Indexed Grids Graticule

Squares and Grids

Note: These scales may need to be calibrated, according to intended use. There are a number of uses for the grids and squares listed and they will largely depend on the individual user's application.

Eyepiece Scales

• Sectoring: A squared graticule might be used for the systematic examination of a specimen. Some of the squared patterns are numbered to aid in the identification of areas of interest. Sectioning is particularly useful for making drawings of specimens onto graph paper. The chess-board type of pattern helps the user to distinguish the position being examined: the darker squares are translucent, while the lighter ones are transparent, avoiding eyestrain in prolonged counting as may be necessary in hematology. These patterns provide the same advantages when used with image analysis and capture devices.
• Counting: A squared graticule can be used for counting. Here, the basic principle is that a small area of the specimen is analyzed in order to obtain information about the total area. This minimizes wasteful work, enabling simple analysis of a paricular area. An example of this would be the comparison of large to small particles in a specimen. By using the Miller graticule (NE57) only the smaller particles in the small square are counted, the result being multiplied by ten for comparison with the number of larger particles in the large square.
• Squared Grids: Squared grids can be used in particle size analysis as simple technical aids where sophisticated image analysis systems are not required. The areas of the particles to be measured can be estimated by simply counting the number of squares occupied by those particles. It is necessary to estimate fractions of a square or make a rule (e.g. count as a square all partly covered squares at the right and bottom sides of the grid, and ignore partly covered squares at the left and upper sides of the squares). This method would only be useful for a fairly crude estimation of a large diameter.

Indexed Grids - NE10A, NE11A, NE34A, NE71

Useful for particle counting, particularly when reference is needed between workers. Also, they are useful for area of specimen determinations.