic damage, wear, or corrosion
• Mechanical assessment of hinges, seals, fasteners, motors, and moving parts
• Missing components and damaged items are documented for repair or replacement
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Full internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, lab-safe solutions
• Removal of biological, chemical, or particulate contamination
• Disassembly and cleaning of removable parts such as trays, shelves, and filters
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair
• Replacement or repair of worn or broken mechanical parts
• Evaluation and servicing of control panels, sensors, switches, and displays
• Testing and repair of electrical wiring, fuses, circuit boards, and power supplies
4. Functional System Testing
• Assessment of all major functions specific to the equipment type (e.g., speed, temperature, force, weight, timing)
• Operation of control interfaces, programming menus, and digital displays
• Verification of stabilization time, responsiveness, and user input reliability
5. Testing and Performance Verification
• Testing of internal sensors, controllers, and measurement systems using certified tools
• Multi-point testing to ensure repeatability, accuracy, and performance consistency
• Confirmation of user-defined setpoints, timing sequences, or programmable cycles
6. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Testing of safety interlocks, alarms, and over-limit protection systems (as applicable)
• Electrical safety inspections, including grounding and insulation verification
7. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation
• Full operational testing under simulated lab conditions
• Completion of performance benchmarks, testing results, and repair logs
• Final cleaning and visual inspection
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of experience in the laboratory equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted leader in high-quality refurbished lab instruments. Our refurbishment protocols ensure that every piece of equipment we sell is lab-ready—offering the precision, performance, and durability your team can count on.
Whether you’re outfitting a new lab or expanding an existing operation, choose American Instrument Exchange for tested, warrantied, and cost-effective laboratory equipment.
Warranty Information
All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,
Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”
Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.
Return & Cancellation Policy
American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.
Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.
Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.
Ongoing and Extended Support Options
American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.
For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.
For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.
Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty. Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
How do you test and recondition the equipment?
Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality. We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.
How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?
We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.
Return and order cancellation policy
American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.
Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?
Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.
How does your price matching policy work?
We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.
Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?
Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.
1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.
Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?
Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.
