Scaling

Scaling is a measure of how many microns a pixel represents. Scaling may be different for each axis and is automatically defined for the X and Y axes of each lens when you calibrate the system (Calibration overview). If you're working with an image stack, the Z scaling (also known as the Z step) is equal to the distance between images.

Scaling is embedded for:

• Images acquired on a properly calibrated MBF Bioscience system and saved in an MBF Bioscience format (e.g., MBF .TIF or MBF .JP2).
• Multiple third-party image formats (e.g., ICS/IDS, LIF, and LSM).

 

Scaling is generally NOT embedded for TIFF files. Make sure that the proper scaling is applied to obtain valid measurements.

How do I apply the proper scaling?

You need to know the scaling used at the time of acquisition.

1. Load the image. The Image Scaling dialog box opens.
   1. Check the Override X and Y scaling checkbox.
   2. Under Source of Scaling, select User Specified.
   3. Enter the correct values for X and Y.
2. You're prompted to define a new lens. Click Yes.
3. The program displays an alert. Click Yes.
4. The Create Lens from Image File dialog box appears.

   Make adjustments as needed.

 

Tracing from images without the correct scaling may result in invalid data.

 

See Creating a lens or Creating a new lens from an image